Shipping Industry

Read Martide's blog for everything to do with the shipping industry. Finding jobs at sea advice, seafarer job vacancies, maritime news and more.

Women in Maritime: The Stats You Need to Know

Women in Maritime: The Stats You Need to Know

March 8th was International Women’s Day which got us thinking about the roles women play, within the maritime industry, and at some of the stats.

Nautical Terms That Begin with the Letters G, H & I

If you’re a regular reader of our posts, you have probably already stumbled upon our nautical glossary posts in which we cover different maritime terms and phrases. We’re now almost halfway through the alphabet so today’s post is going to take a look at our shipping dictionary from G through to I.

Everything You Need to Know About Mining Ships

In this post we’re going to be taking a look at one of the lesser known merchant ships: The mining vessel. So if you’ve ever sat down and Googled “what is a mining ship” or “what is a mining vessel” you’re in luck!

What Seafarers Can Expect From a Professional Manning Agency

Unfortunately there are too many unscrupulous companies out there posing as maritime recruitment agencies, manning agents or crewing agencies whose sole purpose is to rip off seafarers

Everything You Need to Know About Shipping Containers

Ever wanted to know absolutely everything there is to know about the humble shipping container? You're in luck - as this blog reveals all!

What are Aids to Navigation in Maritime?

What are Aids to Navigation (ATONs) in the maritime industry - and why should seafarers always be mindful of them? Let’s find out!

How ECDIS Transformed the Maritime Industry

Today, navigation is aided by technology. If you’re pinpointing locations or accessing directions, there’s a high chance you’re using an Electronic Chart Display and Information System AKA ECDIS.

Interesting Facts about Modern Maritime Transport

You might be surprised to know how maritime transport started with hollowed logs in ancient times and turned into the behemoth ships that we have today.

What is the STCW & Why Do Seafarers Need It?

If you’re considering entering the merchant navy, you’ll probably hear the initials STCW a lot throughout training. But what do they actually mean?

What Factors Affect Container Ship Capacity?

Containers are an integral part of shipping and logistics. They are used to transport a wide range of goods around the world, ranging from consumer goods like electronics and clothing to industrial goods like machinery and raw materials.

What Happens in a Seafarer Medical Examination?

The examination concentrates on a person’s health before they accept a job role. At the same time, fit-for-work testing emphasizes the person’s functional capabilities in relation to the demands and dangers of a particular profession.

What is a Seaman’s Book & Why is it Important?

A seaman’s book, also known as a seaman's record book or service book, is a continuous record of your service as a seafarer – containing details of where, when, how, and which vessel you have served on.

Sea Freight vs Air Freight: How Do They Differ?

The coming and going of merchandise and commodities from one place to another are often done either via sea or air. These are the fastest options for productive and profitable commerce.

What is Dry Docking & Why Do Ships Do It?

Every machine needs regular maintenance, repairs, and upkeep to operate efficiently. The procedure used for routinely maintaining and repairing ships, boats, and other watercraft is called dry docking.

What is Marine Salvage?

Marine salvage is the process of retrieving, rescuing, and repairing a ship – saving also its crew, cargo, and other properties – after a shipwreck or any other maritime accidents.

Nautical Terms That Begin with the Letters E & F

If you’re curious to find out the meanings of some more weird and wonderful words to do with shipping, sailing, seafarer jobs, merchant navy ranks and vessels, keep on reading as we explore some nautical words that start with E and F.

What are Places of Refuge for Ships in Distress?

The primary priority when a ship is involved in an accident or cannot continue its voyage is to remove the vessel, crew, and cargo from harm's way while avoiding further damage to the environment. But where would they go? Who should help them?

What is Coastal Shipping?

Shipping plays an important role in global trade, however, not all transport of goods happens overseas – that’s where coastal shipping comes into the picture. When we talk about coastal shipping, we refer to the shipping of goods (or in some cases, passengers) within a country.

What Are Some Different Types of Merchant Navy Ships?

There are numerous types of boats and ships plying their trade across the world’s oceans, from small pleasure craft to fishing boats and from superyachts to warships. Here at Martide, we’re interested in the types of ships you’ll find in the merchant navy.

Sea Trials: The Importance of Putting Ships to the Test

You might have heard of 'sea trials'. But what are sea trials, why are they important and what do they actually involve? At sea, there are any number of factors affecting a voyage so it's crucial for shipowners to be prepared for anything. And this is where sea trials come into play.

