Pros
-Decent pay. Great benefits. -Expect to save a lot if you are on a ship that is out to sea a lot. -If you are single or don't have any kids, this is the time to save up your money and plan to invest. -You get to see the world. I traveled to 5 countries in 4 months (Dubai, Bahrain, Thailand, Philippines and Mexico). DON'T BLOW ALL YOUR MONEY like a lot of the people on board do. -Lots of overtime, depending on your ship. This is where SU's make their money. The base pay is horrible.
Cons
-Expect to be away from home a lot. that's a given but If you have a family (wife and kids) keep them in mind and stay focused. -My first ship didn't get to see a lot of port time. I was on a tanker for my first ship and we were always at sea. -Dealing with some fake and lazy people. but if you are able to stay focused on your goals, they won't affect you at all. -After being gone for 4 months you only accrue 2 weeks of leave. There are ways to accumulate more leave but you will sacrifice money for paid time home (at your base rate with no overtime)