# When Is the Best Time to Start Your Maritime Job Search? > If you're new to your career you might wonder when the best time to start looking for your next maritime job is. Read on and we'll tell you! _Published 2025-06-19 · By Eve Church · Canonical: https://blog.martide.com/when-is-best-time-to-start-maritime-job-search/_ --- If you're a seafarer you're probably already well aware that maritime job hunting isn't as simple as sending out a few applications and landing a job the following week. Unlike shore-based jobs, where you can walk into interviews or start a new role within days, finding work in the shipping industry requires **careful timing, planning, and preparation**. If you're relatively new in your maritime career and are still learning the ropes and figuring out how best to find and apply for jobs, this blog post should have some helpful information for you, so keep reading! Most seafarers begin looking for their next contract **2-3 months before their current one ends** - and for good reason. If you wait too long, you could find yourself **stuck onshore without work** or scrambling for a position that doesn't suit your experience and expectations. So, when exactly is the best time to start your maritime job search? And how can you do it efficiently whether you're **still at sea or already on land?** Let's dive in - pun intended. ![A seafarer looking through a telescope at a container ship that has the word 'jobs' painted on its hull ](https://imagedelivery.net/MN7lylkJmHINZhrMCwblyA/a6d7e642-7684-49ef-dd7c-5273ad469d00) ## Why you should start maritime job hunting early As the saying goes, time is money, and that's precisely why you need to be on the ball when it comes to making sure you have your next seafaring contract lined up in good time. Here are some other reasons why. ### 1. Avoiding unnecessary gaps between contracts One of the biggest risks of waiting too long to look for your next maritime job contract is ending up **unemployed for weeks or even months**. Shipping companies and crewing agencies plan rotations in advance, and if you start searching too late, you may miss out on available opportunities. Many seafarers aim for **as little downtime as possible** between contracts. Unless you're planning to take an extended break, an early job search ensures you **line up your next contract smoothly** and return to work as soon as you're ready. **Read more:** [Don't Make These 6 Mistakes When Looking for a Maritime Job!](https://blog.martide.com/dont-make-these-6-mistakes-when-looking-for-a-maritime-job/) ### 2. Securing the best opportunities The best maritime jobs are competitive. Experienced officers, engineers, and ratings often have multiple options, and the most desirable roles get filled quickly. If you delay your job search, you might be left choosing between limited options - or accepting a contract with lower pay, tougher conditions, or an unfamiliar vessel type. By starting your search **2-3 months in advance**, you'll have more time to **apply for better offshore or seafarer jobs**, negotiate your salary, and ensure a contract aligns with your maritime career goals. ![a smiling man working in a maritime job on the deck of a cargo ship](https://imagedelivery.net/MN7lylkJmHINZhrMCwblyA/d2d08004-d320-4c52-9595-66cd864ad100) ### 3. Giving yourself time for the recruitment process Getting hired as a seafarer isn't just about **applying and waiting for an offer** - there are multiple steps involved, including: - Submitting applications and waiting for responses - Interviews (which may happen in stages) - Medical checks and certifications - Visa and travel document processing - Company-specific training or assessments All of this takes **weeks or even months**, so leaving plenty of time ensures you're not rushing or missing out on key steps. **Read more:** [How to Prepare for a Skype or Zoom Seafarer Job Interview](https://blog.martide.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-skype-interview-in-the-maritime-industry/) ### How to search for a job while you're working at sea Many seafarers start looking for their next job **while they're still onboard**, especially in the final months of their contract. But since internet access can be limited, searching efficiently is key. Here's how you can do it: #### 1. Update your seafarer CV before your contract ends Before you disembark, make sure your **CV ( [seafarer resume](https://blog.martide.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-creating-a-seafarer-resume/)) is updated** with your latest sea service details, experience, and certifications. This way, when you start applying, you won't have to waste time making changes. **Tip**: Save your CV in **multiple formats** (PDF, Word, etc.) and email it to yourself, so you can access it easily from any device. Your [Martide seafarer profile also acts as a seaman resume](https://www.martide.com/en/seafarer-resumes) and any employers or manning agencies who use Martide will be able to access your details and see your availability through our system. Just make sure your profile is up-to-date! ![a laptop with 'Martide seafarer jobs' on the screen](https://imagedelivery.net/MN7lylkJmHINZhrMCwblyA/b91fa69b-8f9c-4d33-8b3b-139b0062b100) #### 