Deckhand (Commercial Inshore Vessel)

Tasks & duties

Deckhands may do some or all of the following:

• assist with berthing, letting go and anchoring the vessel
• assist passengers boarding and departing the vessel
• load and unload passengers' baggage
• are responsible for cleaning toilets and general tidiness on the vessel
• watch for possible hazards on the vessel
• assist the inshore launchmaster in keeping watch for hazards at sea
• carry out emergency procedures
• monitor the engine room including carrying out engine checks and taking readings
• refuel the vessel
• provide advice and information to passengers about their journey and destination
• perform hospitality duties such as preparing and serving food and drink

Skills & knowledge

Deckhands need to have:

• knowledge of rope handling and the use of knots and lashings on a vessel
• knowledge of safety and emergency procedures on a vessel including fire-fighting, abandoning ship, and navigating the vessel in the absence of the inshore launchmaster
• knowledge of the details of the journey and destination to provide information to passengers
• good communication skills for dealing with the public

Entry requirements

To become a deckhand it is preferred that you have an Advanced Deckhand Certificate. You may need up to 12 months of seagoing experience before you can sit this certificate.

Tertiary education

A pre-employment National Certificate in Maritime (Commercial Inshore Vessel Deckhand) Level 2 can be completed. This course contributes towards three months of seagoing experience required to sit the Advanced Deckhand Certificate.

Some positions may also require you to have an Inshore Launchmaster Certificate (for example, positions that require you to be a relieving launchmaster).

Training on the job

Deckhands receive on the job training and may work towards the National Certificate in Maritime (Commercial Inshore Vessel Deckhand) Level 2. They are also required to take an advanced deckhand certificate of competency. Further information regarding seagoing qualifications is available from the Maritime Safety Authority.

Useful experience

Experience as a hospitality crew member at sea or any other form of customer service work, especially in tourism or related service industries, is useful for deckhands. Experience at sea, such as pleasure boating or volunteering for the coastguard, is also useful.

Related courses

Marine Craft Operation

For more information, please refer to Career Services.