Minimum Requirements
- A higher diploma in maritime studies or equivalent is usually required
- Certificate of Competency (Deck Officer) Class 1 (Master Mariner); certificates recognised by other countries if the officer is serving on international voyages
- 12 to 24 months sea-time experience after attaining Certificate of Competency (Deck Officer) Class 2
- Pass eyesight test and undergo medical examination. Possess adequate seafaring experience and have general knowledge of a variety of subjects, including commercial practice, maritime law, meteorology, ship construction, and marine engineering. (usually start as deck cadets, a training post leading to the acquisition of Class 3 Certificate of Competency issued by the Marine Department of Hong Kong after passing the relevant exams and become deck officers. Deck officer can accumulate on board experience to obtain Certificates of Competency of higher classes and eventually attain the Master level. Require at least 18-month seatime experience for Officer in charge of Navigational Watch (for holder of a higher diploma in maritime studies). Require 12-month seatime experience for Chief Mate after attaining Class 3 Certificate of Competency.
