Seafarer (deck rating)

Level

Intermediate · like GCSEs

Length

1.5 yr

typical

Sector

Transport and logistics

Pay

Paid

you earn while training

In a nutshell

Working as part of the navigation department on ships and other vessels, keeping watch and maintaining safety and security, and carrying out a range of practical tasks.

What you'd do

Stand bridge and deck watches under officer supervision

Carry out mooring and unmooring operations in port

Assist with cargo loading, securing, and discharging

Perform routine maintenance on deck equipment and fittings

Participate in safety drills including fire, man-overboard, and abandon ship

Keep the vessel clean and seaworthy as part of the deck crew

What you'd learn

STCW basic safety training - fire fighting, sea survival, and first aid

Watchkeeping duties on the bridge and deck

Mooring, anchoring, and line-handling procedures

Cargo operations, cargo care, and hatch maintenance

Deck maintenance including chipping, painting, and machinery upkeep

Maritime regulations and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code

Ready to look for a place?

See live Seafarer (deck rating) apprenticeship vacancies on the official government service.

Find vacancies

A Careermash concept · apprenticeship standard from our careers engine · vacancies via gov.uk.