​A seaman’s book (also called a seafarer’s discharge book) is an official identity and record document issued by a maritime authority, such as a flag state or national administration under the STCW Convention framework.

The purpose of a seaman’s book (discharge book) is to act as an official record of a seafarer’s sea service and employment history. It documents every vessel you work on, your rank, and your joining and leaving dates, which is essential for proving sea time when progressing under the STCW Convention. It is also used for identification when joining or leaving ships internationally and serves as a trusted record that employers, authorities, and inspectors can verify.

In simple terms, it’s your career logbook at sea and proof of experience.

​

All authorities require the individual applying for a seamans discharge book to have all required documentation up to date. The most essentials are a copy of a valid passport, COC, STCW basic courses and Valid seafarers medical certifi