How hard would it be to go from MSC to ECO?

**acdcrocks73** · January 28th, 2013, 01:49 AM

Hey All,

I've been with MSC for the last 4 years since I retired from the Navy. It's 4 years I'll never get back and need something better than spending 8-10 months a year gone from my family. I'm currently sailing 3rd Assistant Engineer. I'm looking at Chouest as most people have a favorable opinion of them. Anything has to be better than 120/30!

I have the following:

1. 2 AE Unlimited HP Motor/Gas Turbine
2. STCW-95 Officer In Charge of Watch Team
3. TWIC
4. PSC (Proficiency in Survival Craft)

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Chris

**SeaScoundrel** · January 28th, 2013, 05:57 AM

I work for Harvey instead of Eco and on the deck side. I went from MSC to hear last year and found it was a pretty easy move. Things move at a much slower pace. I doubt you'll have a problem gettin a job at ECO...but If that doesn't work out...Harvey has a huge need for more engineers.

Harvey's in desperate need of mates as well if anyone out there is looking around.

**acdcrocks73** · January 28th, 2013, 11:07 AM

Thanks SeaScoundrel. I'm planning my escape from here. I want to get out before I get too much time invested. Appreciate the ifo.

**brjones** · January 28th, 2013, 11:13 AM

Originally Posted by acdcrocks73

Thanks SeaScoundrel. I'm planning my escape from here. I want to get out before I get too much time invested. Appreciate the ifo.

Another option would be to join MEBA. There is some sort of clause that allows MSC guys in without paying the 4k initiation fee. There are a lot of 2nds and 3rds jobs these days. Even more 1st jobs. Its not the GOM 30/30 but usually its between 60 and 90 off and on. Day for day you will make a lot more than MSC as well.

**acdcrocks73** · January 28th, 2013, 10:22 PM

Thanks brjones,

I think after we start paying dues to MEBA and sail 300+ days we can get get our Book II or something to that effect. I was thinking of going union, just want to explore all my options. MSC just wears you down mentally and need to find something better. Again thanks for the info.

**Too bad steam is gone** · January 29th, 2013, 06:16 PM

Originally Posted by acdcrocks73

Thanks SeaScoundrel. I'm planning my escape from here. I want to get out before I get too much time invested. Appreciate the ifo.

I got out MSC in 1985 and never regretted it. More money/ less bullshit/ you are what you are/ the US merchant marine will judge you, if you are a fuck up the rest of the US Merchant fleet will know. There are maybe 2K of us out here and we all know each others reputatation.