Levan Iasamnidze – BNTU Graduate and Maritime Professional

Levan Iasamnidze, 24, is currently serving as Third Officer (Third Mate) aboard the vessel FLAGSHIP ORCHID, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag.
Company: Prime Tanker Management

He is a graduate of the Bachelor’s Educational Program in Maritime Navigation at Batumi Navigation Teaching University (2016–2021). During his studies, he was an outstanding student and was elected Vice President of the Student Self-Government.

Today, Levan also works as an instructor at the university’s International Seafarers Training Center and continues his education as a Master’s student in Transport Logistics at BNTU.

  Why I Chose This Profession

Choosing a profession is one of the most important decisions in life. It shapes your future. When I became an applicant, I kept asking myself: Where do I feel most comfortable?

I have always loved the sea. The maritime profession seemed exciting to me — diversity, traveling to different countries, communicating with people from various cultures, a bit of risk and adrenaline. All of this attracted me deeply. I did not hesitate long and decided to follow this path. That is how I found myself at Batumi Navigation Teaching University and in this profession.

Me and the Sea

I cannot imagine feeling anything but love toward the sea. You must truly love it; otherwise, you cannot endure this profession. Without the sea, perhaps I would have become a doctor, economist, or lawyer.

What Being a Seafarer Means to Me

First and foremost, it means endurance. It also involves risk, patience, dedication, effort, hard work, time, motivation, and travel.

My First Voyage

Now I remember it with a smile. My first voyage was filled with tension and fear. During rolling, I would hold onto everything to avoid falling. Gradually, I adapted.

My Motivator

Myself. I constantly try to compete with who I was yesterday — to become better tomorrow than I am today.

Pros and Cons of the Profession

There are many advantages, but I will start with the challenges. The hardest part is being away from loved ones and missing your country. Working in a stressful environment can also be demanding.

However, the positives balance it out: traveling to numerous countries, seeing remarkable places, experiencing different cultures, financial stability, and a well-paid career. Not everyone has this opportunity.

Advice for Future Seafarers

• Languages are essential. Strong language skills open many doors.

• Work hard — seafaring is not only about traveling.

• Safety is the top priority on board.

• Represent Georgia with dignity — you are the face of your country.

• Love your profession — this is the key to success.

And finally, I wish all seafarers fair winds and following seas.