Nautical Terms That Begin with the Letter D

If you’ve been checking out our other blog posts about nautical terms, you might be interested in this post which covers maritime words and phrases that begin with the letter D. So let’s take a look at everything from DWT and davits to dunnage and duty!

Everything You Need to Know About Fishing Vessels

We all know a fishing vessel is a boat used to catch fish, whether that’s on the sea, a lake or a river. It goes without saying that fishing boats vary in size and complexity, but what you might not know is that they can be broken down into a number of main categories and then subcategories.

Everything You Need to Know About Fireboats

The water-based or offshore cousin to a fire engine or fire truck, the fireboat is a vessel that has onboard equipment, such as nozzles, hoses and pumps, that are used to fight and extinguish fires both on other ships, as well as along the coastline, on docks and in ports and warehouses.

What is RoRo Cargo?

The cargo on RoRo ships is literally rolled or driven inside using a wide stern ramp or bow - unlike other ships that use cranes to lift the cargo on or off the vessel. Also, RoRo ships carry both vehicles and freight cargo, though some are also used as passenger ferries.

Nautical Terms That Begin with the Letter C

There are so many different shipping terms out there that we thought it was time we wrote a blog post that dives into them. But because there are so many nautical words and maritime phrases, we decided that the best way to do this was by one letter at a time. Let's check out the letter C!

World Maritime Day 2022

In case you somehow didn’t know, September 29th is World Maritime Day. A day that is celebrated at the end of September every year in honor of all of those men and women who work in seafarer jobs and ashore in the shipping industry. But what is this year’s theme and what is its purpose?

How Does an Icebreaker Ship Work?

The icebreaker ship does precisely what it sounds: it breaks ice. Ice breakers make navigation through the ice-covered waterways, particularly in the Polar Regions, doable, as the ship cuts through even the thickest ice and opens up some of the most hostile global paths.

Nautical Terms That Begin with the Letter A

There are so many different shipping terms out there that we thought it was time we wrote a blog post that dives into them. But because there are so many nautical words and maritime phrases, we decided that the best way to do this was by one letter at a time. Let's kick things off with the letter A!

Everything You Need to Know About Supramax Vessels

Aside from container ships, one of the most commonly spotted vessels at sea is the bulk carrier. Unlike container ships which transport goods in - you guessed it - shipping containers, bulk carriers carry loose cargo in huge (bulk) quantities. A Supramax vessel is a type of bulk carrier.

Everything You Need to Know About Car Carrier Ships

A car carrier or car carrier ship is a vessel that’s been designed for the transportation of either just cars, or a combination of cars, trucks, buses and other wheeled vehicles. Car carriers are a type of RoRo ships - which means Roll-On, Roll-Off, as this is how their cargo is loaded and unloaded.

Everything You Need to Know About Ferries

Ferries are mainly known as a type of boat that transports passengers from one place to another, and, usually, back again. They have more in common with a bus or train than a cruise ship as their main purpose is to provide passengers with transportation for a reason rather than for leisure.

Nautical Terms That Begin with the Letter B

There are so many different shipping terms out there that we thought it was time we wrote a blog post that dives into them. But because there are so many nautical words and maritime phrases, we decided that the best way to do this was by one letter at a time. Let's check out the letter B!

November 5th is World Tsunami Awareness Day

Each year, November 5th is World Tsunami Awareness Day. With that being two days from now, we thought it would be a timely opportunity to look at the origins of this day, find out more about tsunamis, and see what you can do to observe this day.

Everything You Need to Know About Cruise Ships

A cruise ship is a passenger ship that sails to a number of different destinations. The pleasure of the voyage being the point. Cruise ships are synonymous with being luxury vessels & their amenities, activities, dining options & entertainment are all created with the passenger experience in mind

Everything You Need to Know About Dredgers

A dredger is a boat equipped with a tool that sucks, excavates or scrapes sediment like sand, silt, gravel, trash, rocks, debris and animal and plant matter from the sea bed or a river, estuary or canal. The materials moved are placed elsewhere or disposed of in an act known as dredging.

Everything You Need to Know About Gas Carrier Ships

A gas carrier ship, also known as a gas tanker, LPG/LNG tanker or LPG/LNG carrier is a vessel that has been designed specifically for the purpose of carrying bulk quantities of liquefied petroleum gasses (LPG) or liquefied natural gasses (LNG) from one destination to another.

Everything You Need to Know About Crane Vessels

As you have probably guessed from its name, a crane vessel - also known as a floating crane, crane ship or heavy lift vessel - is an ocean-going vessel which has one or more cranes mounted on to it. These gigantic ships are incredibly powerful and can handle extremely heavy loads.

