Merchant Navy Ratings need to possess mechanical & technical skills and should be able to work without much supervision. Good technical skills, team working skills and ability to maintain optimum fitness levels are all important. You can be away from your family for several months at a time. Apart from the technical skills of operating ship's navigation systems, they also should possess basic fire fighting skills, and should be able to lead rescue operations in case of an emergency. Ability to taking responsibility and sound understanding of the situations at hand are essential skills. You will also need to work without supervision.