The Sea Cadets

Woking & District

ROLE OF THE MERCHANT NAVY

As an island nation with a long and respected maritime history, the UK has a central role to play in the world’s maritime activity. Our geographical position and the volume of our trade make our waters some of the busiest for shipping in the world. Ships carry 90% of world trade (and 95% of Britain's trade). What's more, seaborne trade is forecast to almost double over the next 15 years.

British Shipping is an industry of the future – well managed, technologically advanced and committed to respecting the environment. This industry depends upon a core of highly competent and professional British seafarers, who are respected worldwide for their high standards and the quality of their training. The Merchant Navy provides opportunities for able and enthusiastic young people to train, so that they can - surprisingly soon - manage and operate modern, technically sophisticated commercial ships. Career prospects and travel opportunities are excellent.

There are approximately 16,000 UK officers and 11,500 ratings currently employed in the Merchant Navy.

WARTIME CONTRIBUTION

The Merchant Navy has served the nation in times of peace and war. Its Red Ensign has flown in every corner of the globe for trade and exploration and in support of the Armed Forces. (And it is hopefully flying right now in the top left hand corner of this web page!)

In the Second World War, the Merchant Navy had a higher ratio (though not number) of casualties than any of the Armed Services. As a result, members of the Merchant Navy now take part in the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph, alongside members of the armed forces.

Merchant Navy Day, on the 3rd of September, now marks the opening day of the Second World War. It commemorates the first maritime casualty, when the SS 'Athenia', an unarmed merchant ship, was sunk by a U-boat with the loss of 112 passengers and crew. Red Ensigns will now be seen flying every 3rd September on buildings throughout the UK.

JOINING THE MERCHANT NAVY

Most shipping companies recruit cadets between the ages of 16 and 22. Graduates and older applicants with relevant experience and qualifications will be considered individually. At the time of writing, about 25 shipping companies are training deck and engineering cadets §.

DON'T HEDGE YOUR BETS - JOIN THE SEA CADETS !