Overseeing a range of activity on inland and non-tidal waterways
Overview
The boatmaster was approved for delivery on 04/11/2019. This Advanced apprenticeship standard awards you with a level 3, qualification when completed. The usual duration of this apprenticeship is 24 months, but this does not include the End-Point Assessment Period.
What the course covers
The primary role of a Boatmaster is to ensure the safe passage of a variety of vessels, both passenger and freight kind through busy inland waterways, having responsibility for all operations and safety of everyone on board.
You may work in collaboration with other boat masters, and will plan your navigation in advance, identifying safe mooring and anchor points to stop the vessel in the appropriate places. You will interact with passengers, crew and the emergency services on a daily basis, and support with the maintenance of the boats on-board systems and mechanics.
Through the implementation of a vessel management plan, you will ensure the crew are all fit for work and are well-rested to carry out their own duties to a high standard, in line with industry regulations and standards. You will calculate a course to steer and manage log entries, as you understand how to obtain and interpret a weather forecast, both before and during a voyage.
Apprentices are required to obtain a Boat Master licence from the Maritime Coastguard Agency if they wish to operate a vessel lawfully.
Careers and jobs associated
- Boatmaster
- Skipper
- Captain
- Waterman
If you would like to find out more about the boatmaster apprenticeship standard, skills, learnt, assessment methods and duties of the role, visit the Institute for Apprenticeships.
