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

Oct 15, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Boating safety has become a major concern in recent years, and boat riggers play an important role in ensuring that boats are safely rigged. A boat rigger is responsible for attaching and adjusting the sails, masts, rigging and other components of a boat. In order for a boat to be properly rigged, the rigger must properly install and adjust the components, such as the mast, boom, sails, rigging and other accessories.

If these components are not properly installed, it can lead to a dangerous situation on the water and potential injury or death. Properly rigging a boat can also ensure that the boat is performing optimally for the sailing conditions. By properly adjusting the components and rigging of a boat, it can allow for better performance in different conditions and less strain on the boat and its crew.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers prefer candidates with at least a high school diploma, although some may accept experience in lieu of formal education.
Pursue a post-secondary degree or certification in marine technology, if desired. Although this is not required to become a rigger, it can help you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to get the best jobs.
Get certified in rigging. Professional rigging certifications can be obtained through organizations such as National Boat Rigging Institute or the American Boat and Yacht Council. These courses teach the proper rigging techniques, safety protocols, and industry standards for boat rigging.
Gain experience in the field. Most employers prefer to hire riggers with experience and knowledge of the industry, so it is important to gain experience in the field. Consider internships or entry-level positions with boat rigging companies, or pursue volunteer opportunities with local sailing clubs or marinas.
Stay up-to-date on industry trends, techniques, and safety protocols. Boat rigging is an ever-evolving field, so it is important for riggers to stay up-to-date on best practices and safety protocols. Consider attending workshops and seminars offered by professional organizations, or reading trade magazines and other publications.

Staying ahead and capable as a boat rigger requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical experience, and an ongoing dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the industry. A boat rigger must have a deep knowledge of rigging systems and understand their proper installation, use, and maintenance. Having a thorough understanding of the different types of rigging parts and their functions is essential for successful rigging.

Practical experience is also important, as it provides the rigger with the confidence to handle the tasks at hand and the know-how to identify potential issues. Finally, staying ahead of the game means staying informed on the latest advances in rigging and hardware technology. Taking continuing education courses, attending industry conferences and seminars, and reading trade publications are all excellent ways to keep up with the latest trends and techniques in boat rigging.

You may want to check Boat Repair Technician, Boat Cleaner, and Boat Surveyor for alternative.

Job Description

Outfitting Technicians: Outfitting technicians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of boats and their outfitting components. This includes installing and repairing engines, rigging, wiring, and equipment such as anchors, sail furling systems, and winches.
Boat Rigging Specialists: Boat rigging specialists are responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing boat rigging components such as masts, booms, stays, and running rigging. They also inspect, adjust, and tighten standing rigging and adjust the tension of running rigging.
Boat Builders/Repairers: Boat builders/repairers are responsible for building boats from scratch or repairing damaged boats. This involves cutting wood, assembling frames, and fitting decking, planking and bulkheads. They also install hardware such as cleats, clevis pins, and turnbuckles.
Sailmakers: Sailmakers create sails for boats. This involves designing the sail shape and size, measuring the boat for the sail, cutting the fabric to size, and then sewing it together using specialized equipment. Once the sail is complete, it needs to be fitted to the boat.
Marine Electricians: Marine electricians are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical systems on boats. This includes wiring boats for 12-volt DC power and 110/220-volt AC power, installing navigation electronics and other electrical equipment, testing components for proper operation and identifying any possible problems.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Understanding of sailboat rigging systems and components
Ability to read, understand, and interpret blueprints and diagrams
Knowledge of sailboat rigging terminology
Ability to inspect and diagnose problems in rigging systems
Familiarity with tools and materials used in sailboat rigging
Ability to identify and select appropriate rigging components for a sailboat
Proficiency in rigging and replacing standing rigging, running rigging, and halyards
Expertise in setting up and configuring spinnakers and furling systems
Ability to tune sailboat rigging to maximize performance on the water
Knowledge of safety procedures related to boat rigging

Boat rigging is an essential skill for any boat owner or operator. Rigging is the process of setting up and maintaining the running rigging, standing rigging, and sail control systems on a boat. This includes the lines, cables, blocks, and other hardware that are used to support the masts, sails, and other components of the boat.

