Numero Crunchero
it will still take around 9years to get to CN but as a DEFO you will be earning more money than following the SO/FO path.
I think you will find that most direct entry DESO’s will be better off after Tax in Hong Kong than a DEFO pax or freighter guy on a base earning base pay after tax. I do accept though that it could be tough for a married guy with kids of school age in Hong Kong on an SO wage.