June 25 every year is Seafarers’ Day. It is a day reserved to recognize the hard work of all seafarers who in their line of work bring a lot of benefits to us and help in maintaining our way of life.. About 90% of the world’s goods and fuels are transported around the world by seafarers. Without Seafarers the world economy would grind to a halt.
In celebration of the annual day of the seafarers, we delved deep into the profession to highlight the importance of their journey and some challenges.
Below are the responses as they tell their personal story.
MOTIVATION FOR THE PROFESSION
During our interview with the mariners, we were interested in why they chose a career in the marine field. Majority of them mentioned financial income as the primary source of motivation for their interest in the profession. Other reasons stated were the adventure that comes with a world visit tour, the family orientation to the profession, etc.
MaritimeDigestGh: What inspired you to become a seafarer? Any sort of motivation?
“Money has to be the major motivation because it’s much more difficult to earn the same salary In Third world countries. I’d always wanted to travel around the world.” Martin Awuku (4th Engineer)
“I was inspired by my father, who spent more than 20 years at sea. Listening to his stories and the possibilities that this job brings I didn’t have any doubt about what my profession is going to be.” Ognjen Masonicic (3rd Officer)
LIFE ON BOARD A SHIP
Apparently, the seafarer’s job is dynamic and life on board ship varies. Mariners share their experiences below;
MaritimeDigestGh: What is a seafarer life like on board ships?
“These days seafarer life isn’t exciting as foretold by older seafarer generation. The workload increases with every single minute with lesser manpower for the job. Vessels are increasing in size every day and crews are reducing in numbers every day.” William Osei-Sarfo (2nd officer)
“It can be fun, tough, and boring depending on everyday situations and activities. Depends also on the colleagues around you and the individual. However, most ships now have wifi Internet access, hence making communication with home and family easier and more convenient…….but you will surely miss home and some functions to attend.
Onboard a ship, every day is a Monday.” Emmanuel Lawson (4th Officer)
CHALLENGES IN THE PROFESSION
Based on research, life on sea can be extremely dangerous. Seafarers encounter notable dangers. Some of these frightening experiences leave them suffering mental breakdown. They share few of the many situations which arise.
MaritimeDigestGh: The profession has been labeled as one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. Can you tell us some of the challenges you face?
“Working with very huge machinery, rough seas, lack of immediate medical help on open seas, extreme weather conditions just to mention a few.” Eric Mensah-Senoo (3rd Engineer)
“Personally, I believe every job comes with its own hazard and risks but what makes seafaring more challenging is the fact that you are thousands of miles away from civilization and any help. Imagine all the dangers in factories and workplaces face every day and put the same dangers miles away from land or any medical physicians to assist.” William Osei-Sarfo (2nd officer)
LESSONS SHARED
MaritimeDigestGh: Your last words to any young person who would like to make a career in this field.
“My opinion of this job is that you have to be mentally strong from the first day you start. After working hours you are not going home to your family. You are going to your cabin, you are by yourself and you need to fight to stay positive. If you win this fight, then you are ready to be a seaman. Remember, every beginning is hard!” Ognjen Masonicic (3rd Officer)
“It’s a noble profession, and the best uniform occupation……very decent salary but comes with many challenges…..if it’s what you want, go for it.
IT’S VERY LIKELY YOUR RELATIONSHIP WILL BE ON RED LIGHT IF PATIENCE AND UNDERSTANDING ARE ABSENT.” Emmanuel Lawson… (4th Officer)
“It’ll cost you a lot of family time as you’re mostly going to be away from home.” Phinehas Daggey Tee-Sowah (Electro-Technical Officer)
On that note, Maritime Digest Gh acknowledges all Seafarers around the world for their immense contribution to the economy despite the dangers, isolation, and sacrifices associated with the job.
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