How to Be Boat Deckhand - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 4, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Boating is an incredibly enjoyable activity, and having a deckhand can make it even more so. Deckhands are responsible for maintaining the boat and its equipment, as well as helping passengers and crew with activities such as loading and unloading supplies, cleaning and sanitation, navigating, and providing assistance during emergency situations. By having a deckhand on board, a boat's crew can enjoy the journey with peace of mind knowing that their journey is in capable hands.

Furthermore, having a deckhand can increase safety by ensuring that the boat is properly maintained, that engine and navigational systems are functioning correctly, and that emergency protocols are in place. it allows for more people to be on board, as the deckhand can help with tasks that would have otherwise been done by the crew. having a deckhand on board is a great way to maximize the enjoyment of boating trips while also increasing safety.

Steps How to Become

Get a High School Diploma or GED. Most boat deckhand positions require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. This will demonstrate to boat captains and employers that you are prepared to handle the responsibilities of the job.
Acquire a Boating Safety Certificate. Most boat deckhand positions require applicants to have a boating safety certificate. The requirements for the certificate vary by state, but they typically include completing a boating safety course and passing an exam.
Get On-the-Job Training. Many boat deckhand positions require some type of on-the-job training. This could be in the form of an internship or apprenticeship, or it could be shadowing another more experienced boat deckhand.
Obtain Physical Strength and Stamina. Boat deckhands need to be physically fit in order to handle the labor-intensive tasks associated with the job. This means having the strength and stamina to lift heavy objects, clean the decks, and stand for long periods of time.
Acquire Knowledge of Boat Maintenance. Boat deckhands need to have an understanding of basic boat maintenance and repairs. This includes knowledge of how to check fluid levels, change oil, and make minor repairs.

Boating is a popular recreational activity, and a reliable and capable deckhand is necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. To become a reliable and capable deckhand, one must possess certain characteristics such as strong communication skills, knowledge of boating safety regulations, and physical fitness. Good communication skills are essential in order to understand and take orders from the captain, as well as to effectively communicate with other crew members.

Knowing the boating safety regulations will help the deckhand anticipate potential hazards and act quickly to prevent dangerous situations. Furthermore, being physically fit and having the strength to perform the required tasks is essential for a deckhand. If one has these qualities, they can be a reliable and capable deckhand, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

You may want to check Boat Launch Operator, Boat Washer, and Boat Painter for alternative.

Job Description

Greet passengers and assist them in boarding the boat.
Ensure the safety of all passengers and crew aboard the vessel.
Operate the deck machinery, including winches and lines.
Perform routine maintenance and cleaning tasks on the vessel.
Assist the captain in navigating the vessel.
Fuel and provision the vessel.
Monitor the bilges, pumps, and other systems for any abnormalities.
Receive and store supplies on board the vessel.
Monitor the weather and sea conditions for any changes.
Assist in anchoring and mooring the vessel.
Assist in launching and retrieving tenders and other watercraft.
Perform routine repairs to the deck, railings, and other components of the vessel.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expertise in sailing and navigation
Proficient in operating deck machinery, such as winches, windlasses, and davits
Familiarity with safety regulations and procedures
Knowledge of anchoring, knot tying, and line handling
Ability to read charts and tide tables
Working knowledge of deck maintenance and repair
Ability to understand weather forecasts and sea conditions
Experience in handling, storing, and maintaining navigation equipment
Skilled in using deck tools and equipment for painting, varnishing, and cleaning
Knowledge of basic first aid and CPR

Good boat deckhand skills are essential in order to be a successful and safe deckhand. Most notably, the ability to understand the safety protocols and procedures of the boat is critical. It is important to recognize potential hazards and be able to respond to them quickly and effectively.

Other important skills include the ability to work in any weather condition, being able to follow directions and instructions, being able to communicate clearly with other members of the crew, and having a good understanding of the operation of the boat and its equipment. Having these skills can help ensure that the boat is operated safely and efficiently, which in turn will reduce the risk of injury or accidents on board. Furthermore, having good deckhand skills can also lead to increased efficiency and productivity on a boat, which can result in increased profits for the owners.

Boat Host/Hostess, Boat Mechanic, and Boat Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working on boats?
How comfortable are you working with marine engines and other equipment?
What safety procedures have you followed in the past to ensure a safe work environment?
Are you comfortable working in all types of weather conditions?
Are you familiar with the rules and regulations of the maritime industry?
How do you handle difficult situations while working on the water?
How do you handle working long hours on the water?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision while working on a boat.
What strategies do you use to prevent accidents and injuries while working on a boat?
Describe your experience handling cargo and passengers on boats.

Common Tools in Industry

Marine Rope. Used to secure a boat to a dock or mooring buoy. (eg: tying the boat's bow line to the dock)
Power Washer. Used to clean the deck of a boat. (eg: cleaning the deck of algae and dirt)
Buckets. Used to transport water and other liquids aboard the boat. (eg: filling buckets with water for cleaning purposes)
Hand Broom. Used to sweep the deck of a boat. (eg: sweeping away dirt and debris)
Paintbrush. Used to paint the hull or other parts of the boat. (eg: applying antifouling paint to the hull)
Deck Scrubber. Used to scrub the deck of a boat. (eg: removing dirt and grime from non-skid surfaces)
Socket Wrenches. Used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts on the boat. (eg: tightening the propeller shaft clamp)
Pliers. Used to grip and hold small parts. (eg: gripping and removing a corroded hose fitting)
Screwdrivers. Used to loosen and tighten screws on the boat. (eg: tightening the screws on a cleat)
Wire Cutters. Used to cut wires aboard the boat. (eg: cutting electrical wiring for an accessory installation)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Maritime Employers Committee (IMEC)
The Professional Yacht Masters Association (PYMA)
International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA)
International Association of Marine Aides Societies (IAMAS)
International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P)
International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI)
International Maritime Pilots Association (IMPA)
International Maritime Training Academy (IMTA)
Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA)
United Seamen's Service (USS)

We also have Boat Engineer, Boat Hauler, and Boat Surveyor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Deckhand. a deckhand is a person who works on a boat, usually responsible for the maintenance and repair of the boat, as well as helping to maneuver the boat.
Boat Captain. a boat captain is the person responsible for the overall operation and navigation of the boat, including its crew and passengers.
Navigation. the process of planning, plotting, and controlling the movement of a vessel from one place to another.
Nautical Terms. a number of technical terms used in sailing, navigation, and seamanship.
Seamanship. the art or practice of managing a vessel at sea.
Knots. a type of knot used in sailing to tie ropes together or to fasten lines to objects.
Rigging. the ropes, cables, and chains used to support a sailboat's mast and sails.
Anchoring. the process of securing a boat by attaching it to an anchor, usually on the seabed or riverbed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Boat Deckhand?

A Boat Deckhand is a professional who works on board a vessel and is responsible for a variety of tasks such as maintenance, cleaning, repair, and operation of the vessel.

What qualifications are required to become a Boat Deckhand?

Boat Deckhands typically require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and basic knowledge of boating safety and navigation. Additional certification may be required depending on the type of vessel.

What are some of the duties of a Boat Deckhand?

Boat Deckhands are typically responsible for cleaning and maintenance of the vessel, operating deck equipment and machinery, assisting in navigation, monitoring safety systems, and providing assistance to the captain.

What are the working hours for a Boat Deckhand?

Boat Deckhands typically work long shifts and irregular hours, depending on the needs of the vessel.

What is the average salary of a Boat Deckhand?

The average salary of a Boat Deckhand is around $30,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on the size and type of vessel, experience, and location.