Deck
Able boatmanjobs
As an able boatman, you're the experienced hand on deck and the link between the wheelhouse and the deck crew. You belong to the operational level and lead the work on deck during manoeuvres, cargo handling and maintenance.
Tasks
- Lead berthing, casting off, mooring, anchoring and locking on deck
- Assign and instruct boatmen, apprentices and deckhands
- Prepare loading and unloading: check hatches, pipelines and cargo securing
- Organise upkeep, rust protection and maintenance on deck
- Check life-saving appliances and safety equipment
Qualifications
- Certificate of qualification as able boatman, e.g. after at least 180 days of navigation time as boatman or through a recognised training programme
- Solid practical experience in deck work, line handling and manoeuvres
- Valid medical fitness certificate
- Radio certificate (UBI) an advantage, required for the step up to helmsman
- ADN certificate of special knowledge an advantage, especially on tankers
Rotation schedules
Rotation schedules such as 14/14 (two weeks on board, two weeks off) or 2:1 (two weeks on board, one week off) are common. On excursion boats doing day trips there are also daily shifts.
Vessel types and operating areas
Motor cargo vessels and tankers, pushed convoys as well as passenger and cabin cruise vessels on the Rhine, Danube and the other European inland waterways.