Ferry Crew / Seafarer
Ferry crew (also known as Seafarers) help vessels operate safely while transporting passengers, vehicles and freight. Duties vary between departments, with opportunities in deck operations, engineering, catering and passenger services. Work can include shifts, nights, weekends and time away from home.
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- Help moor the ferry during arrivals and departures
- Assist with loading and unloading vehicles and freight
- Support watchkeeping and lookout duties
- Carry out gangway security duties
- Clean, paint and maintain decks and equipment
- Check firefighting and lifesaving equipment
- Support emergency procedures within your training
- Carry out routine mechanical maintenance in an engineering role
- Prepare meals, serve refreshments or clean cabins in a catering or hospitality role
- Check stock and replenish supplies
Skills & knowledge
You'll need:
- Teamworking and communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Practical skills for operating equipment
- Observation and recording skills
- Problem-solving skills and initiative
- Awareness of safety and security
- The ability to stay calm under pressure
- A positive, flexible approach
- Computer skills
Industry Qualifications
Training depends on your department. Seafaring roles generally require basic STCW safety training and a seafarer medical certificate.
Deck rating training can lead to a Navigational Watch Rating Certificate, Efficient Deck Hand Certificate and Able Seafarer Deck certification. Apprenticeships combine college study with practical experience at sea.
For information about training and career routes, visit Careers at Sea.