HAWSEPIPER

A Hawsepiper is someone who has worked his way up the ranks to become a Captain or officer of a Merchant Ship of Unlimited Tonnage. To become an officer through this route one needs to sail as an OS (Ordinary Seaman) and then AB (Able Seaman) for a minimum number of years. After acclimating enough seatime, taking the required courses, and completing on board assessments he can then apply to the United States Coast Guard (or foreign equivalent) for a Third Mate License. If approved he must then successfully pass a comprehensive license examination before being issued a License.

The more traditional way to become a Licensed Officer is by going to a Maritime College.

See also

Maritime Colleges in the United Sates:

• California Maritime Academy
• Maine Maritime Academy
• Massachusetts Maritime Academy
• State University of New York Maritime College
• United States Merchant Marine Academy
• Texas Maritime Academy
• Great Lakes Maritime Academy