Launched in 2020, the Coming Ashore programme is now in its 4th year, with over 500 seafarers expressing an interest and registering with the programme to transition to maritime roles ashore. It is the only comprehensive and structured mentoring initiative of its kind, helping seafarers plan their move ashore effectively.
Recognising the value of seafarers’ skills, the programme onboards maritime professionals as mentors, many of whom are former seafarers, offering their expertise in maritime law, insurance, broking, surveying, regulation and much more, in addition to the practicalities of working ashore which is often overlooked This ensures a high success rate for those completing the programme.
Project Ulysses identified the sea-to-shore transition issue in the UK, leading to the creation of the programme in collaboration with Maritime London, Nautilus International, Trinity House, Merchant Navy Training Board and Marine Society. Open to seafarers of all nationalities and ranks, the programme is particularly beneficial for UK-based individuals.
Whilst traditional advice encourages officers to gain experience at sea, employers are increasingly considering candidates without command experience. On the programme we offer the Sea to Shore Industry Placements Scheme (SSIPS), allowing seafarers to gain valuable experience with participating employers.
Additionally, the Coming Ashore Programme provides free or subsidised resources, including personality profiling, psychometric testing, CV writing, interview preparation, and free access to soft skills study courses (Learn@Sea & Learn@Shore). It addresses challenges such as adapting from a ‘command and control’ management style at sea to a team-working ethos ashore.
Successful mentees have found roles with companies such as Carnival UK, Ocean Technologies Group, Maritime & Coastguard Agency, P&I Clubs, and the Port of London Authority. Our revamped Coming Ashore Podcast now features interviews, tips and insights from stakeholders across the maritime industry.
Seafarers interested in the programme can visit the Marine Society website to register. The duration of the programme, typically 6-9 months, is tailored to the individual’s needs.
Generously funded by the Maritime Educational Foundation and ITF Seafarers Trust to get it up and running, the Marine Society now welcomes sponsorship from maritime employers and stakeholders to support the programme as part of their corporate social responsibility efforts.
For further information, contact Meg Pawsey at [email protected] or visit their website.
