Why Should You Complete a Coxswains Course?

A coxswain steers and navigates smaller commercial vehicles within fifteen nautical miles of the coast, such as ferries, jet boats, catamarans, tourist crafts, water taxis and fishing boats.

Apart from supervising the vehicle, they consult authorities before a voyage. They manage the crew, maintain logbooks, communicate and update safety information to the passengers, communicate navigational information via marine radio/telephone and respond to emergencies. Also, they must troubleshoot, repair and maintain vessels, such as propulsion systems, pump systems, auxiliary systems and diesel engines. In addition, they monitor the seaworthiness and condition of the ships by checking the inboard and outboard diesel engines as part of their coxswains course.

To become a coxswain, you must spend time at sea, commit to passengers’ safety, manage and lead the crew, have good physical health and clear the medical examination. In addition, you must direct the deck crew’s maritime activities such as unberthing and berthing, painting and cleaning of the superstructures, replacement and repairing defective deck equipment and gear. Finally, you must comply with sea safety regulations and protect the marine environment.

A coxswain begins their career as a deckhand in the industry as they gain the experience for the Coxswain Certificate of Competency Test. Once cleared, they work with tourism operators, fishing charters and government organisations. With further experience and training, they work in engineering and deck departments near blue water or coastal vessels.

You must complete a coxswains course and traineeship of ten years before you become a coxswain, which is called the Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) traineeship – also known as a coxswain ticket. You must be at least sixteen years of age to enter the course and train for six months.

Once you have the required navigation experience, complete a Certificate of Competency (Coxswain) from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). In addition, you must have a current Provide First Aid Certificate, a Marine Radio Operator’s VHF Certificate of Proficiency. Once employed, you can further develop additional skills under the Maritime Training Package to expand career opportunities in the marine industry.

A coxswain operates vessels up to 12 metres in length in sheltered waters and needs additional qualifications to use larger vessels further from the coast. In some cases, this is called a coxswain ticket. If you’re eager to join a coxswains course, contact us at Sea School International.