Working On A Boat: A Beginner's Guide

Working on a boat can be an exciting and financially rewarding career, offering the opportunity to travel the world and get paid to be on the water. There are a variety of roles available in the boating industry, both on land and on vessels, ranging from entry-level deckhands to captains and engineers.

For those interested in pursuing a career on the water, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, it is important to gain the necessary qualifications and certifications, such as enrolling in a maritime training program or attending a boating academy. This will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to work on a boat safely and effectively. Additionally, gaining work experience through entry-level positions or internships can be a great way to get your foot in the door and build your maritime resume.

Another option is to join the Navy and work on a naval vessel, which can provide invaluable experience and open doors to future boating careers. Networking and building connections in the industry can also be beneficial, as many jobs are found through word-of-mouth and personal recommendations.

Working on a boat requires dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to work outside of the traditional nine-to-five schedule. It can be physically demanding and often involves long hours and manual labour. However, it offers a unique and exciting career path with good pay and the opportunity to travel and explore new places.

How to get an entry-level job on a boat

Working on a boat can be a rewarding career, offering good pay, the opportunity to travel, and a non-traditional work environment. If you're interested in an entry-level job on a boat, here are some steps you can take to make it happen:

Gain Qualifications and Experience

While it is possible to find entry-level positions on boats that don't require prior experience, having relevant qualifications and some experience will significantly improve your chances. Consider taking courses or programs specifically designed to prepare you for working on boats, such as maritime training schools or superyacht courses. These programs can provide you with the necessary certifications and hands-on training to make you a competitive candidate. Additionally, having a strong knowledge base and the right connections in the industry can be crucial in landing a job.

Network and Build Connections

Getting your name out there and making connections within the boating industry is essential. Attend boat races, join sailing or yacht clubs, and look for opportunities to volunteer or work on boats. Consider reaching out to yacht clubs or delivery companies, as they may be willing to take on inexperienced crew members. Building a network of contacts can increase your chances of finding available positions and getting your foot in the door.

Be Flexible and Willing to Start Anywhere

Entry-level positions on boats may not always be glamorous or high-paying, but they provide valuable experience and a foot in the door. Be open to different types of boats and locations, whether it's fishing boats in Alaska, superyachts, or cargo vessels. Keep an eye on job boards, company websites, and job alerts to stay informed about available positions. Be willing to start with an entry-level role and work your way up as you gain experience and qualifications.

Tailor Your Resume

When applying for entry-level boat jobs, tailor your resume or CV to highlight any relevant experience or qualifications you have. Emphasize your willingness to learn, adaptability, and strong work ethic. Highlight any customer service experience, mechanical skills, or maritime certifications you may have. Remember that employers are often looking for reliable and hardworking individuals who are willing to take directions and have a positive attitude.

Understand the Requirements and Responsibilities

Working on a boat comes with unique challenges and requirements. Be prepared to pass background checks, medical and physical exams, and drug tests. You may also need specific certifications or licenses, such as a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) or Basic Safety Training (BST). Additionally, entry-level boat jobs often involve long hours, physical labour, and the need to follow safety protocols and procedures. Make sure you understand the demands of the job and are prepared to meet them.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of landing an entry-level job on a boat and starting your career in the maritime industry. Remember that gaining experience and building a network within the industry are crucial, so don't be discouraged if you don't have prior experience. With dedication and a willingness to learn, you can achieve your goal of working on a boat.

How to get a boating license

The requirements for operating a boat vary depending on the type of boat and the state you are in. Most states require some form of boating safety certificate or license. The good news is that you can often complete the course online, and it's a lot less comprehensive than getting a driver's license.

Here's a step-by-step guide to getting your boating license:

Research Your State's Requirements

First, you need to find out what your state requires in terms of boating education. Each state has different regulations, and some may require a license or certificate, while others have age limits for licensing. You can check the National Association of Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) website, which has basic training requirements for each state. Additionally, each state will have its boating education requirements listed on a government website, usually in areas related to natural resources or transportation.

Choose Your Course

Once you know your state's requirements, you can choose an approved course. Some states offer online courses, while others may only provide in-person training. For example, Connecticut only offers in-person classes, which are at least eight hours long. Third-party providers, such as Boat-Ed.com and BoaterExam.com, offer approved online courses for specific states. The BoatUS Foundation also offers free boating license courses for 35 states.

Complete the Course

The online course is usually divided into sections or chapters, and you can complete it at your own pace. It covers boating basics and terminology, navigation rules, state-specific boating regulations, handling emergencies, and enjoying watersports safely. After each section, you'll need to pass a review exam before moving on.

Take the Exam

After completing the course, you'll be ready to take the boating license exam. Passing the exam will allow you to print your boating license and get out on the water.

Keep Your License Handy

Remember to keep your boating license or completion certificate with you whenever you're operating a boat. Enjoy your time on the water, and stay safe!

How to drive a boat

Learning to drive a boat is an essential first step if you're new to boat ownership or taking the wheel of a friend's watercraft. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to drive a boat:

Pre-Departure Checks

Before starting the engine, ensure you run the "blower" as per the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent a build-up of fumes in the compartment if your boat is gasoline-powered and has an engine compartment. This is also a good time to run through your pre-departure checklist, which includes checking that all your gear is aboard, ensuring your passengers are ready to disembark, and verifying that your boat safety equipment (such as life jackets) is on board.

Starting the Engine

Insert the key into the ignition (some modern boats may have push-buttons) and turn it to start the engine. If your boat has a "kill switch" or engine safety cut-off, clip the lanyard onto a loop on your life jacket or belt. This will automatically turn off the engine if you leave the helm for any reason.

