Table of Contents
Introduction
For decades, the Merchant Navy was seen as a man’s world — tough seas, long voyages, and male-dominated crews. But times have changed. Today, more and more girls are joining the Merchant Navy, commanding ships, managing engine rooms, and proving that the sea is for everyone.
This guide explains how girls can join the Merchant Navy, covering eligibility, courses, scholarships, top colleges, and inspiring success stories of women who broke maritime barriers.
Why Should Girls Join the Merchant Navy?
1. Equal Pay and Opportunity
In the Merchant Navy, gender makes no difference in salary or promotion. Pay is based purely on rank and skill. Whether you are a Deck Officer, Marine Engineer, or Electro-Technical Officer, you’ll earn the same as your male colleagues doing the same job.
2. Transparent Career Growth
Promotions depend solely on performance, certification, and sea time. A dedicated woman cadet can rise from trainee to Captain or Chief Engineer, just like any man at sea.
3. Global Travel and Exposure
A career in the Merchant Navy for girls means working with international crews, docking at global ports, and experiencing multiple cultures — something few other jobs can offer.
4. Breaking Stereotypes
Every woman who joins the Merchant Navy helps redefine what leadership looks like at sea. These trailblazers are changing perceptions and proving that women can handle the challenges of maritime life with skill and strength.
Difference Between Merchant Navy and Indian Navy
It’s essential to understand that the Merchant Navy is not the same as the Indian Navy.
- The Indian Navy is a defense force responsible for national security.
- The Merchant Navy operates commercial ships that transport cargo and passengers internationally.
For girls who love travel, want independence, and seek a high-paying, adventurous career, the Merchant Navy is a rewarding choice.
Eligibility Criteria for Girls to Join Merchant Navy
Girls must meet the same academic and physical requirements as boys.
Educational Qualification
- Deck Cadet: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with at least 60% marks.
- Marine Engineering: 10+2 with PCM and English, minimum 60% in PCM and 50% in English.
- DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science): 10+2 PCM or a B.Sc. degree in Physics, Chemistry, or Math (with Physics in at least one year).
Age Limit
- Minimum: 17.5 years
- Maximum: 25 years (with limited relaxation in special cases).
Medical and Physical Fitness
- 6/6 eyesight (without glasses) for Deck Officers.
- No color blindness.
- Must meet DG Shipping medical standards for height, weight, and hearing.
Step-by-Step Process for Girls to Join Merchant Navy
Step 1: Choose Science Stream After 10th
Select Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in 11th and 12th to qualify for maritime courses.
Step 2: Appear for IMU-CET
The Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET) is mandatory for admission to top maritime colleges.
Step 3: Pick the Right Course
Based on your interest:
- B.Sc. in Nautical Science (3 years) – For Deck Officer roles.
- B.Tech in Marine Engineering (4 years) – For Engine Department.
- DNS (1 year) – A shorter path to becoming a navigating officer.
Step 4: Apply to DG-Shipping Approved Colleges
Always ensure the institution is approved by DG Shipping, Government of India, to ensure valid certification and placements.
Step 5: Get Sponsorship
Apply to shipping companies for sponsorship exams. A sponsored candidate is guaranteed on-board training (job placement) after completing the course.
Step 6: Complete Pre-Sea Training
This training builds discipline, physical strength, and technical knowledge before boarding a vessel.
Step 7: Begin Sea Training
After pre-sea completion, join a ship as a trainee for real-world learning.
Step 8: Appear for Certificate of Competency (CoC)
After sufficient sea service, appear for the CoC exam to become a certified officer and start progressing through the ranks.
Career Options for Girls in Merchant Navy
The Merchant Navy offers multiple pathways for women across departments:
- Deck Officer – Navigation, cargo handling, and watchkeeping
- Marine Engineer – Overseeing ship machinery and power systems.
- Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) – Managing electrical and automation systems.
- Catering & Hospitality Staff – Managing ship kitchens and accommodation.
After gaining sea experience, many women transition into shore-based careers like port operations, maritime law, logistics, or teaching at maritime academies.
