Tug Master
Tasks & duties
Tug masters may do some or all of the following:
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control the tugboat to tow and push ships
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assist in docking ships at wharves
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maintain and refuel the tugboat
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direct the work of the tugboat's crew
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ensure the safety of the tugboat and its crew
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help fight fires or oil pollution at sea
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place buoys to mark hazards at sea
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take part in salvage work
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assist in rescue operations
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tow barges to transport cargo between ports
Skills & knowledge
Tug masters need to have:
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knowledge of tides, waters, coastlines, marine hazards, and the weather, and knowledge of how these factors vary depending on the port or harbour they work in
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navigational skills
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skills to manoeuvre the tugboat to provide the greatest amount of assistance to ships
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knowledge of the harbour's safety procedures, safety rules and codes of practice
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technical skills
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good communication and leadership skills
A general knowledge of maths and physics is helpful.
Entry requirements
To become a tug master you must be at least 18 years old, and usually need a foreign-going certificate such as a New Zealand Offshore Master and an engineering certificate. However, the minimum qualification needed depends on the size of the tugboat and where it operates.
Further information regarding seagoing qualifications is available from the Maritime Safety Authority.
Secondary education
At least three years of secondary education, with good maths and science marks, is required to enter training to become a tug master.
Training on the job
Tug masters learn most of their skills on the job.
Useful experience
Previous seagoing experience is useful for tug masters.
Related courses
Marine Craft Operation
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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