seatime

Seatime, or sea time, is the period a mariner spends aboard ships performing duties at sea. It represents practical, on‑the‑job experience that is used to demonstrate competence and to qualify for licenses, endorsements, and career advancement within the maritime industry.

In most jurisdictions, a prescribed amount of sea time is a core element of licensing requirements for deck and engineering officers. These requirements are tied to international standards such as the STCW framework and are intended to ensure mariners have sufficient real‑world experience before taking on supervisory or specialized roles. The exact time needed and the license class involved vary by country and vessel type.

Seatime is earned by serving on merchant ships, ferries, fishing vessels, and other seafaring platforms in positions related to the license being pursued. It is typically recorded in official documents such as discharge books or certificates of sea service and is verified by former employers, crewing agencies, or flag‑state authorities. Some vessels or duties may count toward certain licenses but not others, and the admissibility of time can depend on the vessel’s type and the performer’s specific duties.

Documentation and verification are essential, as gaps or disputes can affect licensing or promotion. Mariners often rely on ship captains, human resources departments, and training institutions to certify their sea time. Clear records help ensure a seamless path from training to certification and advancement in the maritime profession.