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Earn Your Merchant Mariner Credentials Now

Our Boot Camp program is designed to produce fully credentialed and professionally trained mariners that are qualified to join any US Merchant Vessel at the entry level. Students will obtain their Transportation Worker’s Identification Card (TWIC), their US Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), and will be rated by Standards of Training and Certification for Watchkeepers (STCW-95). These credentials, basic skills training, career skills training specific to the industry, and hands-on training opportunity, produce a strongly competitive candidate for employment.

The program is offered at our Norfolk, VA and San Diego, CA locations.

About The Program

The month of training takes place in the classroom and at Maritime Institute’s San Diego, CA and Norfolk, VA campuses.  During classroom training, individuals are expected to successfully complete several courses. Classroom hours are typically 7:30am- 5pm, Monday- Friday. A second portion- for those who attend through “Out-of-School Youth” funding includes an on-the-job internship of up to 120 hours (average 40 hrs/ week over 3 weeks, but schedules depend on individual company operations).  

Boot Camp Instructors. Engineering instructor Adrian Batchelor introduces Alexis Black and Avery Williams to hydraulic systems in the engineering lab.  Our instructors have decades of experience in the maritime field and training professional mariners at every level. (October 2017)
"Transitioning from high school to the Mariners Bootcamp program was nerve-wracking at first, but the supportive class environment quickly built my confidence in pursuing a career in the maritime industry. ...
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Fabian Fernandez, Deckhand
American Cruise Line
"Transitioning from high school to the Mariners Bootcamp program was nerve-wracking at first, but the supportive class environment quickly built my confidence in pursuing a career in the maritime industry. Under the guidance of Mr. Ron our director and alongside my classmates, I discovered my potential to excel as a mariner. Throughout the program, we gained various skills, including knot tying, survival techniques, and the importance of teamwork. These lessons not only equipped me with practical knowledge but also instilled a sense of camaraderie among us. Now, with a fulfilling job in the maritime sector, I have the opportunity to travel while enjoying the adventure of working at sea. I'm grateful for the foundation laid by the Mariners Bootcamp program, which has opened doors to exciting opportunities and a fulfilling career path."
Fabian Fernandez, Deckhand
American Cruise Line
"My experience at maritime school was truly enriching. The interactive class environment and engaging field trips were definite highlights, providing hands-on learning experiences that were both educational and enjoyable. Since ...
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H Lee White, Deck Hand
Grand River Navigation
"My experience at maritime school was truly enriching. The interactive class environment and engaging field trips were definite highlights, providing hands-on learning experiences that were both educational and enjoyable. Since graduating in 2023, I've been steadily employed, starting my journey in the maritime industry on 9/26/2023. The education I received from maritime school played a crucial role in preparing me for this career path. From learning essential skills like knots to overcoming personal challenges like swimming, and gaining a solid foundation in standing watch duties, I feel well-equipped for the demands of this dynamic field."
H Lee White, Deck Hand
Grand River Navigation
"My time at maritime school was absolutely amazing. The boot camp program provided me with a well-structured and comprehensive introduction to the maritime industry, which was invaluable for someone like ...
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Keion Harris, Unlicensed Junior Engineer
Ship: Bell M Shimada
"My time at maritime school was absolutely amazing. The boot camp program provided me with a well-structured and comprehensive introduction to the maritime industry, which was invaluable for someone like me who was new to the field. One of the standout moments for me was when my classmates and I had the opportunity to step into the simulator. It was a true display of teamwork and communication, essential skills within the maritime industry. Since graduating, my journey has been incredibly rewarding. I joined NOAA shortly after completing my studies, starting as a deckhand and then transitioning to the engineering department. Through hard work and dedication, I recently earned a promotion to the position of Unlicensed Junior Engineer. It has been almost a year since I began this fulfilling career path with NOAA, starting in December 2018. Maritime school not only equipped me with theoretical knowledge but also provided a glimpse into the realities of life onboard a vessel. The instructors did an exceptional job of conveying the intricacies of the mariner's responsibilities, which has been instrumental in my professional development. I am immensely grateful for the foundation laid by my maritime education, and I look forward to continuing my journey in this dynamic and exciting industry."
Keion Harris, Unlicensed Junior Engineer
Ship: Bell M Shimada
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