Also Read: Career in Merchant Navy: Courses, Salary, Scope & Eligibility in India
Scholarships for Girls Joining Merchant Navy
To support female candidates, several shipping companies and institutions offer full or partial scholarships.
1. BW LPG India & Indian Maritime University
- Full scholarships for B.Tech, B.Sc Nautical Science, and DNS courses.
- Includes stipends, certifications, and assured placements.
2. Wilhelmsen Ship Management with MANET Pune
- 100% sponsorship for 20 girl cadets from financially weaker backgrounds.
- Covers coaching, training, and job assistance.
3. Maersk Women Cadet Program
- Conducted with AMET University.
- Offers scholarships, international exposure, and job placements.
4. HIMT College Scholarships
- ₹25,000 scholarship for girl cadets.
- Additional ₹1,00,000 support from Maritime Training Trust (MTT).
These scholarships help aspiring female seafarers pursue their dream careers without worrying about tuition or training costs.
Top Maritime Colleges That Welcome Female Students
Here are some reputed DG Shipping-approved institutes known for their inclusivity and training quality:
- Indian Maritime University (IMU) – All campuses.
- Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune.
- Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy, Karjat.
- Samundra Institute of Maritime Studies, Lonavala.
- International Maritime Institute (IMI), Noida.
- HIMT College, Chennai.
- AMET University, Chennai.
These colleges provide specialized support systems, mentorship, and safe campus environments for women cadets.
Notable Indian Women in the Merchant Navy
- Captain Radhika Menon: She made history by becoming the first female captain of the Indian Merchant Navy. In 2016, she also received the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea. Her leadership and courage during a life-saving rescue operation in the Bay of Bengal set a global example.
- Reshma Nilofer Naha: India’s first woman marine pilot, she expertly navigates some of the largest and most complex vessels through the hazardous waters of the Hooghly River. Her sharp skills and precision have earned her national recognition and admiration.
- Captain Surekha S: Among India’s pioneering female captains, she commanded international vessels at a time when very few women were seen at sea. She has also been instrumental in training and mentoring new cadets, actively promoting women’s inclusion in maritime careers.
- Captain Nidhi Sharma: One of the youngest Indian women to attain the rank of captain, she is also a vocal advocate for gender equality in shipping. Her powerful presence on social platforms and in conferences inspires young girls to consider maritime careers.
- Shilpa Bhosale: A trailblazing Chief Engineer, she climbed up the ranks in the engine department, traditionally dominated by men. She has become a beacon for girls interested in engineering, showing that women can excel in technical maritime roles.
- Captain Preeti Sinha: An alumna of TS Chanakya, she has served on various international ships and currently mentors aspiring cadets. Her guidance and commitment to sharing knowledge make her a valued figure in the maritime community.
- Ankita Nandwani: The first Indian woman to become a Third Engineer aboard Maersk Line vessels. She shares her journey and daily experiences onboard via social media, helping demystify maritime careers for many young women.
- Aishwarya Borde: Among the youngest Indian women to complete her mandatory sea time and ascend the deck officer ranks swiftly, she proves that determination and discipline can lead to rapid career advancement at sea.
These women proved that leadership, courage, and intelligence—not gender—define success in the Merchant Navy career for women.
Challenges Faced by Girls in Merchant Navy
While progress is significant, there are still hurdles:
- Limited female representation onboard (though improving yearly).
- Adjusting to months of isolation and long voyages
- Physical endurance and adaptability to harsh sea conditions.
- Navigating traditional mindsets in certain regions.
However, modern shipping companies are actively promoting gender inclusion through policies, mentorship, and onboard safety standards.
Final Thoughts
Joining the Merchant Navy for girls isn’t just about earning a paycheck—it’s about leadership, confidence, and breaking barriers. Today’s maritime world needs skilled, resilient, and ambitious women to balance its workforce and drive progress.
With equal pay, global exposure, and growing industry support, the Merchant Navy career for women is no longer an exception—it’s a rising trend.
If you have the courage to embrace the waves, the Merchant Navy will welcome you aboard.