Everything You Need to Know About Chemical Tankers

A chemical tanker is a type of cargo ship that has been specifically constructed, or adapted, to carry liquid chemicals in bulk. They are the main form of transport when it comes to moving the commodities that provide the world with its energy requirements from point A to point B.

Everything You Need to Know About Heavy Lift Vessels

A heavy lift vessel (HLV) is a huge freight ship designed to carry cargo that goes above and beyond the size and weight of the kind of items usually found on a container ship. Think: Dredging equipment, floating dry docks and plants, drilling rigs, offshore structures and even other vessels.

Everything You Need to Know About Bulk Carriers

A bulk carrier, bulker, or bulk freighter is a type of merchant ship that transports dry goods in bulk that are not packed into containers, drums or other packaging. We’re talking about cargo such as grain, cement, coal, ore and even sugar.

Everything You Need to Know About Oil Tankers

A tanker is a ship that transports liquid cargo in bulk. It doesn’t use containers or barrels but stores the liquid in a hold. The majority of tankers carry oil, hence the name, however some tankers also move edible oils and other liquified food stuffs such as treacle/molasses and drinks like wine.

Everything You Need to Know About Feeder Vessels

A feeder vessel is a medium size container ship. Its job is to collect shipping containers from a port and transport them to transhipment hubs or central container terminals so they can be loaded onto larger vessels to complete their journey or onto other vehicles so they can be transported inland.

Everything You Need to Know About Icebreaker Ships

As the name suggests, an icebreaker ship is a vessel that has been designed to...break ice. Specifically so that other vessels have a clear path through icy and frozen waters. This enables trade to keep moving and stops the global supply chain grinding to a halt.

Everything You Need to Know About Cargo & Container Ships

Ever wondered what the difference between a cargo and a container ship is? Ever wanted to know exactly what a cargo ship is and whether or not there are different types of cargo and container ships? You’ve come to the right place! Join us as we take a deep dive.

Your Guide to Seafarer Jobs & Joining the Merchant Navy

Traditionally working in a seafarer job is seen as something of a romantic choice: Running away to join the merchant navy is the stuff of legends. But seaman work is a very real job. In fact it’s not just a job or a career; you could say it’s also a lifestyle. But how do you join the merchant navy?

Everything You Need to Know About Lightships

A lightship, or lightvessel, is a ship fitted with a beacon on a mast that functions in the same way as a lighthouse: To act as a warning and to help other vessels safely navigate at night or in fog. Lightships are commonly used in waters that are too deep for a lighthouse to be constructed.

Everything You Need to Know About RoRo Ships

Do you want to know what a RoRo ship is? If so, you’ve come to the right place. RoRo stands for roll-on / roll-off which means it’s a vessel that has been designed to carry wheeled cargo: Think cars, vans, trailers, busses and trucks. Anything that can be ‘rolled on and then rolled off’ the ship.

15 Essential Websites if You Work in a Seafarer Job

If you work in a seafarer job you use the internet to look for jobs at sea, for finding seafarer training and new employers and manning agents who can help you find a new contract. And for all the other things to do with your maritime career! So here are 15 of the best websites for seafarers.

9 Fascinating Facts About Shipping & Geography

We were recently thinking about interesting maritime facts, and in particular, ones that are connected to geographical places such as countries, cities or landmarks. So without further ado here are 9 of our favorite fascinating facts about an assortment of maritime and geographical related topics!

Your Guide to Types of Boats, Yachts, Ships & Vessels

It’ll come as no surprise that there’s a whole host of different boats, ships, vessels, and other watercraft out there. From the smallest canoe to traditional sailing clippers and from cargo ships to icebreakers and fishing boats, there’s no end of topics to explore. Which is what we’re going to do!

Now Hiring Seafarers with LNG Experience for Jobs at Sea

Are you a seafarer with experience in jobs at sea that include working on LNG fueled ships? If so you’re in high demand! As a greener cleaner energy Liquified Natural Gas is changing the future of the maritime industry. And seafarers who have the expertise will see their popularity rise!

World Maritime Day 2021

In case you somehow missed it, September 30th is World Maritime Day. A day that is designed to honor, offer thanks, and recognize all of those who work in jobs at sea. But what is World Maritime Day, what is this year’s theme, and what is the end goal?

What is a Stowaway on a Ship?

