About Capt. Subramaniam
In a May 2025 interview, Krishnan Subramaniam, Chief Executive Officer of Fleet Management Limited, discussed the transition of senior seafarers such as captains and chief engineers to shore-based commercial shipping roles. He stated that seafarers should not expect to match their onboard earnings when moving ashore, noting that "at shore you will be earning lesser at least in the beginning stages." He described the decision as a personal trade-off between income and quality of life, adding that those considering the move must be "psychologically prepared" for reporting to someone else after holding command at sea.
Subramaniam also said that commercial shipping is "where the real money lies" and suggested it offers opportunities to start businesses. He observed that the average period of sailing has decreased compared to a decade ago, citing personal, management, and pressure-related reasons. He advised seafarers to take a "leap of faith" and trust themselves when pursuing shore-based careers.
Source: AI-verified profile updated from Capt. Subramaniam's recent appearances.
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Transcript (7 segments)
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Subramaniam0:00
First of all, you cannot compare the earnings which you're getting on board versus at shore. At shore, you will be earning lesser at least in the beginning stages. So, you have to be prepared.
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Interviewer0:11
Sir, why should a captain or a chief engineer, chief officer, a second engineer who are earning in lakhs come for commercial shipping? Besides, they do not want to continue sailing; they want to quit because it messes up their personal and family lives. That might be one reason, and the second is they are feeling... So, what is your take?
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Subramaniam0:39
I mean, if I understood your question correctly, that's a personal choice. If I look at captains, master mariners, chief engineers I interacted with 10 years back versus now, one thing is clear: the average sailing period has come down drastically. I have captains and master mariners who sailed till age 60; that was their choice. But today, reasons are multifold: personal, management pressures at sea. Therefore, the average period is down to maybe 11 to 12 years where you get command, show it on CV, then come ashore. Preparation must start in advance; you can't start job hunting after quitting. You realize you need additional qualifications. Having command at sea is an advantage, but commercial skills are different. Sea experience is definite, but not enough alone; that's the gap. You must realize the gap exists and prepare well in advance.
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Interviewer2:26
Again, this was a question from a captain. I am earning $12,000 a month, around 10 lakh per month in India. Working 6 months, I earn 60 lakhs; even 4 months gives 40 lakhs. After taxes, 30 lakhs in hand, which is 2.5 lakhs per month—good enough. If I enter commercial shipping, money is motivating. After 5 years of struggle, will I make up for lost time and grow more? How does it work, sir?
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Subramaniam3:06
First, you cannot compare on-board earnings to shore; shore earnings are less initially. Are you ready to compromise money for better quality of life? If so, be clear about the trade-off. In business, trade-offs exist: money versus time, convenience, comfort. You must choose from the start, as starting shore salary won't match ship earnings. That's key. Suppose you start as a junior engineer in commercial shipping. After 7-8 years, if hardworking and good at networking, can you reach high levels? Commercial shipping is competitive, but success depends on passion, determination, and focus. For example, a friend Captain Ayar sailed on tankers, retired as VP, started a successful ship agency. Many have started businesses after leaving sea. If you understand commercial shipping, where real money lies, you can do well. Go with leap of faith, trust yourself, and give your best shot.
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Subramaniam5:46
One more thing: if taking a job ashore, be prepared. At sea, you have command; ashore, you report to someone. This adjustment is key. Functional skills like chartering or broking are important, but also mental transition. I've found training programs to help with psychological and mental health aspects of moving from ship to shore.
