What eyesight is required for deck cadet medical?

Deck duties require stricter visual acuity and colour perception compared to engine roles.

Is colour blindness allowed in seafarer medical?

Complete colour blindness usually disqualifies deck roles. Some partial defects may be acceptable in non-navigational duties.

Is LASIK allowed for ship job?

LASIK may be acceptable after stability period if visual standards meet maritime guidelines.

Eyesight & Colour Vision in Seafarer Medical

Watch this video before your medical to avoid rejection.

Eyesight is one of the most stressful parts of ship medical examination. Many candidates fear rejection due to power, LASIK surgery or colour vision issues. Understanding how maritime fitness is interpreted reduces unnecessary panic.

Why vision standards are strict

Deck officers rely heavily on navigation lights, signal recognition and lookout duties. Engine roles may have slightly different thresholds. Decision depends on operational safety rather than spectacle number alone.

Having spectacles does NOT automatically disqualify a candidate. What matters is corrected vision and colour perception stability.

Common concerns

1. High spectacle power

High refractive error may be accepted if corrected visual acuity meets required standards.

2. LASIK / Refractive surgery

Often acceptable after stability period. Candidates must meet contrast sensitivity and night vision standards.

3. Colour blindness

Complete colour blindness usually affects deck roles. Engine or certain non-navigational duties may differ depending on guidelines and employer policy.

4. Night blindness

This can significantly impact navigational safety and requires careful evaluation.

Important:

Fitness decisions consider safety of vessel, crew and voyage conditions.
Not just eye test numbers.

Before booking medical

Many candidates travel long distance without clarity about visual eligibility. Understanding probable interpretation can help plan appropriately.

Request Eligibility Guidance

Also Read:
Colour Vision Rules for Seafarer Medical — Understanding colour perception requirements for deck and engine duties.

Related Tools:

• Use PEME Risk Self-Assessment Tool
• Review Maritime Medical Guidelines
• Request Structured Case Review

Educational explanation only. Final certification depends on examining authority and applicable regulations.