Established to address the growing need for maritime professionals, the institution offers a range of training programs, with its flagship being the three-year B.Sc.

Admissions to the institute are conducted through the Combined Entrance Exam (CET) organized by Indian Maritime University.

Historically, India was a renowned sea power, but it lacked facilities to train Indian nationals as merchant navy officers until this period.

The visionary Sir P. S. Sivaswamy Iyer's advocacy led to the Central Government's resolution on 19 March 1926 to establish the Indian Mercantile Marine.

Designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard, Rajendra was equipped to train 250 cadets simultaneously, an increase from the previous 160.

In a forward-looking move, the Government of India established a shore-based maritime academy to enhance training output.

The campus of the Indian Maritime University, Navi Mumbai, encompasses a comprehensive range of facilities designed to support its educational and training programs.

Specialized Laboratories: Including Physics/Electronics, Computer, Seamanship, Navigation, Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), Environmental Sciences, and Marine Engineering Control Station & Chart Room.

These facilities collectively support the university's mission to provide a rigorous maritime education and training experience.