What is an Open CDC in the Merchant Navy?

An Open CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) is a vital document for aspiring seafarers who have completed basic STCW courses (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping). It acts as an official seafarer's passport, recording your sea service and employment history across Indian and international waters.

Unlike those who undergo full GP Rating or specialized pre-sea training, candidates with an Open CDC can still begin their maritime careers after completing essential STCW training. This makes it a quicker and cost-effective entry point into the Merchant Navy.

✅ Key Benefits of an Open CDC:

• -  Enables you to legally work on Indian & foreign-going vessels

• - Documents your on-board service and ship assignments

• - Accepted by most coastal and international shipping companies

• - Ideal for those seeking direct entry after STCW training thru the seaways, www.the seaways.com

Start your sea career with the right documentation—The Seaways is here to guide you every step of the way!

⚓ Eligibility for STCW Pre-Sea Courses 

To enroll in STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) Pre-Sea Courses, candidates must meet the following criteria: 

• ✅ Educational Qualification:

  • Minimum 10th Pass from a recognized board (some institutes may accept 8th pass for basic safety training).

  ✅ Age Limit:

  • Minimum: 17.5 years

  • Maximum: 35 years (may vary slightly depending on the institute)

  ✅ Medical Fitness:

  • Must be medically fit as per DG Shipping norms

  • Normal eyesight and no color blindness (confirmed through an approved medical test by a DG Shipping-certified doctor)

  ✅ Nationality:

  • Must be an Indian citizen

  ✅ Documents Required at the Time of Admission:

  • Aadhaar Card & PAN Card

  • Passport (if available)

  • Educational Certificates

  • 4–6 Passport-size photographs

  • Medical fitness certificate from DG Shipping approved doctor

  • 🎯 Get trained. Get certified. Set sail on your Merchant Navy career with confidence!
    

⚓ Job Roles & Responsibilities for Open CDC / STCW Certified Candidates 

(Indian & Foreign Going Vessels) 

Candidates with an Open CDC and completed STCW basic safety training are eligible to work onboard various types of vessels such as cargo ships, container ships, tugs, offshore supply vessels, tankers, and passenger ships. 

They typically join as Ordinary Seamen (OS) or Wipers in the Deck or Engine Departments depending on their skills and interest.

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• 🔧Deck Department – Ordinary Seaman (OS)

  Key Duties:

  • - Assisting in berthing/unberthing operations (handling ropes, mooring lines)

  • - Daily maintenance of the ship's deck – chipping, painting, and cleaning

  • - Assisting officers with navigational watch and lookout duties

  • - Handling cargo gear and ensuring deck safety equipment is in place

  • - Performing safety drills and emergency response activities

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• ⚙️ Engine Department – Wiper

  Key Duties:

  • - Assisting engineers in routine maintenance and cleaning of engine room machinery

  • - Monitoring and recording machinery temperatures and pressure readings

  • - Performing basic mechanical tasks like oiling, greasing, and filter cleaning

  • - Supporting in bunkering operations and waste management

  • - Ensuring engine room cleanliness and participating in safety drills

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• 🛳️ Vessels You May Work On:

  • - General Cargo Ships

  • - Container Vessels

  • - Tug Boats

  • - Offshore Supply Vessels

  • - Oil/Chemical Tankers

  • - Passenger & Cruise Ships

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🌍 With an Open CDC and STCW training, you can sail globally and start earning onboard while gaining valuable sea service for future upgrades.

👉 Need help getting placed?
The Seaways Placement & Services provides 100% placement assistance for Indian & foreign shipping companies.

Scope & Career Progression for Open CDC & STCW Certified Candidates

(Indian & Foreign Ships/Vessels) 

Starting your maritime career with an Open CDC and STCW Basic Safety Training opens the door to a world of opportunity in the Merchant Navy. Whether on Indian coastal vessels or foreign-going ships, seafarers can steadily grow in rank, skills, and salary with continued sea service and advanced certifications.

• 📈 Career Growth Path:

  Deck Department (Starting as Ordinary Seaman):

  1. Ordinary Seaman (OS)
     → 2. Able Seaman (AB)
     → 3. Bosun
     → 4. Pumpman / Deck Foreman
     → 5. Third Officer (after qualifying exams & sea time)
     → 6. Second Officer
     → 7. Chief Officer
     → 8. Captain (Master Mariner)

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• Engine Department (Starting as Wiper):

  1. Wiper
     → 2. Oiler
     → 3. Motorman
     → 4. Fitter / Engine Foreman
     → 5. Fourth Engineer (after qualifying exams & sea time)
     → 6. Third Engineer
     → 7. Second Engineer
     → 8. Chief Engineer

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🌊 Scope & Career Progression for Open CDC / STCW Candidates

(Merchant Navy - Indian & Foreign Vessels)

Starting your career in the Merchant Navy with Open CDC & STCW certificates offers immense opportunities for both Deck and Engine departments. With experience, sea-time, and upgraded courses, you can rise to senior ranks such as Captain or Chief Engineer


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⚙️ Career Path – Engine Department

🎯 Fast Track Your Maritime Career 

With regular sea service and proper guidance, Open CDC holders can qualify for competency exams and move to officer ranks. 

🚢 Start as a rating – grow into a leader. Your journey begins with The Seaways. 

📞 Contact us today for placement & upgrade assistance!