A seaman’s book is a logbook that contains information about the seaman’s experience, as well as other information related to his/her license. The seaman’s book is a document that is mandatory for all seafarers. It is a record that helps keep track of all the voyages and experience of a sailor, which are very important for their future career as well as for certification and licensure reasons.
A seaman’s book contains all the details of a maritime license and other important information related to the seafarer’s work history. If a seafarer plans to change jobs or companies, or work as a freelancer for different projects, there will be a need to show the seaman’s book as it holds all the records and allows one to work at sea. This document is required by law, and all ships must carry a copy on board.
The shipping register of the country issues seaman’s books. This varies depending on the country where the vessel belongs or will operate for a specific project.
In most cases, it consists of the submission of an application form, along with valid documents such as a valid passport, photos, medical certificates, and other administrative requirements. These documents need to be verified and approved based on one’s experience at sea, training, function, project, and employer. There is also a seaman’s book fee, delivery fee, and courses fee if applicable, which vary from country to country. Seaman Solutions has created an online platform with automated forms to process seaman books. As crew certifications agents, we take care of the process from A-Z, from informing you which seaman book is suitable for your specific case and function on board of a vessel, to arranging STCW courses and online offshore medicals, technical evaluation of the documents, and arranging the courier to send the book directly to you. Apply now on the website: Register on the platform
March 21, 2025
Seaman Solutions had the privilege of attending the European Shipping Summit held on 19-20 March 2025 at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels. The event brought together European and international policymakers, industry stakeholders, unions, and NGOs for two days of in-depth discussions, networking, and high-level dialogues aimed at shaping the future of the maritime industry.
A recurring theme during the summit was the delicate balance between achieving decarbonization goals and maintaining the competitiveness of the maritime industry. Keynote speaker Melina Travlos, Chair of Neptune Group and President of the Union of Greek Shipowners, emphasized that “a green transition without a competitive industry is no transition at all." This sentiment was echoed by various speakers who stressed the need for Europe to remain competitive while pursuing sustainable shipping practices.
Another major point was the importance of skilled seafarers in driving the maritime industry forward. During a panel on geopolitics and shipping, speakers such as Prof. Paul Krugman, a Nobel Laureate, and Mr. Emanuele Grimaldi, President of Grimaldi Europees, highlighted the challenges posed by global trade tensions and stressed the importance of investing in maritime education and seafarer skills development. As Melina Travlos put it, “What truly drives our shipping are its people.”
The summit also addressed the geopolitical landscape and its impact on global shipping. Prof. Krugman pointed out the growing global trade war and risks associated with LNG delivery from the US to the EU. Meanwhile, Mr. Mohammed Chahim, MEP Vice President of S&D at the European Parliament, noted that multilateralism is under severe strain. He called for Europe to focus on competitiveness and speed up its sustainability transition.
Mr. Soren Toft, CEO of MSC, delivered a powerful keynote highlighting the shipping industry’s role in global economic growth and the need for technology to drive decarbonization. MSC has already made strides with over 150 LNG trading vessels and is exploring bio-energy and other renewable fuels. However, Mr. Toft emphasized that the cost of renewable energy remains a challenge, as customers are not yet willing to pay for it. He also called on the EU to lead the global carbon pricing discussions and support green maritime technologies.
The EU Competitiveness Study from Deloitte painted a worrying picture: EU market share in global shipping has been declining by 1% annually since the COVID-19 pandemic. The report noted that Singapore is a global leader in shipping competitiveness due to its digitalized administration, financing options, and investment in seafarer skills. Meanwhile, London is praised for its supportive legal framework and job creation, while China’s Shanghai leads in terms of low financing costs despite the political instability.
The report made four key recommendations for the EU:
In a panel on industrial competitiveness, Mr. Kurt Vandenberghe, Director-General of DG-CLIMA, discussed the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and its focus on decarbonization. He highlighted the importance of re-skilling and up-skilling the maritime workforce to prepare for the transition. This was supported by Mr. Vassilis Kikilias, Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs, who stressed the need for action and strategic investments in maritime skills development to ensure EU leadership in global shipping.
One of the standout moments was the skills challenge panel, moderated by Fortini Ioannidou, Director of DG MOVE. Key speakers, including Elpi Petraki from WISTA International and Pawel Krezel from Poland's Ministry of Infrastructure, underscored the critical shortage of maritime professionals. The panel also discussed the need for continuous learning and a holistic approach to seafarer training.
Marina Hadjimanolis, Deputy Minister of Shipping from Cyprus, pointed out that training materials must be updated, and there needs to be a roadmap for up-skilling and re-skilling seafarers to keep pace with changing industry needs.
In a fireside chat with industry leaders, Jan Dieleman, President of Cargill Ocean Transportation, emphasized the need for the shipping industry to be agile and resilient in the face of rapidly changing global trade dynamics. Ramon Fernandez, CFO of CMA-CGM, echoed this sentiment, stressing that the EU must accelerate its efforts to keep pace with global competitors and innovation funding.
Magda Kopczynska, Director-General at DG MOVE, wrapped up the summit by focusing on the future of seafarer careers. She stressed the importance of skills development and attracting new talent to the maritime industry. The EU Competitiveness Compass aims to address these issues by focusing on the right skills and creating a positive image of the maritime profession.
