Small commercial vessel crewmember
Level 3 · AdvancedTransport and logistics 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship trains crewmembers to work safely and effectively aboard small commercial vessels such as ferries, charter boats, and workboats. Apprentices develop practical seamanship, safety, and passenger or cargo handling skills under the direction of the vessel's master. It can lead to progressing towards officer of the watch qualifications or the Ship's Master standard.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Seamanship skills including mooring, anchoring, and line handling
Maritime safety procedures and personal survival techniques
Watchkeeping duties and maintaining a lookout
Fire prevention and firefighting on board a vessel
First aid and casualty care in a maritime setting
Vessel maintenance and basic engine-room awareness
Passenger or cargo handling and briefing responsibilities
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Assist with mooring, berthing, and anchoring operations
Maintain a watch and report hazards to the master
Conduct safety briefings for passengers before departure
Carry out routine cleaning and maintenance of the vessel
Assist with emergency drills including fire and MOB procedures
Handle ropes, fenders, and deck equipment correctly
Support cargo or equipment loading under supervision
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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