In today’s competitive job market, many young Indonesians are searching for career paths that offer stability, high earning potential, and long-term growth. One profession that continues to attract thousands of youth across the country is becoming a seafarer (ABK) on international fishing vessels. This career is open to beginners, offers attractive financial benefits, and provides valuable life experience.
Here are five strong reasons why young people aged 18–30 should seriously consider starting their professional journey as a seafarer, especially through a legal, licensed agency such as PT RNT Utama Indonesia, which has successfully deployed thousands of Indonesian crew members to global fleets.
1. Higher Income Compared to Land-Based Jobs
One of the biggest advantages of working as a seafarer is the significantly higher income compared to many land-based jobs in Indonesia. International fishing vessels offer competitive monthly salaries:
- USD 350–700 per month for beginners
- USD 800–1,500 for experienced crew
- Additional catch bonuses, depending on the vessel type
For many young adults, this income is equivalent to 3–10 times the local minimum wage (UMR). With just one or two contracts, a seafarer can earn enough to:
- Build or renovate a house
- Support their family’s daily needs
- Save for long-term goals
- Start a small business
- Fund education for siblings or children
For youth looking to improve their family’s economy, this profession offers a life-changing financial opportunity.
2. No High Education or Experience Required
Unlike many careers that require diplomas, technical certificates, or years of experience, becoming a seafarer is surprisingly accessible. Many vessels accept non-experienced candidates, making this profession ideal for young people starting from zero.
Basic requirements typically include:
- Age 18–30
- Minimum education: junior high school (SMP)
- Physically fit
- Minimum height and weight standards
- Basic documents (KTP, KK, birth certificate, SKCK)
Once they pass the administrative stage, candidates will undergo mandatory training, such as:
- Basic Safety Training (BST)
- Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF)
- Survival Craft and Rescue Boat (SCRB)
This ensures even total beginners can work safely and professionally on board. This accessibility makes the seafaring profession a great choice for youth who want to start working immediately without lengthy educational barriers.
3. Long-Term Career Growth and International Prospects
Becoming a seafarer is not just a temporary job—it can be a long-term career with clear promotion opportunities. For young people aged 18–30, this is the perfect time to begin, as they have the physical strength and time to build a solid track record.
Career progression typically follows this path:
- Entry-level crew (general crew)
- Oiler / Wiper
- Bosun (boatswain)
- Officer
- Chief Officer
- Captain
Many Indonesian crew members have successfully climbed the ranks to senior positions, earning significantly higher salaries and international recognition. With strong performance, discipline, and proper certification, the maritime industry offers a sustainable and rewarding career path.
PT RNT Utama Indonesia helps candidates build this long-term journey by providing training, legal documentation, and deployment opportunities with reputable international fleets.
4. Improving Family Economy and Future Stability
One of the most inspiring aspects of becoming a seafarer is how it transforms not just individual lives but entire families. Many ABK alumni share stories of using their earnings to:
- Buy land or build homes
- Support parents financially
- Pay for school or college for their siblings
- Invest in small businesses
- Create long-term savings
For young people at the start of their working life, this profession offers the rare opportunity to create real financial stability early on. Instead of spending years climbing slow career ladders, working as a seafarer allows them to build wealth much faster.
This makes the profession a strategic choice for youth who want to achieve financial independence and provide security for their family.
5. Building Discipline, Mental Strength, and Independence
A career at sea doesn’t just build income, it builds character. Working on a vessel challenges young people to develop qualities that will benefit them for life, such as:
- Discipline in following schedules and safety protocols
- Mental resilience in facing long working hours and harsh weather
- Teamwork in multicultural environments
- Problem-solving skills during tough situations
- Independence and responsibility
Many former seafarers return home with greater confidence, emotional maturity, and the ability to lead and manage responsibilities. These traits are valuable whether they continue at sea or later transition to a land-based career.
The experience gained from working internationally also enhances adaptability, cultural understanding, and professional attitudequalities highly valued in any industry.
Conclusion: A Promising Opportunity for Indonesia’s Youth
For young people aged 18–30, becoming a seafarer offers financial benefits, global experience, and strong long-term career potential. This profession does not require high educational qualifications, making it accessible to youth from all backgrounds.
Through PT RNT Utama Indonesia, candidates can start their maritime career through a legal, safe, and professional pathway. With transparent processes, complete training, and full protection, PT RNT Utama Indonesia ensures that every seafarer is well-prepared for life at sea.
If you are a young person looking for a career with high income, professional growth, and the opportunity to build a better future, then becoming a seafarer may be the perfect path for you.





