The starting salary of crews varies between Rs 15,000 to Rs 45,000 a month. A person gets a variety of benefits such as free food, accommodation, paid leave, two-way free passage and facilities for families. In other words, the salary can be saved totally while one is on the ship. The perquisites include bonus, holiday travel and other annual benefits. Foreign companies pay higher, and a starting salary to officers varies from $ 1,500 to $ 12,500. Salary can be expected more. Since the job involves going abroad for extended periods, one can take advantage of becoming an NRI and earn tax-free income.