West Africa is where a significant number of seafarers get their first offshore contract. The barriers to entry are lower than North Sea. The pay is below North Sea levels. For people trying to build the offshore experience record, it is a practical route.
**Why West Africa Works as an Entry Point**
North Sea offshore operators generally want candidates with prior OSV experience. West African operators are more willing to take people transitioning from cargo ships, provided the safety certifications are in place. Six months of documented OSV sea time in West Africa changes how North Sea applications are received.
The operational environment is genuinely offshore. DP operations, cargo deck work, close-quarters manoeuvring near installations. The experience translates directly to more competitive markets.
**The Certificates**
BOSIET or regional equivalent covers the core offshore survival requirement. Some operators in West Africa accept certificates that would not be valid for North Sea operations. Checking the specific requirement before applying avoids wasted travel.
Standard STCW certificates apply as in any offshore region.
**Pay Comparison**
West Africa PSV second officer: $4,000 to $6,500 per month.
North Sea PSV second officer: $6,000 to $9,000 per month.
West Africa AHTS master: $8,000 to $12,000 per month.
North Sea AHTS master: $13,000 to $19,000 per month.
The gap is real. It is also the reason West Africa has less competition from experienced North Sea officers for entry-level positions.
**Rotation Patterns**
28/28 is common. Some West African operations run longer rotations of 35/35 or 60/60, particularly in regions where crew change logistics make shorter rotations less practical. Confirm the rotation before signing.
**The Operators**
Tidewater, DOF, Bourbon, Siem Offshore and several regional operators run significant West African OSV fleets. Crewing agencies with specific West African relationships are the most efficient route rather than applying to operators directly.