Carries loose, unpackaged cargo — iron ore, coal, grain — in large box-shaped holds. The most numerous ship type in the world fleet by count.
Size classes
Life aboard
One of the more relaxed cargo trades — long ocean passages, and cargo work is mostly watching cranes or your own gear rather than hands-on handling.
Port time
Often anchors offshore for days waiting for a berth or loading slot, on top of the port time itself.
Courses this trade needs
No cargo-specific endorsement beyond the standard STCW basic safety courses and your rank's Certificate of Competency — see the full course catalogue for what those involve.
Other Dry Cargo
Details last checked 27 Sep 2026. Source: https://www.marineinsight.com/what-are-bulk-carrier-ships/. Individual ships vary — always confirm specifics with your company.
📶 Staying connected
The long anchorage waits are actually good news for connectivity — you're within reach of shore signal for longer than the port stay alone suggests.
📶 eSIM for Mariners
Stay connected wherever this trade takes you — set up your eSIM on the website before you sign on, so it's ready the moment you're in range. Use code SEA10 for 10% off your first order.
eSIM for seafarers →