The job of a boatswain is a job that requires many different skills and attributes. As part of the job, you will be responsible for many different aspects of the ship, including maintenance, repair, cables, anchors, rigging and lots of other equipment used on the vessel. This job is not for those that want to sit back and relax; it takes hard work and dedication to be a successful boatswain. In this article, we take a look at some of the skills needed to be a good boatswain.

Leadership skills

Part of the boatswain’s job is to manage, train and discipline the deck crew; this requires good leadership skills. To gain the respect of the deck crew, the boatswain needs to show that they’re a competent leader that’s fair and fit for the job. A good leader will be able to help the deck crew gain new skills relating to their job role, they will also be on hand to listen and advise on any issues they may have. However, being understanding is only part of a good leader’s personality, they also need to be firm and have the ability to follow through with punishment when required. 

Physical fitness

The job of a boatswain is highly physical, as it often involves heavy lifting, climbing and being on your feet for long periods. The physical demands of the job don’t stop when the weather turns bad; you need to be willing to do your job in all weather conditions. Physical fitness is a must for any successful boatswain; someone with back issues or knee issues will struggle in this role. The job can be very demanding and push your body to the limit. Therefore, it’s essential to be active physically and have good muscle strength before applying to become a boatswain.

Good in an emergency situation

A boatswain may experience emergency situations during the course of their career; it’s essential that they are able to take control and act quickly when an emergency occurs. There is often no room for delays to prevent a catastrophe, so the boatswain needs to remain calm and use their knowledge to fix the problem. If you find you don’t act well under pressure or in emergency situations, you might be better suited to another position with less pressure.

Communication

Effective communication is vital in any role where you are in charge of people. A boatswain needs to be able to effectively communicate with their voice and with a boatswain’s call. This is the whistle used on the ship to communicate orders to the crew members. It also signals the start and end of the working day; it is an important tool that a boatswain must learn to use effectively to give commands. Listening and reasoning are also essential for a boatswain to communicate with crew members. When the crew are happy and satisfied, they’re more likely to work harder, making the vessel more efficient and preventing any issues. 

Technical knowledge 

To be a boatswain, you need deep knowledge of ships and maritime operations. There is a lot to learn and understand about how vessels work before you can be a successful boatswain. You need to understand how the mechanics of the boat work to be able to operate and maintain the equipment safely. Boatswains will often start their career on the deck, where they can begin to learn the huge amount of technical knowledge needed to do this job effectively. Many also complete courses and qualifications to further expand their knowledge and ensure they know everything there is to know about the running of the vessel. 

In conclusion, being a boatswain requires diverse skills and attributes, from strong leadership and physical fitness to effective communication and technical knowledge. The role of a boatswain is not for those who want an easy job, as it involves hard work and dedication to maintain and repair various aspects of the ship. However, for those with the necessary skills and a passion for maritime operations, the role of a boatswain can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. It is important to understand the demands of the job before pursuing it, but for those who are up for the challenge, being a boatswain can offer a lifetime of learning and adventure.