Offshore Fleet — Short Rotations and High Salaries
The Offshore Fleet includes vessels supporting oil & gas platforms, offshore wind farms, and subsea operations: PSV, AHTS, crew boats, jack-up rigs, FPSO, CSV, and DSV vessels. Offshore shipping offers short rotations (usually 28/28 days), some of the highest salaries in the maritime industry, and valuable DP (Dynamic Positioning) experience.Offshore work is different from ocean trading routes. Instead of long voyages, seafarers operate close to offshore platforms, performing precision maneuvering, DP operations, anchor handling, and supply tasks.Direct hiring for seafarers on supply vessels, AHTS, crew boats, FPSO, and specialized offshore vessels without intermediaries. All positions are available — from AB jobs to Master and Chief Engineer vacancies. JobMarineMan is a platform where Shipowners hire crews directly.View All Offshore Fleet Vacancies
Why Offshore Fleet Offers Better Rotations
Offshore vessels support offshore oil platforms, offshore wind farms, and subsea infrastructure projects. Unlike cargo shipping, offshore vessels usually work within one operational region such as the North Sea, Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caspian Sea, or Brazil.
Why Offshore Salaries Are Higher
28/28 rotation — one month onboard, one month at home.
Offshore operations are more complex and demanding.
DP experience is highly valued across the maritime industry.
Offshore safety standards are extremely strict.
Most offshore projects are long-term and stable.
Types of Offshore Vessels
PSV (Platform Supply Vessel)
Supply vessels transporting pipes, drilling mud, cement, containers, provisions, and equipment to offshore platforms.For AB and OS:
cargo operations;
deck handling;
offshore logistics.
For Engineers:
modern Caterpillar;
MTU;
Bergen;
Wärtsilä engines.
AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply)
Anchor handling vessels and offshore tugs are among the most powerful offshore vessels.Operations include:
anchor handling;
towing rigs;
platform support;
offshore supply.
AB salaries on AHTS vessels are among the highest for ratings.
Crew Boat / Fast Supply Vessel
High-speed vessels transporting offshore personnel to platforms.Small crews, intensive operations, and waterjet propulsion systems.
FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading)
Floating offshore oil production and storage facilities.Crew sizes may exceed 200 personnel.For ETOs and Engineers:
Dynamic Positioning is a system that keeps a vessel in position without anchors using thrusters and propulsion systems.DP is one of the most valuable offshore skills for:
2nd Officers;
Chief Officers;
Masters;
ETOs.
DP Classes
DP1
DP2
DP3
Most supply and AHTS vessels require DP2 certification.
How to Get a DP Certificate
DP Induction Course
DP sea time
DP Simulator Course
Nautical Institute Certification
DP-certified Officers usually earn significantly higher salaries.