Hello there,

some of the difficulties faced by female candidates are:

Male dominated industry: Shipping has historically been a male dominated industry and that tradition runs long. One of the reasons as to why women have never taken this career option very seriously is this fact. 

 No or less support: Women generally do not receive adequate support (Both from family and society) to choose seafaring as their career. Educators often do not provide the necessary skills and support to help young women climb the shipping sector ladder

Less Acceptance By Companies: The difficulty of getting access to jobs and professional development in the maritime industry is also a reason for less women seafarers in the maritime sector. Lack of workplace support keeps women out of this career. 

Hope this helps.

GOOD LUCK!!