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CAREERS & TRAINING

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CREW


Follow the links to find out how to become a Vessel Operator and how to become the Master or Skipper of a commercial vessel.


The crew of a boat undertake the essential work to allow the vessel to operate at sea. The duties of crew can vary widely, depending on the type and size of vessel.


On smaller commercial vessels the crew may be involved in every aspect of the vessel’s operations, including rope handling, keeping watch, navigating, assisting with loading and unloading passengers and cargo, maintenance, cleaning and even basic cooking.


On larger commercial vessels crews tend to specialise in just one of those areas.


Many crew start as trainees on board and work their way to more specialised roles by gaining experience and undertaking specific courses.


There are opportunities to receive excellent crew training as you work in both the Royal and Merchant Navy. You can also train to work as a crew member in the Superyacht industry.

Qualifications and Training

There are so many opportunities and job paths if you want to work at sea.


You can learn as you work, by applying to become a member of a vessel’s crew, go to college to undertake specific courses, such as a Diploma in Sea Fishing or Deck Rating in the Merchant Navy or take up an apprenticeship.


Once working as a crew member there are also great opportunities to progress in your career and to increase your wages.


You could work towards becoming a skipper. Inshore skippers can operate their own small boat (up to 16.5m). Further training is needed for larger vessels.


It’s a good idea to get some core qualifications at GCSE level but some skippers and companies that operate vessels will consider training you as a crew if you show a real interest in working at sea.


Getting experience of working at sea in a safe and structured way is always a good idea.


If you are working on larger commercial vessels, you will need to have a medical examination. This is to prove that you are in good enough health and fitness to carry out your duties.


Salary Brackets

From around £18,000 - £26,000 with experience and qualifications


Colleges/Universities

Merchant Navy
https://www.careersatsea.org/careers/

Royal Navy
https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/careers/role-finder

UKSA
https://uksa.org/course/professional-training/superyachts/superyacht-deckhand-course/

Warsash Maritime School
https://maritime.solent.ac.uk/superyacht-training

SeaRegs Training Ltd
www.searegs.co.uk

Maritime Skills Academy
https://www.maritimeskillsacademy.com/

National Maritime Training Centre
https://www.northkent.ac.uk/commercial-courses/national-maritime-training-centre

Offshore Marine
http://www.offshore-marine.co/

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 GOOD TO KNOW
Your working environment may be physically demanding, outdoors in all weathers, cramped and you may spend nights away from home.
Intermediate apprenticeships
Intermediate apprenticeships are the entry-level apprenticeship for those looking to make a start in the world of work. Available to anyone from the age of 16, with no maximum age limit, they’re also a great option for anyone looking to make a career change. You’ll need five GCSEs grade A*-E/ 3-9 including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role, or two National 4s including Maths and English (or equivalent).
Advanced apprenticeships
You can apply for an advanced apprenticeship if you have five GCSEs or National 4 (or equivalent), including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role, or you’ve completed an intermediate apprenticeship or similar Level 2 qualification. They’re full-time roles, with a competitive salary and they’re a great way to develop specialist skills.
Higher apprenticeships
Higher apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 18 who is looking for an alternative to attending university. You’ll need at least five GCSEs or National 5 + Highers (or equivalent) including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role. Additionally, you’ll require a minimum of two A levels or a level 3 equivalent qualification.
Degree apprenticeships
Degree apprenticeships are great for 18–19-year-old school leavers looking to gain a degree while also starting their career journey. It’s the perfect option for those who can’t decide between an apprenticeship and university. They’re also a great option for anyone looking to make a career change.

SEAWORK 2026 DATES & TIMES
09:30 - 17:30 Tuesday 9 June 2026
09:30 - 17:30 Wednesday 10 June 2026
09:30 - 16:00 Thursday 11 June 2026

SEAWORK 2027 DATES
Tuesday 15 June 2027
Wednesday 16 June 2027
Thursday 17 June 2027