The Merchant Marine Academy of Mihaniona was established in 1973. The school could accommodate its students in the buildings until recently. The students could also eat in the premises for free. Until 1982 the students had to wear a uniform and obey to the rules of the Academy which were based on military law. There was also a trainer so that the students could work out. In 1980 the Academy won a gold medal in rowing, in Germany.
In the past, the students had to attend courses for 2 years and left for a voyage of about 20 days as apprentices. During the first years, the students' practice was done on the ship from the Eugenidis Foundation, which was a sailing ship that was donated to the academy for this reason.
After 1988 a new system was introduced and from then on students have to do sandwich courses to complete their studies. Now, the studies last for 4 years. The students have to attend courses for 6 semesters at the Academy and do 2 semesters of vocational training as apprent