A number of different organisations are involved in Shipping Industry activities.

Check them out here:

Marine Society - seafarer's charity providing education, libraries and financial support for the professional development of seafarers.

Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) - professional institution and learned society providing a forum for discussion on engineering matters and to enhance the status of the profession.

Nautical Institute - professional body for qualified mariners, promoting and co-ordinating nautical studies, with branches worldwide.

Chamber of Shipping - trade association for British shipowners and ship managers, promoting the interests of member companies nationally and internationally.

Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) - an executive agency of the DETR, with responsibility for seafarer standards and statutory qualifications.

National Maritime Museum at Greenwich - promotes understanding of the history and future of Britain and the sea, the story of time and the historic sites at Greenwich.

British Marine Equipment Council - represents suppliers of equipment and services in all sectors of the industries involving naval and merchant ships (and fishing vessels), ports and terminal, offshore oil and gas, and pollution prevention and control.

Department for Transport (DfT) - government department formed in 1997 through a merger of the former Departments of Environment and Transport, responsible for shipping policy and marine accident investigations.

Nautilus UK - trade union representing Merchant Navy masters, officers and cadets plus other marine industry professionals.  Information on Slater Fund - funding for rating to officer training.

RMT (National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers) - trade union for transport workers in the UK and Republic of Ireland, representing seafaring rating grades.

STA (Sail Training Organisation) - The Sail Training Association is a registered charity dedicated to the personal development of young people through the sail training experience on Tall Ships.