ZDF format "On Deck": documentary series about training at sea

Seafaring! A profession with adventure, hardship and privation.

On Deck - Training at sea, Photo: ZDF

Not many young people dream of going to sea. This job description seems too far removed from everyday life, life on the high seas too intangible. No office job, no work-life balance - but plenty of responsibility, team spirit and prospects.

Now in the ZDFmediathek: "On Deck - Training at Sea"

Since the 21 March 2025 is in the ZDFmediathek the four-part documentary series "On deck - training at sea" available. It accompanies 14 young people on their way to becoming nautical officers - on board a container ship, in the middle of the Atlantic, eleven weeks away from home.

Who is there?

• Selina (27)Trained physiotherapist - with initial experience of life on board. Now she wants to conquer professional shipping.

• Ansgar (18)One of the youngest - with a lot of enthusiasm for life and work on board.

• Gweny (28)Business graduate - faces the challenges of being a woman in a male domain.

• Jamie (21)Has a fear of heights - and surpasses himself every day.

A profession with a future - but also with challenges

Documentary series about training at sea, photo: ZDF

Almost anyone who is physically and mentally fit can become a seaman or seaman's wife. Technical or commercial professions are a good basis. Provided you have a good education, you can work your way up to captain. There are also entry-level opportunities on land - e.g. at the University of Oldenburg in Elsfleth or at the Mürwik Naval School.

The ZDF provides a great insight into a wonderful profession that is unfortunately no longer so popular in Germany and does not fit in with the regulations and tariffs of the German professional and labour market. But that's another topic. Take a look at the documentary!

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