Certificate Course in Maritime Catering (CCMC) – 6 Month Course
Approved Maritime Pre-Sea Training Programme
Approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India | Examinations conducted by the Board of Examination for Seafarers (BES)
The Certificate Course in Maritime Catering (CCMC), popularly known as the Saloon Rating Course, is a DG Shipping-approved pre-sea training programme designed for candidates aspiring to build a career in the Catering and Hospitality Department of the Merchant Navy.
The programme provides professional training in food production, food & beverage service, housekeeping, galley operations, hygiene, hospitality management, and maritime safety. Students are trained to perform catering and accommodation duties onboard merchant ships while maintaining international standards of safety, cleanliness, and customer service.
Upon successful completion of the course, candidates become eligible to join Indian and foreign-going merchant vessels in the Catering Department as entry-level Ratings.
After completion of the course, examinations are conducted by the Board of Examination for Seafarers (BES). Successful candidates become eligible to obtain the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) issued by the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India.
Career Growth Path – Saloon Rating
| Stage | Sea Service / Qualification | Rank / Position |
|---|---|---|
| After Completion of 6-Month CCMC Course | Eligible to join Merchant Navy vessels | Mess Boy / Trainee Steward |
| After Required Sea Service | Promotion based on performance | Assistant Steward |
| With Further Sea Service & Experience | Higher Catering Responsibilities | Steward |
| With Additional Sea Service & Company Assessment | Professional Cooking Duties | Second Cook / Cook |
| Senior Sea Service & Experience | Senior Catering Position | Chief Cook / Chief Steward |
Career Opportunities for Saloon Rating Personnel
Saloon Rating personnel are responsible for food preparation, catering services, housekeeping, accommodation maintenance, and hospitality support onboard merchant ships. Employment opportunities are available on:
With additional sea service, professional experience, and company assessments, candidates can progress to senior catering positions such as Cook, Chief Cook, and Chief Steward.
Admission for Certificate Course in Maritime Catering (CCMC)
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Pass in 10th or 12th Standard from a Government Recognized Board with minimum 40% aggregate marks and minimum 40% marks in English. Institute/Company eligibility criteria may vary. |
| Age Limit | Minimum 17 Years 6 Months and Maximum 25 Years. |
| Medical Standards | Medically fit as per Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules prescribed by DG Shipping. Good eyesight (within prescribed limits), normal hearing and no colour blindness. |
Orientation Course for Catering Personnel: Candidates holding a Degree or Diploma in Hotel Management from a recognized institution may also pursue the Orientation Course for Catering Personnel, subject to DG Shipping eligibility requirements (Age: 18–25 Years, 6-Month Duration).
