I’ve been with MSC for the last 4 years since I retired from the Navy. It’s 4 years I’ll never get back and need something better than spending 8-10 months a year gone from my family. I’m currently sailing 3rd Assistant Engineer. I’m looking at Chouest as most people have a favorable opinion of them. Anything has to be better than 120/30!
I work for Harvey instead of Eco and on the deck side. I went from MSC to hear last year and found it was a pretty easy move. Things move at a much slower pace. I doubt you’ll have a problem gettin a job at ECO…but If that doesn’t work out…Harvey has a huge need for more engineers.
Harvey’s in desperate need of mates as well if anyone out there is looking around.
[QUOTE=acdcrocks73;96492]Thanks SeaScoundrel. I’m planning my escape from here. I want to get out before I get too much time invested. Appreciate the ifo.[/QUOTE]
Another option would be to join MEBA. There is some sort of clause that allows MSC guys in without paying the 4k initiation fee. There are a lot of 2nds and 3rds jobs these days. Even more 1st jobs. Its not the GOM 30/30 but usually its between 60 and 90 off and on. Day for day you will make a lot more than MSC as well.
I think after we start paying dues to MEBA and sail 300+ days we can get get our Book II or something to that effect. I was thinking of going union, just want to explore all my options. MSC just wears you down mentally and need to find something better. Again thanks for the info.
[QUOTE=acdcrocks73;96492]Thanks SeaScoundrel. I’m planning my escape from here. I want to get out before I get too much time invested. Appreciate the ifo.[/QUOTE]
I got out MSC in 1985 and never regretted it. More money/ less bullshit/ you are what you are/ the US merchant marine will judge you, if you are a fuck up the rest of the US Merchant fleet will know. There are maybe 2K of us out here and we all know each others reputatation.