Malta has a strong maritime tradition. In recent years, this nation of sailors has continued to build on its tradition. In fact, 2014 statistics show how the Malta maritime flag is now the largest in Europe and sixth largest in the world, up from seventh place in 2013. The Maltese register has also continued to increase gross tonnage, attract younger vessels, and develop its legislation.

On the educational front, the MCAST Maritime Institute attracts both local and foreign students and is the only institution in Malta accredited with the education and training of seafarers. With various courses available, it offers young men and women the chance to embark on a career at sea as officers and ratings in the merchant navy.

The Maritime Institute is based at the former home of the Admiral of the Fleet: this large villa is set in its own grounds overlooking Kalkara creek. Such links to the past make it a fitting location. The Maritime Institute director, Aurelio Micallef Grimaud, explains that the quay originally came right up to the entrance gate of the villa: the admiral would simply walk down the steps and board his ship moored alongside to carry out inspections in neighbouring waters.

Today’s seafarers may have a lot more to deal with from the technological aspect but traditional methods such as chart reading and navigation still remain an important part of their training.

The four sea cadets I meet are all reading for the Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch course. This is a three-year course: at the end of the second year, cadets undertake a year at sea.

Jasmine Camilleri from Mosta and Lourde Marie Agius from Zebbug are both 18 years old and are two of the five female cadets currently studying at the institute. They are in their second year of the Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch course, having previously completed a one-year Probationary Officer Cadet course.

When Camilleri finished her secondary school studies, it was a choice between pursuing her A-level studies or doing something different. A gently spoken young woman, she explains how she carefully considered the pros and cons before going for a maritime career: the deciding factors were the possibility of travelling and always being on the move. In the short term her sights are set on finishing the course before thinking of working in the commercial sector.

“My parents were initially surprised at my choice but were happy for me when they saw that I was determined,” she says. “Last summer I managed to gain more practical experience by working in the powerboat sector and also as a deck hand on a super yacht.”

Agius had initially decided to become a teacher. Then a year into the course, she realised that her studies bored her. Her family were initially surprised but were also supportive of her decision to pursue a career at sea.

“The course is really interesting although there is a lot to learn,” she says before adding that she would like to get more practical experience. “I enjoy all aspects but it’s the general ship knowledge that interests me most. After I graduate I would like to work on cargo ships and tankers.”

Sharun Urpani, 18, is from St Julian’s and has always been interested in maritime studies.

An ability to assume responsibility and a sense of adventure are definitely needed

“After plenty of thought, I finally decided on this career as there was no one in the family who had ever done anything like this. My mother is from Pakistan and we are a close-knit family. Initially my parents were not very happy about my decision but I was determined and they respected that. I studied for the necessary qualifications and now I’m really looking forward to the next phase of actually working on a ship.”

Urpani is ambitious and strikes me as a determined young man. He plans to work in the container ship and bulk carrier sector. He also hopes to one day reach the rank of captain: this is no easy task as the minimum age for holding such a rank is 28 years of age. A long road of accumulating sea hours and many more qualifications lies ahead of him.

At 17, Tyron Delia from Attard is the youngest of the cadets I meet.

“I originally intended to study to become a maritime engineer,” he says. “However, while I was studying for my A-levels I realised that it wasn’t the right career for me.”

“I spent a lot of time researching online and spoke to a number of guidance teachers before deciding on this career. I started the course last September and although it’s tough, I’m really enjoying it and I’m looking forward to getting more hands-on experience.

“At first my family weren’t that enthusiastic about my choice as they knew that my studies and eventually my career would take me away from home for long stretches of time. However, they eventually got used to the idea. I also hope to make captain one day and at the moment I like the idea of working onboard a private yacht rather than cargo or passenger ships.”

Lara Falzon, 23, from Mellieha, graduated in 2011 and has since been working at Hansa shipping. She has just embarked on a one-year chief officer course to further her career.

“After graduating in 2011, I joined Hansa as a third officer and have now been promoted to second officer. Working in the cargo industry means that we are away for four months at a time. So far my work has taken me to Northern Europe, West Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, Taiwan, Tahiti, Honolulu, Mexico and the West Coast of America.

“This isn’t just a job: it’s a way of life. You’re either suited to it or you’re not. As crews and captains are constantly changing, you have to familiarise yourself with new people and be open to different methods of practice.

“Being open minded is especially important as it’s an industry where you never stop learning regardless of rank. There is a vast amount of knowledge out there and it’s also important to keep up with new regulations as the shipping industry is constantly changing and evolving. For instance, environmental issues are a major consideration at the moment with a reduction of the sulphur content in fuel being a recent development.”

As for the qualities needed to fulfil the role of officer all agree that it’s a career that requires strength of character.

“It’s not something that will suit everyone as it can mean long periods away from home and requires the candidate to deal with many things that they wouldn’t have to face in a more conventional line of work,” says Micallef Grimaud. “An ability to assume responsibility and a sense of adventure are definitely needed.”

However, for those who rise to the challenge, the rewards are good. Life as a maritime officer offers many things including good promotion prospects and an attractive financial package. Moreover, for those seeking adventure, a career at sea can provide an opportunity to enjoy many extraordinary experiences while visiting distant lands.