What will you do?
You assist with mooring and casting off, operate the ship's equipment and keep watch over the navigation. You load and unload cargo, check that the loading and unloading are done correctly and carry out the daily maintenance on board. The role is also known as deckhand, merchant navy sailor or able seaman, and you always work to the regulations and safety rules.
- Help moor and cast off the ship
- Operate the ship's equipment
- Keep watch over the vessel's navigation
- Load and unload cargo
- Check that loading and unloading are done correctly
- Carry out daily maintenance on the ship and its installations
Skills to develop
- Physical fitness and comfort with life at sea
- Team spirit and reliability during long shifts
- Ability to follow maritime regulations and safety rules
- Basic technical skills for onboard installations
Your foundation for this occupation
Ask about the deck role and required certificates. Recognised maritime training, documents and medical fitness form part of the pathway; details depend on role and vessel. A recreational licence does not replace professional seafaring qualifications. Confirm with the company and maritime authority.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Learn vessel layout, communication and crew duties. Practise assigned deck work under supervision using onboard procedures. Record maintenance and checks. Navigation support does not transfer an officer's responsibility to you.
Check your work
Check assigned equipment and report wear promptly. Hand over work between watches clearly. Colleagues at sea rely on accurate information. Discuss shared living, irregular rest and limited privacy at interview.
How can you grow?
Progress through training, sea service and certificates. Ask about vessel type, voyage length, rotation and supervision. Cargo, passenger and other ships have different routines; compare work patterns, not just destinations.
Frequently asked questions
Does a leisure boating licence qualify me as a professional deckhand?
It does not replace professional requirements. Ask the company for training, certificates and medical documents and verify with the competent authority.