Crewing FAQs
Looking for your next contract at sea? Whether you're an Officer, Engineer, or Rating, finding the right role in crewing can raise questions. From certifications to joining times, we’ve answered the most common queries to support your job search. Explore our FAQs and learn more about working with an MLC-compliant maritime crewing agency.
What types of commercial vessels do you recruit for?
At Faststream Recruitment, we specialise in crewing for a wide range of commercial vessels. We regularly place crew on:
- Oil, Chemical, and Gas Tankers
- Container Ships
- Bulk Carriers
- Offshore Support and Supply Vessels (OSVs)
- Heavy-Lift and Project Cargo Vessels
- Dredgers
- FPSOs (Floating Production Storage and Offloading)
- FSRUs (Floating Storage Regasification Units)
- Tugs and Workboats
- Ferries and Ro-Ro Vessels
Whether you’re an Officer or part of the engine or deck crew, we recruit for global commercial shipping operations across a variety of fleet types.
Which commercial crewing positions do you hire for?
We recruit for a wide variety of commercial seafarer jobs and ranks, including:
- Master / Captain
- Chief Officer / Chief Mate
- Chief Engineer
- Second and Third Engineer
- Second and Third Officer
- ETO / Electrical Engineer
- ABs (Able Seamen)
- Bosun
- Oilers
- Cooks / Messmen
We also support junior officer roles and cadets where available.
What certificates and qualifications do I need to work on commercial vessels?
To work on commercial vessels, you typically need the following:
- A valid STCW Basic Safety Training certificate
- A recognised Certificate of Competency (COC) relevant to your rank
- GMDSS Certificate (for deck officers)
- A valid ENG1 Medical Certificate or equivalent
- A Seaman’s Book / Discharge Book
For tanker jobs, you may also need Advanced Tanker Training and endorsements for oil, chemical, or gas.
Do you offer permanent or rotational contracts for seafarers?
Yes. We place candidates on both:
- Permanent contracts (direct hire with the shipping company)
- Rotational contracts, such as 2 months on / 2 months off, 3/1, or tailored to the vessel’s operational schedule
Contract details are discussed during the recruitment process so you can make informed decisions.
How quickly can I join a vessel after being selected?
Deployment timelines vary depending on the vessel’s location, client urgency, and your availability. Some commercial crewing jobs require immediate joining, while others allow for a notice period. We also factor in:
- Medical clearances
- Visa and documentation processing
- Travel arrangements
Do I need a visa or special permits for international vessel deployment?
Yes – depending on the flag state, trading area, and port rotation, you may require:
- US C1/D Seafarer Visa
- Schengen Visa
- Seafarer Transit Visa
We’ll advise you during the process if any specific documents are required.
Is Faststream Recruitment MLC 2006 compliant?
Absolutely. Faststream Recruitment is fully compliant with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006). We follow all ethical recruitment practices and do not charge any fees to seafarers. We’re committed to safe, transparent, and fair recruitment processes.
How can I keep my seafarer profile active with Faststream?
To remain visible for upcoming crewing opportunities:
- Log in regularly to your candidate account
- Update your CV, sea-time records, and certification expiry dates
- Set up job alerts to stay informed- Stay connected with your recruitment consultant for personalised support
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