Packing Lists

Preparing for training or time at sea requires making sure you have the right kit with you. To help, we’ve put together a comprehensive packing list on this page covering the essential items you’ll need.

 

For ease of use, you’ll also find a downloadable PDF version of the list, complete with checkboxes, so you can tick off each item as you pack. This makes it simple to stay organised and avoid forgetting anything important.

 

Use the list below as your quick reference, and download the PDF if you prefer a printable version to take with you.

College Phase

Sea Phase

Documents

 

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

  • Seamans Discharge Book (if you have one already)

  • ENG1 Medical Certificate

  • College acceptance / joining instructions

  • Navigational Equipment (Dividers, Parallel Rulers etc)

  • Notebook, pens, pencils, highlighters

  • Bank details, insurance, and emergency contacts
  • Academic Certificates (A-Levels, BTECs etc)

 

Uniform & Professional Wear

 

  • College uniform (as instructed)

    • White Pilot Shirts 
    • Black Trousers 
    • NATO style Jumper (Tends to get cold!)
    • Black Shoes 
    • Black / Company Tie 
    • Any other company/sponsor issued Uniform 

  • Boiler suit / overalls

  • Safety boots (steel-toe) 

  • Waterproof jacket and warm layers

 

Casual Clothing

 

  • Everyday clothes for evenings/weekends

  • Trainers / casual footwear

  • Swimwear / sports kit 

  • Warm jumpers and comfortable trousers

  • Sleepwear 

 

Personal Kit & Accommodation

 

  • Bedding (Duvet, pillows, sheets)

  • Mattress Cover (You don't know who was in your bed before you!)

  • Towels (bath and hand)

  • Wash kit & toiletries (toothbrush, shower gel, shampoo, shaving kit, etc.)

  • Laundry bag and detergent tabs

  • Clothes hangers (Cant Stress This enough) 

  • Alarm clock / phone charger / Electronics 

  • Reusable water bottle

 

Study & IT

 

  • Laptop / iPad / tablet with charger

  • USB memory stick / external hard drive

  • Headphones (for study or leisure)

  • Calculator (scientific, non-programmable for exams)

  • Stationery set (ruler, compass, protractor, erasers, etc.)

 

Miscellaneous

 

  • Room Decorations
  • Dirty Laundry Bag
  • Home Photos? 
  • Homely items 
  • Games Console / PC

This list covers the essential items required during your sea phase. Pack light and practical — cabin space is very limited. Most of the time you will get 2 x 23KG bag allowance for flights (company dependent). Depending on your ship type, A suitcase or Duffle bag might be preferable. 

 

Note on PPE: All required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — such as coveralls, safety boots, gloves, helmet, and hi-vis gear — will be provided by your company and should be issued onboard. There is no need to bring your own unless specifically instructed in your joining information.

 

If you know, or know of cadets or officers that have sailed on your new vessel, ask them what to take!

 

Documents & Certification

 

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

  • Seaman’s Discharge Book

  • ENG1 Medical Certificate

  • Short Course Certificates 

  • Training Record Book (TRB)

  • Joining instructions / company letters

  • Visa documents (if applicable)

  • Vaccination certificates (e.g., Yellow Fever)

  • Copies of important documents (kept separately from originals)

 

Clothing (Non-PPE)

 

  • Extra supply of shirts (always a good idea — laundry isn’t always reliable, and spares are useful)

  • Casual clothes for evenings

  • Trainers / lightweight shoes

  • Sports kit (for onboard gym if available)

  • Sleepwear

  • Warm layers (ships can be cold depending on route)

  • Smart clothes for inspections / port calls (e.g. trousers, shirt, tie, black shoes)

 

Personal Kit

 

  • Towels (quick-dry recommended , however some ships provide them so check)

  • Toiletries (shower gel, toothbrush, razor, deodorant, etc.)

  • Nail clippers & personal hygiene items

  • Laundry bag / detergent pods (if facilities available)

  • Bedding (check joining instructions — some ships provide)

  • Small rucksack/day bag (Might even get some shore leave!)

 

Study & Training

 

  • Training Record Book (TRB)

  • Notebook, pens, pencils, highlighters

  • Laptop/tablet with charger

  • USB stick / external hard drive (Download as MANY things to watch and listen as possible!!) 

 

Miscellaneous Essentials

 

  • Torch / headlamp

  • Sunglasses & sunscreen

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Alarm clock / wristwatch (water-resistant recommended)

  • First aid basics (plasters, seasickness tablets, painkillers)

  • Snacks (long shelf-life comfort food from home)

  • Entertainment (books, Kindle, cards, films, music, etc.)

  • Travel adaptor (international plug types vary)

Pre College Checklist Docx
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Pre Sea Checklist Docx
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