Membership in the Council of American Master Mariners
With vessels that are ever larger and more complex, the ability of the Shipmaster to control his/her destiny has seriously eroded. The modern Shipmaster and/or Pilot can find their views and expertise ignored, and in the fast-moving stream of “progress,” the voice of a single Master is easily overwhelmed by the tide of change. CAMM offers a channel to be heard.
CAMM’s Issues Are Your Issues
CAMM is active on issues that are of concern to masters and those working in the maritime industry. CAMM currently has 22 positions of support or opposition to major issues aff ecting mariners. Some current positions focus on the Criminalization of Shipmasters, Ports of Refuge, Watch Stander’s Fatigue & Task-based Manning, and Regulatory Burden on Ship Masters. A CAMM Position is a statement which has been voted on by the membership at CAMM’s Annual General Meeting and expresses the majority opinion of the membership.
CAMM Advances the Professional Profile of Our Industry
CAMM is dedicated to improving maritime and nautical science by promoting the exchange of information and the sharing of experience among professional ship masters and members of allied professions.
CAMM Builds Partnerships
CAMM is devoted to fostering a spirit of common purpose among all organizations whose members believe in the importance of a strong U.S.-Flag Merchant Marine. CAMM works with professional maritime organizations around the world to protect the rights of seamen from all nations.
Representation at IMO through IFSMA
CAMM is a member of the International Federation of Ship Masters Associations (IFSMA), which has consultant status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) of the United Nations. CAMM’s actively sailing masters are automatically enrolled as members of IFSMA.
CAMM Is On Your Side
CAMM is dedicated to promoting an effi cient, prosperous American Merchant Marine. The expertise of CAMM members is recognized throughout the world maritime community. There are frequent requests to provide expert witness testimony in maritime legal cases and opinions on maritime regulations.
CAMM Supports Maritime Education
CAMM supports maritime education through maritime high schools, Sea Scouts, and the support of cadets at maritime academies. Local CAMM chapters lead the effort in educating the public about the Merchant Marine.
Join Forces with America’s Master Mariners
IFSMA Membership Included
If you are an active seagoing Master and a member of CAMM, you are also automatically a member of the International Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations (IFSMA). CAMM pays your membership dues.
This entitles you to all the benefits of IFSMA membership. Should you happen to be involved in a maritime incident outside of the United States, you can contact IFSMA for help and guidance.
IFSMA is also our voice at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Since 1975, IFSMA has had Consultative Status at IMO as a non-governmental organization (NGO). This allows IFSMA to represent the views and protect the interests of seagoing Shipmasters.
Membership Eligibility
The Council of American Master Mariners offers a variety of membership types for masters, pilots, professionals in maritime-related fields, deck officers, and cadets.
Regular Memberships
RU - Unlimited Master Mariner License who commanded vessels over 5,000 GRT on ocean voyages.
RP - Senior or First Class Pilot with minimum of one year experience on vessels 20,000 GRT or more.
Associate Memberships
A - U.S. water transportation company in an executive, administrative or operational capacity, Military Equivalent of Master Mariner, Notable person in maritime related fields.
AL - Licensed Deck Officer with USCG license/credential, Any Gross Tons and currently sailing on vessels over 5,000 GT.
AC - Cadet: Any Cadet/Midshipman attending one of the state maritime academies or the US Merchant Marine Academy.
AF - Foreign Master Mariner: A person holding a foreign Master Mariners unlimited license who has commanded vessels over 5,000 GT.
Special Memberships
S - Unlimited Master’s license but who has not commanded a vessel or vessels of over 5000 GRT on voyages.
SP - Second or Third Class Pilot on vessels less than 20,000 GRT.
S16 - USCG 1600 ton Master’s license who has commanded a vessel or vessels on voyages.
S5 - USCG 500 ton Master’s license who has commanded a vessel or vessels on voyages.
Lifetime Membership
Any member in good standing may apply for Life membership under the following conditions: retired from the maritime industry, over 70 years of age, and has paid total dues equal to or exceeding the amount required since joining the Council. Lifetime members shall retain rights and privileges of the membership class. Lifetime members are dues exempt. All lifetime memberships are subject to the Board of Governor’s approval.
Apply for Membership
Applications for membership in the Council of American Master Mariners are accepted and reviewed year-round. Prospective members may apply either online or by mail.
To apply by mail, please use the button below to download and print an application. Mailed applications should be accompanied by check in the amount of $120 — $100 for annual dues plus a $20 application fee. Mailing instructions are at the bottom fo the application form.
TIP: Even if you plan to apply online, the printable application serves as a handy guide to the information and documents you’ll need to gather.