Seafaring experience is essential to take on many good shore-based positions in the maritime sector. However, we understand that the journey of a seafarer is a long and challenging one. It takes at least 8 years or more to attain the highest level of competency and requires one to be away from home.

To encourage and spur local seafarers in their seafaring training and career progression, MPA and the tripartite partners (unions and industry) has set aside a S$12.5 million fund for the Sail Milestone Achievement Programme (SailMAP). Announced in March 2022, the SailMAP provides each seafarer with up to S$50,000 when they attain key career milestones, including a sign-on bonus of S$10,000 when they sign-on their first vessel as a Certificate of Competency (COC) Class 3 (deck officer) or 5 (marine engineer) holder.

There are also training allowances to help support the seafarer’s income when they are not sailing.
This allows seafarers to focus on upgrading their seafaring skills and knowledge during these periods.

To find out more on the scheme, you may refer to our Shipping Circular No. 9 of 2022.