More than the 9 to 5Careers at sea
Our careers at sea open days give you an insight into what a career in the maritime industry has to offer. You'll be able to find out more about the training programmes necessary to qualify as a ship's navigation, engineer or electro-technical officer in the Merchant Navy and the superyacht industry.
Our next open day is Saturday 04 October 2025
Book nowWhen
- Saturday 4th October 2025
- 9:30am - 2:00pm
Where
The Spark, East Park Terrace, Southampton, SO14 0YN
What to expect
Our careers in maritime open days give you an insight into what a career in the maritime industry has to offer, and the training programmes to qualify as a ship's navigation (deck), engineer or electro-technical officer in the Merchant Navy and on superyachts.
Many of the major British shipping companies and recruitment and training companies who recruit cadets will be available to give information about the career opportunities they offer. Our teaching staff are also on hand to talk about the academic side of training, and current cadets will be able to tell you what training to be a ship's officer is like.
You'll also be able to take a tour of our main East Park Terrace campus and our St Mary's campus, which is where our cadets are taught. You can also see where you could be living with a tour of our student accommodation.
There are general presentations about life as a deck or engineer officer, and you can also speak to our teams about accommodation options, applying and enrolling, student support, and much more!
Got questions?
Contact us by using the email or telephone number below.
Future open days
We host both on-campus and virtual open days throughout the year. To find out what dates are currently available to book, follow the book now link and select your cadetship of interest.
Campus tours
Can’t make our open days but still want to see the campus? Ask us about a campus tour! You will be guided around the university campus by one of our student ambassadors and shown the main facilities. Please note, at this time we are unable to include the residences as part of the tour.
£50Travel voucher
If you attend a physical open day and live outside the local authority of Southampton City Council, or have travelled from outside the UK, you can apply to receive an Amazon voucher towards the cost of travel to the event.
Find out howExhibitors
Many of the major British shipping companies and training management companies who recruit cadets will be available to give you information about the career opportunities they offer and answer any questions you may have. Here is a list of exhibitors who have previously attended our open days:
You'll also be able to attend general presentations about studying with us, as well as speak to our teams about accommodation options, student support, and more.
Interested in a career at sea?
Find out moreFrequently asked questions
Do I need to register?
You do need to register for our open days so we can ensure you receive essential pre-event information. Please use the book now button at the top of the page.Are the companies recruiting for this academic year?
At the next open day, they’ll be looking to mainly recruit for the April 2026 and September 2026 intakes.What facilities can we see when we're there?
You’ll be able to take a tour of our main campus, including our maritime simulation centre. There will also be an opportunity to tour a student residence.Do I need to attend all day?
We're open from 9.30am to 2pm, but you don't need to stay for the duration. We do recommend you allow around two hours to make the most of the opportunities available.I can't make this open day, can I arrange a private visit?
If you're unable to make this open day, why not book on to a campus tour instead? You'll be guided around our university campus and facilities in groups by our Student Ambassadors. More information and a link to book is further up this page.Can I bring a group of students?
Yes. If you're a careers adviser and would like to bring a group of students, please contact us and we'll get in touch to make arrangements.
