Posted on 30th Jul 2025
At Elevate Offshore, we recognise that embarking on your first offshore assignment is a unique and sometimes overwhelming experience. For graduates and newcomers, the prospect of entering one of the world’s most distinctive work environments is both exciting and daunting. The offshore industry offers unparalleled opportunities for global travel, technical depth, and genuine career progression. Understanding what to expect can be a game-changer.
To help prepare those just starting, we spoke with various team members who shared what their first trips offshore were really like: the good, the tough, and why they wouldn’t trade it for anything.
For Offshore Hydrographic Surveyor, Deanna Pengelly, the journey usually starts with a flight to an airport near her destination, where “From there, I might meet some of my team or be met by a driver if I’m travelling alone. We then travel to the joining port together.”
Once aboard, it’s straight into action. Operations move quickly. The team attends client meetings, Toolbox Talks and operational briefings before starting work.
That work involves mobilising and configuring a wide range of high-tech equipment — antennas, gyros, motion reference units, indoor and outdoor PCs, land survey gear and more.
“We’ll often have two shipping containers full of kit, and much of it needs to be installed and positioned with incredible precision. It’s not easy, especially when you’re on top of a helideck in driving wind and rain.”
Arriving at a vessel for the first time can feel like stepping into another world, and even experienced offshore professionals remember the nerves and confusion of that initial trip.
“I did indeed turn up with a huge hard Samsonite suitcase which I could not fit anywhere in my cabin,” recalls Anthony Williams, Technical Manager at Elevate Offshore. “Shirt ironed and a tie… safe to say, neither were needed.”
It’s a common rite of passage to overpack or bring entirely the wrong things. The reality is more boiler suits than boardroom attire. Essentials include sturdy footwear, comfortable workwear, warm layers, toiletries, and something for downtime (such as headphones, books, or a tablet). Space is limited, so packing light and practical is necessary.
The first few hours aboard can be disorienting, as Jack Hutton, Operations Manager at Elevate Offshore, recalls clearly: “I had no idea who was onboard, who I should report to, or where I needed to go. I was told to see the captain and ended up one deck too high, sat next to a guy on a rowing machine who looked at me oddly and told me I needed to be on the Bridge below.”
Vessels vary greatly in layout and routine. Signing on usually involves handing over your passport and Seaman’s Book, finding your cabin, and, of course, securing the all-important Wi-Fi password to let loved ones know you’ve arrived safely on board. Then it’s often a rush to meet your back-to-back before they go off on leave.
“There’s always some trepidation, even for those with years of experience,” Anthony adds. “It takes a few days to find your rhythm, and while it’s not an easy life, it’s strangely addictive.”
Svetlana Klockova, Offshore Surveyor, vividly recalls her first offshore trip. “It was April 2019. I was still at university and went offshore during the Easter break for a geotechnical project using CPT and a vibrocorer — equipment I had never even heard of in my studies.” She spent a significant portion of her first job observing, assisting where she could, and absorbing knowledge at a rapid pace.
“I had to adapt quickly, get used to night shifts, and learn to work within a tight team,” she says. The offshore learning curve is steep, but Svetlana’s experience shows that even with minimal exposure beforehand, it’s possible to succeed through observation, teamwork, and initiative.
The offshore environment is varied and intense. For Willem De Wet, who works as a Data Coordinator, each day brings multiple responsibilities. “I oversee data processors, both onboard and remote, check data quality, liaise with the office and the client, write reports, and troubleshoot issues during a 12-hour shift.”
Although technical expertise is key, Willem also highlights the importance of people skills. “Working with a diverse team of different nationalities and backgrounds presents challenges, but it also builds collaboration and mutual understanding.”
Deanna agrees. “One day, I might be laying cables on deck in overalls; the next, helping tugboats navigate into position. It’s never the same two days in a row. That variety is one of the best parts of the job.”
Living and working in close quarters means you’ll forge strong bonds with your team. “My colleagues have always been amazing,” says Deanna. “I routinely work with people from all over the world. I’ve learned so much about different cultures and made many new friends.”
However, as Svetlana points out, not every interaction is easy. “You can’t expect to be friends with everyone. Sometimes, personalities clash, and it’s essential to remain professional. If that’s not enough, it’s important to escalate issues to someone who can help resolve them.”
Despite occasional challenges, offshore crews often build close-knit support systems. “Reality at home can hit hard, especially when loved ones need you,” Svetlana shares. “But your colleagues are literally in the same boat. You support each other.” This camaraderie is a key part of offshore work, offering reassurance and a sense of belonging.
At Elevate Offshore, we prioritise transparent communication. If you prefer not to work with a specific colleague or client again, we strive to respect those preferences whenever possible.
No offshore role is without its challenging moments. Based on our team’s experiences, here are a few things to prepare for:
Travel demands: Long transfers and irregular schedules can be draining. “I spend a lot of time on the road or in the air,” Deanna says.
Unpredictability: Offshore work is weather-dependent. “Until I’m on the helicopter heading home, I don’t know when I’ll be back,” Deanna admits.
Cabin fever: When waiting for the weather, downtime can drag on. “There are only so many games of pool you can play in a day,” she adds.
Yet the benefits are significant:
Time off: “When I’m not at sea, I’m off completely — that time is mine,” says Deanna.
Travel opportunities: Many offshore professionals have the chance to visit parts of the world they’d never otherwise see.
Real technical growth: “I use the advanced skills I learned at university every day,” Deanna explains. “Each project teaches me something new.”
Stunning views: “The best sunrises and sunsets I’ve ever seen,” she adds.
Team diversity: Willem values the exposure to new perspectives. “You learn a lot, not just technically, but about people.”
Although the industry continues to make progress, women still remain underrepresented in the offshore sector. “Yes, sometimes I am the only woman onboard,” Deanna says. “I’ve been lucky to work with some brilliant female surveyors, but we definitely need more.”
Svetlana’s journey through a male-dominated industry highlights both the challenges and the importance of increasing diversity. Elevate Offshore is committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports talent, regardless of gender or background.
Despite the tough days, all three professionals would encourage others to consider an offshore career. “I absolutely love it,” says Deanna. “Every week, I have several ‘I can’t believe this is my job’ moments.”
Willem echoes the sentiment. “Being away from home is difficult, but the balance of intense work followed by genuine time off makes it worthwhile.”
Svetlana agrees. “You grow fast, and the work is meaningful. It’s not easy, but it’s definitely worth it.”
If you’re looking for a career that challenges you, grows your skills, and takes you to places most people will never see, offshore life might be the perfect fit. At Elevate Offshore, we support our team every step of the way, from the first trip to long-term career development.
Want to find out more? Explore our blog for additional insights, or get in touch to discuss how you could start your offshore journey.
A big thank you to Deanna Pengelly, Svetlana Klockova and Willem De Wet for sharing their experiences with us.
Don't miss out on our company news and latest job vacancies - Subscribe to our newsletter today!
