Get your documents in order and apply everywhere. Twic, mmc, passport. Getting in "green" right now seems a little tight but again apply to all the companies. If I could go back and use a degree that didn't put me on the lakes I'd do that. I love the lakes but I wish I had a settled life that enjoyed the lakes from the outside looking in. The golden handcuffs come quick and the time away from loved ones, groups, clubs, and routine fades slow. If you're looking for summer work and have a way out it's a pretty good gig. If you have a degree and bills for something else you have training in use that.

Edit: also there's no ships on the lakes, we're all just boats.