The length of a seafarer's contract can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of vessel they are working on, their job role, and the terms of their employment.
In general, seafarer contracts are typically for a fixed period of time, which is often referred to as the "contract period." The contract period can range from a few months to several years, depending on the circumstances.
For example, a contract for a deck officer working on a merchant vessel might be for a period of six months or one year, while a contract for an engineer working on an offshore oil rig might be for a period of two or three years.
Seafarers may also have the option to renew their contracts once the contract period has ended, depending on the terms of their employment and the needs of the employer.
It is important to carefully review the terms of your employment contract before accepting a position on a ship, to ensure that you understand the length of the contract period and any other terms and conditions that apply. If you have any questions or concerns about the terms of your employment, it is a good idea to discuss them with your employer or a maritime lawyer before accepting the position.