How to Become a Boatswain

While it is possible to become a boatswain through the civilian sector, the Merchant Marines or Merchant Navy, the title is generally reserved for enlisted military personnel. Whether you are already enlisted in the military and want to know what the position entails or are considering joining a civilian sector, you should understand what it takes to become a boatswain.

Instructions

1. Learn what the job entails. Becoming a boatswain means becoming a "master of seamanship." In the military, boatswains work perform every duty imaginable on a variety of ships.

2. Decide if this type of position is right for you. You'll need good vision and hearing and a high degree of physical fitness. You must be able to assume a variety of different roles and successfully learn to master diverse tasks, from tying simple knots to steering the ship.

3. Seek training. In the military, training is usually 12 months long in addition to your initial new recruit training. After successfully completing boatswain training, many sailors undergo advanced training for positions such as coxswain, aids to navigation and deck supervisor. In the civilian sector, the Merchant Mariners Document (Z-card) is the standard required documentation to work on a ship in the United States. This card ensures that all crew members have met the International Convention on Standards and Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers.

4. Continue your professional development. As in any profession, a boatswain can advance his career with further education. The military provides ready access to the classes you'll need.