Question 1

How can I apply for a vacancy?

Accepted Answer

Ready to apply for a vacancy? Simply click on the "APPLY NOW" button to get started.
By clicking on "APPLY NOW," you will be directed to where you can begin the seamless application process.

Question 2

What is the first step for each application?

Accepted Answer

To begin your application, complete the Online CV using our streamlined platform. This step captures your personal details and allows you to upload your CV with ease.

Requirements:
 • Valid South African passport
 • BMI under 35 – Your Body Mass Index (BMI) helps assess whether you are within a healthy weight range. This will be evaluated during your medical examination. The official certificate must be received from a doctor or clinic and submitted during your application.
 • Police clearance certificate (through SAPS) or a Criminal record check (preferred method as it is obtained within 24-72 hours obtained through HURU at Postnet). Issued within the last 3 months.

Visa –To be processed only after scheduling. Our crewing team will advise if required, offering you guidance and support throughout the process.

Question 3

How much does it cost to apply?

Accepted Answer

In order to join a vessel as a seafarer, International Maritime Law requires you to obtain certain STCW Certification and Seafarer Medical, which can cost you up to R25,000.00 (twenty-five thousand rand).

Question 4

Do you have to be South African to apply?

Accepted Answer

SOA is responsible for recruiting within South Africa. If you are not a South African citizen, you need to hold valid working Visas and/ or permits to work in South Africa in order to be considered.

Question 5

How long does it take to get placed?

Accepted Answer

Please note that while we strive to assist all candidates in securing a placement, we cannot guarantee specific timelines due to various factors that influence the placement process.

Once accepted to join MSC Cruises, the crew HR Coordinators will schedule your embarkation date based on MSC Cruises crew rotation needs, on your availability and the documents preparation process you are invited to complete (including but not limited to Medical Documentation & STCW Courses).

Question 6

What are the next steps after being hired?

Accepted Answer

You will receive the following information

- Embarkation / welcome letter with detailed information with steps and attachments with specific guidelines to follow and to be completed and returned to us.
- Letter of employment that needs to be completed and returned to us within 48 hours.

BMI (Body Mass Index)
BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a measurement that uses your weight and height to estimate body fat and assess whether you are within a healthy weight range.

For seafarers, obesity is a common cause of physical incapacity, alongside musculoskeletal diseases, injuries, and reduced heart and lung function. These factors are interconnected, as excess weight increases strain on the heart and lungs during physical activity and raises the risk of future musculoskeletal issues and heart disease.

To meet medical requirements, your BMI should generally not exceed 35. While this will be assessed during your medical examination. The official certificate must be received from a doctor or clinic.

Medical Examination
The medical examination must be completed after successfully passing the interview. Once you have been selected, you will receive a medical guide listing all approved doctors. It is essential to visit only these approved doctors, as medical examinations conducted by unapproved doctors will not be accepted. The medical examination must be completed before STCW training. Please refer to your embarkation guide for the list of approved medical providers.

Certain medical conditions may result in limitations or disqualification, including (but not limited to):

Obesity – Difficulty performing emergency tasks, restricted mobility, increased risk of injury, inability to fit into protective clothing, and exceeding equipment design standards.
 • Heart and vascular diseases
 • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
 • Type 2 diabetes
 • Sleep apnea
 • Skeletal damage – Especially in weight-bearing areas such as the hips, knees, and lower back.
 • Epilepsy

Ensure you meet the medical requirements to avoid delays or disqualification.

STCW Certification
The STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) sets global standards regulated by SAMSA for seafarer training and safety in South Africa. After passing the medical examination, you will need to complete STCW training as required.

You must complete six STCW modules:
1. Personal Safety & Social Responsibility – Covers emergency procedures, pollution prevention, safe working practices, teamwork, and fatigue management.
2. Personal Survival Techniques – Teaches survival skills in case of ship abandonment, including evacuation, life-saving equipment, and rescue procedures.
3. Fire Prevention & Firefighting – Trains seafarers to prevent, control, and extinguish fires, manage fire teams, and handle firefighting equipment.
4. Elementary First Aid – Covers basic medical care, including treating injuries, burns, fractures, and using first aid kits.
5. Security Awareness – Focuses on recognising security threats, ship security plans, and compliance with ISPS Code standards.
6. Crowd Management & Passenger Safety – Prepares crew members to assist passengers, manage emergency situations, and communicate effectively during crises.

Ensure you complete these modules as per your embarkation letter to meet international maritime safety standards.