Ever since ships began trading internationally there have been people seeking a better life for themselves, or fleeing war or persecution - but who don’t have the financial means. But recently the problem is increasing as more people are willing to take the very real risks involved in stowing away.

4 Reasons Why There Are So Few Women in Seafarer Jobs

It’s no secret shipping has a high ratio of men to women in seafarer jobs. Much can be blamed on the traditional mindset of a male dominated industry. But what other causes are there for a female seaman being such a rare sight? Martide take a look at some reasons.

Day of the Seafarer 2021

Just in case you somehow missed it, June the 25th is the Day of the Seafarer as organized by the IMO. The campaign is now in its eleventh year and as you also most likely know, each year the campaign has had a different theme, with this year’s theme being a “Fair Future for Seafarers”.

Who is Supporting Women Seafarers in Jobs at Sea?

Why does the maritime industry have a skills shortage? The increasing need for seafarers with tech skills? A general disinterest in seafaring as a job? The lack of women entering the sector? The reasons are debatable but it’s clear the ratio of men to women in maritime is seriously disproportionate.

What Are Entry Level Cargo Ship Jobs?

Entry level cargo ship jobs are roles in the maritime industry undertaken by trainee seafarers and cadets. Seafaring isn’t a career in which you jump in at any level; you need to start at the bottom and work your way up. Our blog post explores different seafarer jobs and how to start a career at sea

Will Autonomous Ships Signal the End of Seafarer Jobs?

Autonomous ships and smart ships are buzzwords that have been doing the rounds in the maritime industry recently. And it’s not surprising that many have expressed concern for the future of seafarer jobs. But the rise of self sailing ships doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the mariner. Here’s why.

How to Stay Safe Online in Jobs at Sea

When even some of the biggest and best known companies in the world have fallen victim to cyber attacks from hackers, it pretty much means that none of us are safe - and that's both on a business and a personal level. If you're working in jobs at sea, here's how to stay safe online.

Day of the Seafarer 2020

25th June 2020 marks the 10th anniversary of IMO’s annual Day of the Seafarer. In recognition of these demanding times the worries that the maritime industry is facing, and of course, in particular the challenges that seafarers are dealing with, the theme this year is Seafarers are Key Workers.

What You Need to Include On Your Seafarer Resume

Writing a seafarer resume that helps you stand out from the crowd is important if you want an employer or maritime recruitment agency to contact you instead of another similarly qualified seafarer hunting for the same seaman job vacancy as you. We take a look at what you need to include in yours.

5 Ways to Upgrade Your Soft Skills for Shore Based Maritime Jobs

Moving to shore based maritime jobs can be a daunting prospect if you’ve spent years working in traditional seafarer jobs. Your to-do list of things to consider and do can be as long as your arm! And one big thing to think about is how the skills you’ve gained at sea will transfer to a job ashore.

Your Ultimate Guide to Maritime Jobs in Seaports

A closer look at jobs in seaports. We’ll cover what kind of maritime jobs there are in ports. What skills are needed. What training and qualifications you should have. If you're thinking about starting a career in marine jobs ashore or leaving the ocean for good read this first.

The Evolution of the Maritime Industry & Jobs at Sea

One of the most obvious advances in maritime technology is the magnetic compass. And we can’t help but wonder if any of the mariners of yesteryear were as opposed to this ‘new fangled’ piece of equipment when it was introduced as some seafarers are to modern technology!

Everything You Need to Know About Chief Marine Engineer Jobs

This blog post aims to give you an insider look into being a chief marine engineer and it is one in a series of articles in which Martide takes a look at just some of the many seafarer jobs.

Day of the Seafarer 2019

This year’s World Maritime Day theme is Empowering Women in the Maritime Community and so at Martide we thought it was only right to draw some attention to all of you women who are making their mark in this male dominated industry.

Tips to Read Before Switching to a Shore Based Maritime Job

A career in the maritime industry doesn’t have to mean working at sea. If you’re thinking of making the transition to one of the many maritime jobs on shore, you might be feeling a little trepidation. We take a look at how to make the leap from a seafaring job to working permanently ashore.

Life on a Container Ship: A Shore-Based Employee's Week at Sea

Do you see yourself living life on a container ship? Are you considering a career in the maritime industry? Maybe you just want to know what life on a vessel is like? Our office-based coworker recently spent a week on a cargo ship and this is a unique insight into day-to-day life at sea.

Why Are Vessels Scrapped & What Happens to Them?

In the maritime industry champagne bottle smashings are used to mark the birth of new ships but the fate of retired ships is rarely discussed.