Start your maritime career on board a global fleet. As a Nautical Officer Assistant, you will gain practical experience at sea, work in an international crew, and build the foundation for a future career as Captain. During your training, you will support the safe and efficient operation of modern container vessels while preparing for a degree in Nautical Science.
Next start date: 1 August 2027.
You are passionate about maritime navigation and enjoy working in an international team? You may already have the goal of becoming a Captain (Unlimited) and want to gain the practical sea service and experience required for a degree in Nautical Science?
As a Nautical Officer Assistant, you will work worldwide as part of our crew and contribute to the smooth operation of our container vessels.
Your training begins with an information day in Hamburg around mid-June for you and your family. Apprentices and officers provide insights into life on board and the working environment at sea.
This is followed by a one-week introduction program in Hamburg, where you will meet your future colleagues and trainers and learn more about Hapag-Lloyd and the city of Hamburg.
The professional training starts with a two-week Basic Safety Training course, covering firefighting and rescue procedures and providing the required certification.
After a short break, you will join one of our training vessels together with 13 other apprentices and two dedicated training officers. During this initial voyage, you will be prepared for your future assignments on board.
Afterwards, you will complete individual voyages lasting between two and four months, either alone or together with another apprentice. The total training duration is approximately 19 months, including at least 12 months of mandatory sea service.
- Duration of training: Approx. 19 months
- Required sea service: Minimum 12 months on board
- Start of training: August 1, 2027
- Application period: Approximately 12 months in advance
- Vocational training partner: Maritimes Kompetenzzentrum Elsfleth or Schleswig-Holsteinische Seemannsschule Travemünde
- Training flyer
- After completing the required 12 months of sea service and receiving the training certificate from Berufsbildungsstelle Seeschifffahrt e.V., you can directly begin the six-semester degree program in Nautical Science (career path to Captain).
- After graduation, your maritime career starts on board as a Watch Officer in the nautical department.
- With further sea service experience, you will qualify for the certification as Chief Officer. Following additional experience, you can obtain the certification as Captain (Unlimited)
- All certifications are issued by the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency.