A Popularity Wave For Careers At Sea
The world is a big place. With diverse landscapes, societies, and languages to explore, it’s hard to narrow down the number of different careers you could choose from. Fortunately for those aspiring to travel though, there are plenty of options out there for what would otherwise be a silent career at sea. It’s your time to shine and make your mark on the world – from one of these occupations:
1. Boat Captains
The best options for those wanting to get a job at sea are those working for cruise companies, tour operators or similar commercial businesses. These positions offer you a sizeable salary, good working conditions and opportunities to travel the world (which can also mean you can lead expeditions). There are far fewer reputable companies to choose from than you might expect, but they tend to offer great salaries, benefits and working conditions – particularly if you can show that you have relevant experience.
2. Oceanographers
For a professional maritime career, you may want to look into the role of oceanographer. There are plenty of positions open in this field and as such you can tend to get a pretty good salary too, along with fairly stable working conditions. Much like boat captains, there are many reputable companies out there that offer similar benefits and opportunities to work on oceanographic expeditions.
3. A Crew Member On A Cruise Ship
If you’re not just interested in working at sea, but actually want to see the world too then you may want to consider a career as a crew member on a cruise ship. There are numerous types of roles that can be filled on a cruise ship, from chefs and waiters to entertainers and dancers – meaning that all different types of personality or skill set can fit in. Use some of your seafaring knowledge to work your way up the ranks and become an officer in this industry, offering you even more opportunities to explore the world.
4. Ship's Engineer
If you’re interested in ships and the ocean, then a career as a ship’s engineer could be for you. While the work may not be quite as rough and tumble as you might expect, there are still plenty of hours to spend on watch, many hours to spend on maintenance tasks and some nights spent at sea. This is just one more step on your route to becoming a captain.
5. Marine Electronics Engineering Technician
If you're interested in vessels and their systems then perhaps you'll take to the seas as an electronics engineer who maintains these systems aboard ships. This is a role that pays well, as it is based in the US and has good prospects. There are less opportunities than you might expect, so it may be tough to get your foot in the door – but if you can, then you’re likely to have a great career.
6. Culinary Jobs Abroad
If you love to cook and have a passion for food then perhaps consider getting involved in a career in hospitality abroad? There are plenty of companies out there offering culinary tours that will allow you to settle down in one country or region and develop your skills as a chef, with little need for travel unless you want to.
7. Chef
If you love to cook and are ready to develop your skills internationally then perhaps consider a career as a chef. Responsible for all the cooking and food preparation as well as managing guest expectations, you’ll be kept busy but will enjoy working on various projects.
8. Butler To A Middle-Class Family In The UK Or The US
If you love the finer things in life and have a passion for helping others, then this is your dream job. You’ll be responsible for making sure that your employers are comfortable, happy and well-fed – along with looking after their homes, cars and more. This is the perfect role for someone who wants to live a comfortable life abroad.
9. Hotel Manager Or Resort Manager
If you have an eye for design, business and a passion for customer service then perhaps you’ll take to this career? You’ll be responsible for managing every aspect of client interaction at the hotel or resort in question, as well as its financial performance and growth. It’s a large undertaking but could offer you excellent benefits.
10. Lifeguard
A simple job that you’ll likely enjoy and benefit from, this position will allow you to travel the world and make sure people have a great time at the same time. If you want to get involved in adventure travel then this is also a great way to do so.
11. Marine Biologist
If you love the ocean and are passionate about marine biology then perhaps this is a career for you? You'll be able to live in a very different environment than you'd find at sea, with the chance to focus on marine science and research during your career. Plus, many companies like us offer excellent benefits, good salaries and opportunities to travel around the world during your working years.
12. Diving Instructor
Spend your days working on diving expeditions in exotic locations and enjoy the great, outdoor life. You'll have plenty of time to get involved in a variety of different projects, in and out of the water during your career. Good pay, benefits and opportunities to travel and explore make this an excellent choice for you.
13. French Translator
If your passion lies with languages, then consider a career as a translator – particularly if you learn French in school. There are plenty of translation agencies out there that will allow you to take up a job as a translator on the side while you explore the world doing something else full time. This is also one of the best ways to earn money while living abroad.
14. Nautical Oceanographer
If you're a marine biology lover with a passion for science, then you may want to consider becoming an oceanographer. Work with scientists and biologists who are trying to discover the mysteries of the oceans and other bodies of water. You'll maintain various ships, equipment and research in this field, as well as getting involved in any seafaring expeditions that can be arranged by the time you start your career.
15. Certified Yacht Charter Manager (CYCM)
If you love the sea and are looking for one of the best ways to learn about it then consider a career as a yacht charter manager (CYCM).
Conclusion
If you’re wondering how to get a job in the marine industry, then hopefully our list of jobs above will offer some inspiration. There are plenty of roles available, and even if you don’t think you fit with any of them right now, this can serve as an excellent guide for when you’re looking for your next career move. The world is your oyster!
For more great stories, check out our articles on freelance travel writing and career opportunities abroad.
If you have any feedback about these jobs or others that we didn't include in this article please email us at info@voagc.