A maritime CV is the main tool for finding a job at sea. Even experienced seafarers can overlook small details that determine the outcome of a contract. In this article, we’ll go over 10 typical mistakes often found in seafarer CVs and explain how to avoid them.
❌ 1. Outdated Information
📌 Seafarers often forget to update contract dates, certificates, or contact details.
✅ Solution: Check your CV before every application. Use platforms where this is quick and easy (for example, the CV editor on CREW ARIA).
❌ 2. Missing or Inappropriate Photo
📌 Photos in beachwear or without a neutral background are a common mistake.
✅ Solution: Use a professional photo with a light background, wearing a shirt or polo, without hats or sunglasses.
❌ 3. Wrong Order of Information
📌 Starting with education instead of sea service is incorrect.
✅ Solution: List your sea experience first, then certificates, then education.
❌ 4. Poor or Unreadable Format
📌 A screenshot or messy Word file makes your CV hard to read.
✅ Solution: Use PDF, structured layout, and standardized templates.
❌ 5. Listing Everything
📌 Including outdated or irrelevant ships and short contracts adds no value.
✅ Solution: Highlight relevant experience from the past 5–7 years, especially for your current rank.
❌ 6. English Language Mistakes
📌 Wrong terms or grammar mistakes are immediately noticeable.
✅ Solution: Use professionally translated templates. Platforms like CREW ARIA offer ready-made solutions.
❌ 7. Missing or Incorrect Contact Info
📌 A typo in your email = no job offer.
✅ Solution: Always double-check your email and phone number. Add messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram.
❌ 8. No STCW or Medical Certificates Listed
📌 Even if you have the experience, no valid docs = no job.
✅ Solution: List valid certificates with issue and expiry dates.
❌ 9. No English Level Mentioned
📌 Many seafarers skip this.
✅ Solution: Mention your level (e.g., Marlins 85%, CES passed, Intermediate spoken).
❌ 10. Missing Desired Position
📌 If your target rank isn’t clear, recruiters won’t know who you are — AB, Bosun, or Motorman?
✅ Solution: At the very top, state your desired rank, vessel type, and any special qualifications like DP.
✅ Conclusion:
A well-prepared CV is 70% of success. Check it before every send-out and never overlook key details. Want to make it easier? Use the online CV editor on CREW ARIA — fully standardized, nothing extra, ready to send in just 5 minutes.