The EU Shipping Summit 2025 made it clear that the maritime industry faces significant challenges in terms of decarbonization, competitiveness, and workforce development. However, the event also highlighted that through collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment in skills and technology, the EU can maintain its leadership in global shipping.
As the industry moves forward, Seaman Solutions remains committed to supporting these advancements and helping maritime stakeholders adapt to new technologies, training needs, and sustainability efforts.
March 7, 2025
The maritime industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by technological advancements and evolving global demands. With challenges like crew shortages, stricter environmental regulations, and the need for advanced safety protocols, the way we train seafarers must evolve. Traditional methods are no longer enough—innovation is the key to preparing a future-ready workforce.
By 2035, 800,000 seafarers will require upskilling to meet the demands of a digital and sustainable sector (Nsflow, n.d.). At the same time, the push for carbon neutrality by 2050 makes sustainability training essential. To address these challenges, the industry is adopting immersive, accessible, and real-world-aligned training methods.
The maritime industry must embrace digital transformation to meet evolving demands. Innovations like AR/VR, AI, and interactive platforms are reshaping training, equipping seafarers with the skills needed for sustainable, tech-driven operations.
The journey ahead is complex, but with collaboration and innovation, the industry can navigate these waters successfully. The future of maritime training is here! 🚢🌍
January 2, 2025
The STCW Security Awareness Panama Course is crucial for enhancing the skills of seafarers, particularly those from India. This course plays a vital role in equipping them with the necessary knowledge and awareness to tackle modern maritime security challenges. As global trading routes become busier, the importance of skilled personnel on ships cannot be understated.
Indian seafarers stand to gain significantly from this training. It provides them with essential skills that are attractive to employers, thereby broadening their career opportunities internationally. Additionally, the certification ensures compliance with international safety standards, contributing to safer working conditions at sea.
By elevating their security awareness, Indian seafarers can better handle security situations on board, ensuring the safety of both crew and cargo. This not only boosts their confidence but also enhances their reputation in the maritime industry.
The STCW Security Awareness Panama Course is an essential training programme for seafarers without designated security duties. This course aligns with the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) regulations, ensuring that participants have the skills required to recognise and respond to security threats. Upon completion, seafarers are awarded an official certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in security awareness. This certification is crucial for those who wish to work on international vessels, adhering to global maritime safety standards.
Security awareness in the maritime industry is paramount. With the increasing complexities of global shipping, vessels face numerous threats, such as piracy, terrorism, and smuggling. Adequately trained personnel are the first line of defence against these challenges. By equipping seafarers with the right knowledge and skills, the likelihood of security incidents is greatly reduced. This not only safeguards the crew but also protects the ship and its cargo, maintaining the integrity of international shipping routes.
The STCW Security Awareness Panama Course provides numerous advantages for Indian seafarers, enhancing both their skillset and career prospects. Some of the main benefits include:
By improving their safety skills and boosting employability, Indian seafarers who complete the STCW Security Awareness Panama Course gain a significant advantage in the ever-evolving maritime industry.
Security threats at sea can be daunting, and having the right strategies is crucial for handling them effectively. Here are some key strategies seafarers use:
Training plays a pivotal role in preventing security incidents on ships. Through structured training programs like the STCW Security Awareness course, seafarers learn to understand potential risks and make informed decisions under pressure. These programs provide insights into maritime security best practices and teach effective response strategies. With comprehensive training, crew members become adept at recognising threats and implementing protective measures promptly. Such preparation significantly reduces the occurrence of incidents and contributes to a safer maritime environment.
Navigating the application and certification process for maritime courses can be challenging. Seaman Solutions offers a streamlined approach that simplifies these steps for Indian seafarers. This process ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing seafarers to focus on their training. By efficiently processing applications, Seaman Solutions enables quick access to courses, ensuring seafarers receive timely certification. This efficiency translates into less downtime and a smoother transition from training to employment.
Seaman Solutions goes beyond certification by providing valuable resources and guidance for career advancement. Indian seafarers can access a wealth of information tailored to their needs, helping them make informed decisions about their career paths. Access to expert advice and support empowers seafarers to take advantage of global opportunities, enhancing their prospects in the maritime industry. This holistic support system ensures that they are well-prepared for challenges and equipped to progress in their careers.
Seafaring is a field ripe with opportunities for growth and development. For Indian seafarers, having the right training and skills is crucial to navigating the waters of a successful maritime career. With the support and certification courses offered by Seaman Solutions, seafarers can enhance their qualifications and secure positions on international vessels.
By completing the STCW Security Awareness Panama Course and other related training modules, seafarers not only increase their employability but also ensure their safety and the safety of their crew. These courses offer practical knowledge and strategies to tackle real-world security threats, making them an indispensable part of any seafarer’s training.
Start your journey with Seaman Solutions today and take the first step towards a rewarding maritime career. Our comprehensive STCW online courses and supportive resources equip you with the skills you need to thrive at sea. Join us and become part of a global network of skilled seafarers dedicated to navigating a successful path on international waters.
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