Without proper rigging, a boat will not be able to sail efficiently and may be subject to damage due to lack of support. Furthermore, poor rigging can also lead to dangerous situations such as snapped lines, broken blocks, or even capsizing. Therefore, it is essential for any boat owner or operator to have a thorough understanding of rigging and how to properly maintain it.

With effective rigging, the boat will be able to perform as intended while also being safe and secure.

Boat Deckhand, Boat Engineer, and Boat Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in boat rigging?
How familiar are you with different types of boat rigging?
What is your knowledge of marine hardware and components?
How do you troubleshoot and diagnose problems in boat rigging?
What is your experience with cutting, splicing, and knotting ropes and lines?
How would you handle a difficult customer while performing rigging work?
How do you plan out rigging work on a new boat?
What safety measures do you take while working with rigging equipment?
Can you explain the differences between wire rope, cable, and rope rigging systems?
How do you ensure proper tensioning and alignment when rigging a boat?

Common Tools in Industry

Rigging Knife. Used to cut and shape the rigging line (eg: Splicing a rope).
Deck Fittings. Used for securing lines, such as cleats and blocks (eg: Attaching a line to a cleat).
Crimping Tool. Used to secure metal fittings to the ends of lines (eg: Attaching a hook to a line).
Rigging Gauge. Used to measure the size and tension of rigging lines (eg: Checking line tension).
Swaging Tool. Used to make loop and eye splices in the rigging line (eg: Securing a loop in the end of a line).
Wire Cutters. Used to cut metal wire used in rigging (eg: Snipping off excess wire).
Wire Strippers. Used to strip insulation from electrical wires (eg: Connecting electrical components).
Hammer. Used to drive fasteners into wood or metal (eg: Installing a cleat).
Drill. Used to make holes in wood or metal (eg: Installing a winch).
Torque Wrench. Used to ensure proper tension when tightening fasteners (eg: Tightening a bolt).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)
National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA)
International Marine Certification Institute (IMCI)
Marine Fabricators Association (MFA)
International Sailing Federation (ISAF)
International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA)
National Marine Trades Association (NMTA)
International Yacht Riggers Association (IYRA)
Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF)
The National Coast Guard Auxiliary Association (NCGAA)

We also have Boat Washer, Boat Captain, and Boat Upholsterer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Rigging. The system of ropes, wires, and chains used to support and maneuver a sailboats masts, sails, and other components.
Mainsail. The primary sail on a sailboat, typically located at the back of the boat.
Genoa. A large jib sail located forward of the mainsail on a sailboat.
Jib. A triangular shaped sail located in the front of the boat.
Boom. The horizontal spar that extends the bottom edge of the mainsail away from the mast.
Halyard. A rope used to raise or lower a sail or spar.
Cleat. A metal or wooden fitting used to secure a rope or line to a boat.
Furling. The process of wrapping a sail around its furling line or furling drum in order to reduce the sails area and power.
Sheave. A wheel with a groove along its circumference used to keep a rope in place and guide it around a block or other fitting.
Shroud. A wire rope used to support the mast against lateral forces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Boat Rigger?

A Boat Rigger is a professional who specializes in the installation and maintenance of boat rigging systems, such as masts, sails, ropes, cables, and other hardware.

What tasks does a Boat Rigger perform?

A Boat Rigger typically performs tasks such as installing masts and sails, connecting deck hardware, setting up winches, adjusting sail tension, splicing rope and cable, creating custom rigging solutions, and performing general maintenance.

What qualifications do I need to become a Boat Rigger?

To become a Boat Rigger, you typically need a combination of experience in sailing and boat maintenance, knowledge of rigging systems and materials, and technical skills such as knot tying and splicing.

How much does a Boat Rigger make?

Boat Riggers typically earn an hourly wage of $15-$20 per hour, depending on experience and location. Some Boat Riggers may also earn additional income through commission or bonuses.

What safety gear do I need to wear as a Boat Rigger?

As a Boat Rigger, you should always wear safety gear such as eye protection, gloves, non-slip shoes, and a hard hat. Additionally, you should be familiar with and adhere to any safety regulations set by your employer.