Disembarking

Remove all the lines securing the boat to the dock, pier, or slip. Engage forward or reverse by gently pushing or pulling the throttle handle until you feel it shift into gear.

Steering

When the boat starts moving, spin the wheel just as you would turn the steering wheel of a car. Remember that factors like wind, waves, and current can impact the boat's direction, so always be mindful of your surroundings.

Adjusting Speed

Advance the throttle to reach your desired speed. Trim (adjust the running attitude) of the boat as needed. When you want to slow down, gently pull the throttle back towards the neutral position. Remember that boats don't have brakes, so it's crucial to learn how long it takes your boat to stop. Practice pulling the throttle back towards neutral and letting it gradually slow down.

Docking

Docking is often considered one of the most challenging maneuvers to learn. When driving in tight spaces to maneuver up to a dock, shift into neutral for more precise handling. Turn the wheel while the boat is in neutral, then shift into gear until the boat responds as desired, and shift back into neutral. Repeat this process as necessary.

Additional Tips

• Always maintain a good lookout of your surroundings, including boats that may pose a potential hazard.
• When in doubt, slow down.
• Never operate a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Understand how to properly trim a boat to improve efficiency and performance.
• When approaching a large wave, navigate towards it at a 45-degree angle.
• When on a plane, make slow and steady steering adjustments and avoid fast, sudden changes to the throttle.
• Learn the "rules of the road" or the United States Coast Guard's regulations to prevent collisions and accidents at sea.
• Always take into account weather conditions and external factors like wind, waves, and current, as they can impact the boat's direction and stability.

How to anchor a boat

Anchoring a boat is a basic seamanship skill that every boater should master. It is critical to understand how to set and retrieve an anchor, as it can hold your boat in place and act as an essential safety gear. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to anchor a boat:

• Select an area with plenty of room and an adequate water depth, preferably with a sandy or muddy bottom.
• Head slowly into the wind or current to a position upwind or upcurrent of where you want to anchor.
• Stop the boat and slowly lower the anchor over the bow to the bottom. Ensure you never anchor from the stern, as it can cause the boat to swamp.
• Slowly back the boat away downwind or downcurrent. Let out about seven to ten times as much anchor line as the depth of the water, depending on the wind strength and wave size.
• Secure the anchor line to a bow cleat and ensure it is set by pulling on the line.
• Take visual sightings of onshore objects or buoys to determine your boat's position and frequently recheck these sightings to ensure the anchor is not dragging.
• Check the connecting knots on your anchor line regularly and use splices instead of knots when possible, as knots can weaken the line.

When retrieving the anchor, slowly motor towards it while pulling in the line. If the anchor is stuck, try turning the boat in a large circle to change the direction of the pull. Another method is to pull up the line until the boat is directly over the anchor and then give the line a turn around a cleat.

It is important to remember never to tie off an anchor to the stern of the boat and always take your time when anchoring, allowing the anchor to settle before backing down on it.

How to tie up a boat

To tie up a boat, you'll need the right gear, the right techniques, and an understanding of different scenarios and conditions. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Gear You'll Need

• Cleats: T-shaped metal hardware used to secure the lines to your boat. They are usually made of galvanized metal but can also be made from polymers or wood. Ensure you have enough cleats on both sides of your boat, as you need to be able to tie up from either side.
• Bumpers or Fenders: Protective gear made from foam or rubber that acts as a buffer between your boat and the dock, preventing scratches and damage.
• Dock Lines or Ropes: Sturdy lines of rope, preferably made of nylon, to tie your boat securely.

Tying the Boat to the Dock

When preparing to dock your boat, ensure your boat cleats are secured, your dock lines are organised and tied to your boat cleats, and your bumpers are in place. As you approach the dock, assess its safety and ensure the dock's cleats or pilings can withstand your boat's weight.

There are different ways to set up your dock lines depending on the situation:

• Bow Line: Comes off the port or starboard side of the bow cleat.
• Spring Line: Comes off the port or starboard side of a boat cleat between the bow and stern.
• Stern Line: Comes off the port or starboard side of the stern cleat.
• Breast Line (for quick or brief stops): Comes straight from the midship cleat to the dock's cleat.

When tying the boat, follow this order:

• Toss the spring line to someone on the dock so they can hold the boat in place.
• Tie the bow line to a dock cleat ahead of the bow.
• Tie the spring line at an angle away from the bow towards the stern, securing it to a cleat near the stern.
• Tie the stern line to a dock cleat behind the stern, equidistant from the midship as the bow line.

Always tie the lines at a non-right angle to allow the boat to move with the waves.

Types of Knots to Use

• Simple Cleat Knot: Loop the rope through the cleat, spread the loop over the cleat's horns, and tug to tighten.
• Complex Cleat Knot: Loop the rope around one side of the cleat, cross over the top, loop again, cross over the other side, and tuck the tail between the top two layers.
• Clove Knot (for pilings): Wrap the line around the pole twice, crossing over itself, then feed the tail end through the wrap and tug to tighten.

Considerations and Best Practices

• Weather and Tides: Check wind directions and tie up accordingly. Adjust your boat's position if there are changes. Refer to tide charts and allow enough slack in the lines to accommodate tidal changes.
• Length of Stay: For longer stays, consider adding extra spring or breast lines for security.
• Regularly Inspect Your Gear: Check your ropes for damage and replace them regularly to avoid snapped lines.
• Safety First: Always wear a personal flotation device while tying up and exiting the boat.

Frequently asked questions