Merchant Marine

Navigators of Global Trade and Maritime Operations

The merchant marine refers to the men and women who work on commercial vessels involved in international trade and maritime operations. They play a vital role in facilitating global commerce by ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods and materials across the world's oceans and waterways.

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Prerequisites: Constitution 5+ or Strength 4+

First Term:

Commission: 6+, +1 if EDU 7+, +1 if INT 8+. receives a commission. A commission makes the character an office; all other characters are enlisted.
Skills:
Large Watercraft 2
Navigation 2
Small Watercraft 2
Swimming 2
(Officer) Admin/Legal 2
(Officer) Leadership 2
(Enlisted) Electronics 1
(Enlisted) Mechanic 1
Pulling Strings: Accomplices

Subsequent Terms:

Commission: 9+, +2 if INT 8+, +2 if CHA 8+
Skills:
Gambling
Large Watercraft
Navigation
Slug Weapons (Pistol)
Small Watercraft
Survival
Swimming
(Officer) Admin/Legal
(Officer) Leadership
(Officer) Recruiting
(Officer) Willpower
(Enlisted) Electronics
(Enlisted) Mechanic
Pulling Strings: One of the following: Customs Analysis, Ear to the Ground, NMID Support

All Terms:

Contacts: One per term: Business, Law Enforcement or Specialist (Merchant Marine). On a 1D10 roll of 6+, the contact is foreign.
Promotion: 6+, +1 if EDU 8+.
Resource Points: Officer) 1 per Term +1 if Promotion Rolled
Influence Type: Civilian
Other Effects: Two secondary activities allowed per term

Special Adventure:

--Fought off Pirates--
On a 1D10 roll of 8+
Skills:
Armed Martial Arts (cascade: Large Blade, Small Blade, Polearm, Club)
Slug Weapons (cascade: Slug Pistol, Slug Rifle)
Stealth
Thrown Weapon
Unarmed Martial Arts
Willpower

Impact and Importance:

The merchant marine plays a vital role in supporting global trade and economic growth. Merchant mariners facilitate the transportation of goods, raw materials, and energy resources across the world's oceans, ensuring the availability of essential commodities and sustaining international commerce.

Merchant mariners contribute to the stability and security of nations by supporting national defense efforts and maintaining strategic supply chains. They assist in the transportation of military equipment, humanitarian aid, and natural resources, enabling countries to respond to crises and meet their domestic and international commitments.

The merchant marine profession offers valuable employment opportunities and career paths for seafarers. It contributes to economic development in coastal regions, stimulates job creation in related industries, and fosters cultural exchange through interactions with diverse international crews.

It is important to recognize and address the challenges faced by merchant mariners, including long periods away from home, potential safety hazards, and mental well-being. Efforts should be made to ensure fair working conditions, adequate training, and access to support services for seafarers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Seafaring Expertise: Merchant mariners possess comprehensive knowledge of maritime operations, navigation, and shipboard procedures. They are skilled in operating and maintaining various types of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, container ships, and bulk carriers.
• Navigational Skills: Merchant mariners are proficient in celestial and electronic navigation, chart reading, and the use of navigational instruments. They accurately plot courses, monitor weather conditions, and make critical decisions to ensure the safe and efficient passage of their vessels.
• Cargo Operations: Merchant mariners oversee the loading, stowing, and unloading of cargo on their vessels. They ensure that cargo is properly secured, follow safety protocols, and comply with international shipping regulations. Merchant mariners collaborate with port personnel and customs officials to facilitate smooth cargo operations.
• Emergency Response and Safety: Merchant mariners are trained in emergency procedures and safety protocols. They conduct regular safety drills, maintain firefighting and lifesaving equipment, and are prepared to respond to emergencies such as vessel collisions, medical incidents, or adverse weather conditions.
• Communications and Teamwork: Merchant mariners effectively communicate with fellow crew members, port authorities, and other vessels. They work collaboratively in multi-national and multi-cultural environments, fostering teamwork and cohesion on board. Clear communication is essential for safe navigation, cargo operations, and emergency response.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Merchant mariners demonstrate adaptability and resilience, as they spend long periods away from home and face challenging conditions at sea. They possess strong problem-solving skills, resourcefulness, and the ability to cope with the physical and mental demands of their profession.