I got my first job leaving tomorrow to work on a tug boat. The shift is 6pm-6am. Do I get to count 12hrs or 24hrs of sea time since I will be living on the boat. Do I bring a log book and have the Captain sign off on my sea time?
Thanks
Congrats on the job!
To answer your question- you will either get 1 or 1.5 days per 12 hour shift.
(Depends on several factors)
There are several threads on this- here’s one- http://gcaptain.com/forum/maritime-training-licensing/1384-12-hour-1-1-2-day-seatime.html
Try searching for “seatime”
The search function is your friend:)
Happy New Year-Anthony
12 hours. The company/Capt should give you a letter documenting your seatime when you sign-off but, keeping your own log to document time and anything else you do is smart whether the Capt signs it or not. Not sure of your situation but there may be assesments, etc. that can be signed off while you’re onboard.
Thanks. It isnt full time but its a start.
Congratulations. Maintain a positive mental attitude and willingness to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Introduce yourself to everyone you meet and try to learn their names and position. Ask to see the Station Bill and figure out where all the fire extinguishers are. Work safe. Generally, do your part and don’t be a dick. You can go as far in this industry as you are willing to go.
You will always be your own best advocate. Keep a log of your time, including Name of Vessel, Official Number, Gross Registered Tonnage, Start date, End date, Duties performed, (Stand watch?), Inland? Near Coastal? et cetera et cetera. Don’t be afraid to ask around and see how the other crew does it. I’ve seen guys keep records in their PC’s, and be able to tell how many days on which routes and tonnage at a glance. Not as a substitute for real records, however. Start a Folder to combine all your appropriate records (MMC, Sea Service records, et al…)
Come back here and let us know how your sail went.
Congratulations! Have a good trip, let us know how things go. And I second everything Trekleader says, especially the “don’t be a dick” part. Be a good shipmate. The impression you make on your first day will likely follow you through your entire career. Let us know how we can help as you move forward!
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Present a printed copy of your sea time records for your company when you ask for your service letter. It will be helpful to them so they make sure nothing is overlooked.
Excellent, excellent advice, as usual, from our regular contributors.
All new mariners would be wise to heed the preceding posts!
Im back. I was told I’d get a week but I ended up doing 2 weeks. All the other deckhands said they were told they would only get a week at first(I’m guessing probation period). I was on a 65’ tug supporting a dredge. I had a blast. We towed stiff legs and derricks and some pipe. We took a few 6hr trips to tow them. I learned a lot in the 2 weeks. I’m glad I got the experience. I was the only deckhand on the tug so it made some things difficult but we had 2 other tugs on location. I hope they call me back.