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Set Sail on Your Seafaring Journey

Our Apprentice Program offers a unique, world-class maritime training experience unparalleled in North America. We’re here to help you find the right career opportunity based on your interests. During every step of the process, we will support you on your path towards a rewarding maritime career.

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Our Maritime Apprentice Program is the largest training program for new mariners in the United States. The apprentice program prepares students to start their seafaring career with entry-level positions in any department on board. No maritime experience is required to attend the program.

You must be 18 years old to apply. Even if you already have the skills that are required for the deck, engine, and steward departments, the U.S. Coast Guard requires sea time, training, and examination before you can obtain the necessary ratings.

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Guaranteed a First Job

The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, part of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, is a vocational school dedicated to preparing students for successful careers as U.S. Merchant Mariners. The school’s apprentice program is registered with U.S. Department of Labor. There is no cost for tuition or room and board, though there are other costs associated with the program.

Our Apprentice program provides the necessary training to work aboard U.S. Merchant Vessels. The 17-week course is followed by a first experience at sea. Stewards will continue to sail across multiple tours until they reach 200 sea days, whereas Deck and Engine students will return to the school after 60 days to begin the next components of their respective training (specialized for each department). Next, those mariners return to sea for a period of employment of at least 120 days. After one more segment of Piney Point-based training, you will be guaranteed your first rated job (AB, FOWT or Chief Cook) aboard a ship, assigned to you by the Port of Piney Point.

All applicants will have to successfully pass an SIU Physical and Drug test through an Hiring Hall. You will need a valid U.S. Passport. For more information, visit http://travel.state.gov.

If you have specific questions, you can refer to the Training and Careers tab on www.seafarers.org and review the Apprentice Program overview, Or call the Admissions Office at 1-800-732-2739.

Disclaimer: The Harry Lundeberg School may change any information outlined on this website with respect to our Unlicensed Apprentice Program based on industry needs and federal regulations.

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