2. Reach out to your manning agency early If you're employed through a crewing or manning agency, contact them at least **two months before your contract ends**. Let them know: - When you're available for your next contract - If you want to [stay with the same shipping company or switch](https://blog.martide.com/seafarers-guide-to-changing-employer-manning-agent/) - About any new certifications or promotions you've received Many manning agencies prioritize seafarers they already know, so staying in touch **keeps you on their radar** for upcoming positions. #### 3. Use online job portals and social media Even with limited internet, try to **check maritime job portals** whenever possible. Websites like: - Crew and manning agency websites - Online maritime job boards - such as [Martide's seafarer job vacancies](https://www.martide.com/en/jobs)) - [LinkedIn pages](https://www.linkedin.com/company/martide/) and [Facebook accounts](https://www.facebook.com/martide.hq) or groups (search for "maritime jobs" or "seafarer vacancies") A quick check a few times a week can help you **stay updated on open positions.** #### 4. Network with other seafarers Your crewmates, past coworkers, and officers can be valuable connections when looking for work. Many jobs in the maritime industry are filled through **referrals and recommendations**. If you're still onboard, **ask around** - someone might know of an opening that suits your skills. ![seafarers working in maritime jobs on deck standing around chatting](https://imagedelivery.net/MN7lylkJmHINZhrMCwblyA/cde11c8b-85dd-4a7c-4917-c5f39958cc00) ### How to search for a maritime job while you're on land If you've already disembarked and are onshore between contracts, you have **more flexibility** in your job search. Here's how to maximize your time: #### 1. Register with multiple manning agencies Even if you have a preferred crewing agency, it's smart to **register with multiple agencies** to increase your chances of finding work. Send them your **CV, certificates, and availability dates** so they can match you with upcoming contracts. **Read more:** [What Seafarers Can Expect From a Professional Manning Agency](https://blog.martide.com/what-to-expect-from-professional-manning-agency/) #### 2. Check job listings daily Now you're onshore, access to the internet shouldn't be a problem. New maritime job postings appear every day, so checking job sites **regularly** helps you apply early before positions fill up. **Tip**: Set up **email alerts** on job portals so you get notified when a job matching your criteria is posted. On [Martide's maritime jobs page](https://www.martide.com/en/jobs), simply hit the 'Create Alert' button and enter the rank and/or vessel type you're interested in. #### 3. Attend virtual job fairs and recruitment events Many shipping companies now hold [online hiring events](https://blog.martide.com/what-are-virtual-maritime-career-fairs/) where you can connect with recruiters, learn about open roles, and even have video interviews. If you're on land with a stable internet connection, attending these events can be a great way to secure your next contract. #### 4. Stay physically and medically ready Since some maritime jobs require **urgent crew changes**, being **medically fit and document-ready** gives you an advantage. Therefore, make sure: - Your **STCW, medical, and other required certificates** are valid - Your **seaman's book and passport** have enough validity for your next contract - You're up to date with any **vaccinations** required by your next destination ![a young man undergoing a medical health check by a doctor](https://imagedelivery.net/MN7lylkJmHINZhrMCwblyA/cf46241d-960d-43ee-a049-bd7efc204000) #### 5. Be flexible but know your worth While it's good to have preferences regarding salary, vessel type, and voyage routes, being **too picky** can limit your opportunities. At the same time, don't accept a **bad contract out of desperation** - negotiating your terms is part of the process. And definitely [don't fall prey to a scammer agency](https://blog.martide.com/fake-seafarer-jobs/) who will do nothing more than take your money and give you false promises and **bogus job offers** in return. Remember: you should not have to pay to find work! ### Final thoughts on when to look for a seafarer job Let's sum it up: - Best time to start job hunting: **2-3 months before your contract ends** - **If you're still at sea**: Contact agencies, update your CV, network onboard, and check job listings when possible - **If you're on land**: Register with agencies, apply consistently, attend virtual and IRL job fairs, and stay document-ready The key to **successful maritime job hunting** is **starting early**, **staying proactive**, and **keeping your options open**. Whether you're still onboard or between contracts, planning ahead ensures you don't lose valuable work time - and helps you land the best possible position for your next contract. Are you currently searching for your next maritime job? Take a look at our [maritime job vacancies](https://www.martide.com/en/jobs) - all you need to do to apply is [create a free Martide account](https://my.martide.com/en/signup) and you could be on your way to your next seafaring contract.