speaking up for the smaller tonnage guys down here in Brazil the minimum they are using is 200ton masters on the crewboats with American Flags. That is required because we are working international. My company only has 1 DP crewboat down here I believe so you don’t need that unless you are going to the big boats. I also am fully behind what Emerald Shellback says in that crews are the same the world over all that changes are the languages. I know its been hard to get good local mates on some boats, I have not had that problem knock wood, and yeah the logistics issue when asking for supplies can be a bit stressful. Coming down here with an open mind and hopefully overseas experience will give anyone a leg up. The fact that I had 2 buddies down here with the same company helped me out because I could pick their brains for experiences down here. But I am a convert, love it and the people.
How’s the pay down there
Awesome responses, gents.
I certainly came to the right place for advice as the majority of feedback has been reasonable and thoughtful.
I too would like to hear about the pay situation for all grades, as well as rotation schedules.
Finally, if anyone has any info as to how the situation stacks up if one wants to relocate on a mid- or long-term basis (Emerald, do you get much info from your xpat buddy?}
Thanks again and keep it coming.
Tarpaulin
Well 200 tonners are making over 400 a day. I am sure the big tonnage guys are all making over 500 at the least. I was also told 60 and 30 but this company at least tends to work with you since they have more bats than people and if you get a good boat you and your relief can usually work something out. If you think of staying and doing the expat thing here or anywhere remember you get a large chunk back at the end of the year from Uncle Sam. But you have to follow the expat rules in regards to that. @tarpaulin, I plan on staying down here and making my Base down south, I would only be going stateside once or twice a year to deal with anything like classes and family. I grew up overseas so its not that big of a change for me but it is definitely not the states, somethings are hard to get and some sacrifices will be made but in the long run I like the style of living down here, especially when you take into account US pay
I’m starting to think more and more the overseas osv thing is for me. I need to look into it a little more I think. I love being out of the country.
Hey guys
i am a young mariner that has landed in rio after a shit delivery, I have several season commercial fishing on bearing sea, and multiple long distance commercial deliveries I have a British 200ton master/ 500ton Mate. I have emailed all the offshore companies here and talked with the mariners union, have looked into work visa process. Any body down here got a good tip or maybe grab a drink?