CCMC
Frequently Asked Questions

The Certificate Course in Maritime Catering (CCMC) is a 6-month DG Shipping-approved pre-sea training programme that prepares candidates to join the Merchant Navy in the Catering and Hospitality Department aboard commercial vessels, offshore platforms, and cruise liners.

 

No. The CCMC is one of the few maritime courses that does not require Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics. Students from Science, Commerce, and Arts backgrounds are all equally eligible — making it a truly accessible maritime career pathway.

Candidates must have passed the 10th Standard from a recognised board with a minimum of 40% aggregate marks and a minimum of 40% marks in English in the 10th or 12th standard. Candidates who have passed 12th Standard from any stream, or who hold a Degree or Diploma in Hotel Management, are also eligible.

The minimum age is 17.5 years and the maximum age is 25 years on the date of commencement of the course.

Candidates must obtain a Medical Fitness Certificate from a DG Shipping-approved doctor. Distance vision of 6/6 is required with no colour blindness. Candidates must be free from hearing impairments and any medical conditions that would affect their ability to perform shipboard duties.

No. CCMC admissions are based on educational qualification, the DG Shipping medical examination, and a basic screening process at the institute. No common entrance exam is required.

The CCMC is a 6-month fully residential pre-sea training programme at AMTCR Pali Mumbai, inclusive of all STCW safety training.

The programme covers Food Production and Galley Operations, Bakery and Confectionery, Food and Beverage Service, Housekeeping and Hygiene, Maritime English and Communication, Basic Seamanship and Ship Familiarisation, STCW Basic Safety Certification, and Physical Training including swimming and emergency drills.

On successful completion and passing the All India Exit Examination conducted by BEST under DG Shipping, candidates receive a CCMC Course Completion Certificate, STCW Basic Safety Certificates (PST, FPFF, EFA, PSSR), Security Training Certificate, INDOS Registration, and a Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).

Graduates join as Trainee Cook, Trainee General Steward, Messman, or Pantry Utility aboard Indian or foreign vessels. With sea service and experience, rapid promotion is possible to the roles of Assistant Cook, Second Cook, Ship’s Cook, Chief Cook, and ultimately Catering Officer.

Yes. Cruise liners and passenger ships are among the most prestigious postings available to CCMC graduates. Most freshers begin their career on cargo or offshore vessels to accumulate sea experience, and cruise line placements typically follow after 1–2 years of satisfactory sailing.

On joining, trainee catering crew typically earn between $200 and $600 per month. With 2–3 years of sea service, earnings rise to $800–$1,500 per month as a Ship’s Cook, and senior positions such as Chief Cook or Catering Officer command $2,000–$3,500 per month.

Yes, if you spend 183 or more days at sea in a financial year and qualify as a Non-Resident Indian, your seafaring income is tax-free under Indian tax law.

Yes. The CCMC is fully residential. All cadets are required to stay on campus throughout the training period.

Yes. AMTCR assists eligible candidates with educational loan applications through nationalised banks, providing the required admission and enrolment documentation.

Yes. The CCMC programme is fully open to both male and female candidates who meet the DG Shipping eligibility requirements. The catering and hospitality department of the Merchant Navy offers equal career opportunities regardless of gender.

Absolutely. Candidates with a Degree or Diploma in Hotel Management are specifically recognised as eligible for the CCMC under DG Shipping guidelines. Your hospitality background gives you a strong foundation for a maritime catering career and may provide an advantage during the training programme.

AMTCR provides active placement support through campus placement drives, connections with shipping companies, crewing agencies and cruise line operators, CDC and INDOS registration guidance, and alumni network support.

CCMC batches commence in January and July each year. Early application is advised to secure a seat in the preferred batch.

GP Rating trains candidates for both Deck and Engine departments — the operational and technical core of a vessel. CCMC trains candidates specifically for the Catering and Hospitality Department. Both are 6-month DG Shipping-approved courses accessible after the 10th standard, but CCMC is particularly suited to candidates with an interest in cooking, hospitality, and service.