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Commercial Shipping
required for sea-side majors
The Massachusetts Maritime Academy Commercial Shipping Program is designed to satisfy regulatory requirements for USCG licensing while reinforcing qualities important to successfully becoming a maritime seagoing professional. Commercial shipping assignments build confidence, motivation, time management and communications skills, and team interaction, while enhancing professional technical skills.
Assignments are typically for 60 days. The minimum sea service required to qualify for original license as Third Mate of Ocean, Steam or Motor Vessels of Any Gross Tons or Third Assistant Engineer of Steam and Motor Vessels, Gas Turbine, of Any Horsepower is for a period of 360 days.
Winter 2023 Commercial Shipping
Cadet Dylan Lydell, Junior (2/C) Marine Transportation (MTRA), and Cadet Patrick Pyke, Junior (2/C) Marine Engineering (MENG), engaged in their commercial shipping experience. Both had an exciting day as they attended a Disney orientation session. This orientation was in anticipation of their upcoming assignment aboard the vessel Disney Wish, where they gained practical experience in the cruise ship industry. As part of their education, Dylan and Patrick will have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge learned onboard the Disney Wish in a real-world setting upon graduation, further enhancing their skills and understanding of the maritime industry. Their participation in this program reflects the valuable hands-on training and career opportunities provided by the commercial shipping program.
Winter 2023 Commercial Shipping
Cadet Mikayla Atkins, Junior (2/C) Marine Transportation (MTRA), on board the MV Bay State, a coastwise tanker operated by Crowley Maritime. As part of her comprehensive commercial shipping education, Mikayla honed her celestial navigation skills onboard. With a sextant in hand, she carefully took a sight of the sun to accurately determine the ship's position without relying on modern electronic navigational equipment such as GPS. Mikayla's dedication to mastering the art of celestial navigation showcases the rigorous training and commitment to detail that are essential in the maritime field as a deck officer. Through her practical experiences onboard the MV Bay State, Mikayla gained the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the maritime industry.