Embark Maritime Career DFDS: Seafaring Apprenticeship

Are you ready to build a career that takes you beyond the horizon? At DFDS
, we are launching our next wave of Seafaring Apprenticeships
, starting in September 2026
.

We are looking for driven, hands-on individuals who are ready to step onboard, learn fast, and grow into the next generation of maritime professionals.

This is more than an apprenticeship. It is your first step towards a life at sea.

Our programme combines real responsibility at sea with structured academic learning ashore.

• You will train aboard our UK-flagged vessels operating in the Channel
  , while completing classroom-based learning at the National Maritime Training Centre, part of North Kent College in Gravesend, Kent.

• Over 18–24 months
  , you will gain recognised qualifications, practical sea time, and the confidence to operate safely and professionally onboard, developing seamanship skills, safety competence, and operational knowledge.

• Achieve EDH (Efficient Deckhand) on completion, leaving just the required seatime to become a fully qualified Able-Bodied Seafarer (AB).

DFDS is a leading European shipping and logistics company delivering safe, reliable, and increasingly sustainable transport solutions.

With a modern fleet of Roll-On/Roll-Off (Ro-Ro) vessels operating across the UK, Europe, and Turkey, we combine operational excellence with innovation and a strong maritime heritage.

At DFDS, you are not just joining a vessel; you are joining a business that invests in its people. We develop talent, create career pathways, and build leaders for the future.

• Structured training with recognised qualifications

• Real sea‑going experience from day one

• Supportive onboard mentoring

• Clear career progression opportunities

• A strong commitment to developing local talent in Dover and the surrounding areas.

Our apprenticeship scheme is designed to give motivated young people a professional start in a respected and rewarding industry.

To join our programme, you should meet the following criteria:

• Location
  Live in Dover or nearby areas (essential for our 2:1 rotation, which involves walking on and off the vessel).

• Age
  Between 18 and 24 years old.

• Education
  Minimum Grade 5 (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths and English.

• Medical Fitness
  Able to pass an ENG1 Medical Fitness Test.

• Flexibility
  Prepared to live away from home during college phases and onboard during sea phases. Please note that schedules may adjust during peak seasons depending on cabin availability.

• Passport
  Hold a valid passport.

If you are motivated, resilient, and ready to take responsibility, we want to hear from you.

Please submit:

• A short personal statement explaining why you want to join our Seafaring Apprenticeship programme

• A brief CV outlining your education and any relevant experience

Final date to receive applications: 31 August, 2026

Successful applicants who have not previously worked at sea will be required to complete a Sea Legs familiarisation trip.

Your maritime career starts with a single step onboard.

If you are ready to challenge yourself, learn from experienced professionals, and build a future in shipping, this is your opportunity.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard.