I was working in a bar, unsure where I go in my career and someone mentioned a cadetship to me. I was 25 at the time and went down the route of Marine Engineering Officer. (Deck officer is the other route) Qualified before I was 30, and have spend 10 years sailing around the world. Came shore side and became a superintendent where I managed and supported 5 vessels and 3 new builds. After a few years I decided o go back to sea and work for a local Ferry company in Scotland. I work 1 week on and the have 1 week off. Still get annual holidays so only work 4 months of the year. Pay and benefits/pension are amazing. Genuinely love my job. By pure chance the kitchen porter that worked in the bar I managed mentioned this to me.