Education · 1 of 4

The path

The fastest way onto a Canadian commercial vessel. Weeks, not years.

1. 1

   Be 16 to 18 and reasonably fit

   Now

   Minimum ages vary by vessel type and employer, and the work is physical.

2. 2

   Transport Canada marine medical

   One appointment

   An approved doctor confirms you are fit for sea service. You cannot work commercially without it.

3. 3

   Safety training

   A few days to two weeks

   Marine Emergency Duties training plus marine basic first aid. Which level you need depends on the size of vessel and how far offshore it goes.

4. 4

   Get hired

   Weeks to months

   Apply to tug, ferry, barge and tour operators, or sign on at a union hiring hall. Willingness to start as a casual is the fastest way in.

5. 5

   Build sea time

   Ongoing

   Logged sea service counts toward a bridge watch rating and, later, officer certificates.