Too Old to become a Merchant Marine?

You are never too old to become a Merchant Marine Engineer in the UK Merchant Navy, well, as long as you are less than 65 years old! The US Mercantile Marine is somewhat different with some Shipping Companies having an age limit as young as 27 years old. It is always advisable in these circumstances to contact several Shipping Companies and Marine Colleges to ensure that you are eligible to apply for a Ship’s Engineer Officers position. There are also strict medicals to be undertaken, as well as academic qualifications required to apply for a Marine Academy Course that can last up to four years. Most US Academies also require a Senator's recommendation before being accepted for a Merchant Marine Engineer Officers course.