Sailor
A sailor operates equipment on board a ship, ensuring safety while navigating the waters.
On this profession page, you will learn:
Who is sailor
A sailor performs many important tasks on a ship. He ensures safety while maneuvering the vessel, assists in loading and unloading cargo. Every day, a sailor checks equipment, maintains cleanliness on the deck, and oversees various systems. On sailboats, sailors manage the sails, adjusting their position according to wind and weather conditions. They prepare and store sailing gear, checking its functionality. During the journey, sailors report any malfunctions or dangers, coordinating actions with other crew members. At night, sailors stand guard, inspecting the surrounding area. Various extreme situations demand quick decisions from sailors, so it is crucial to have first aid skills and know safety rules. Every day, a sailor faces new challenges, exploring new horizons and honing his skills in seamanship.
AI impact on sailor
Low riskAI replacement risk
25%
The ship still needs people on deck to lash cargo, scrape paint, and fix a pump at sea, so you'll spend plenty of hours doing hands-on work. Software will take over much of the plotting and route watching, and it will flag engine readings before you have to climb into the machinery to check it. The tasks that stay are the ones where you have to be there in person: wrestling lines in a squall, running drills, and deciding what to do when the weather turns nasty.
Tasks at risk of automation
- assist in navigation and vessel management
- monitor weather conditions during voyages
- monitor the technical condition of equipment
Tasks that will remain human
- assist in loading and unloading cargo
- maintain cleanliness on board the vessel
- carry out repair and maintenance work
- participate in onboard safety drills
- finding in emergency situations
Key skills of sailor
Work schedule and conditions
The work schedule of a sailor typically consists of 8-12 hours per day. Days off may vary depending on the voyage. The job is on a ship and does not allow for remote work. Sailors may work in extreme weather conditions and on open water. One should be prepared for changes in the schedule.
What a sailor does
- Assist in loading and unloading cargo.
- Maintain cleanliness on board the vessel.
- Assist in navigation and vessel management.
- Monitor the technical condition of equipment.
- Carry out repair and maintenance work.
- Participate in onboard safety drills.
- Monitor weather conditions during voyages.
Benefits of the sailor profession
Adventure
Every journey brings new experiences.
Teamwork
Cooperative working with colleagues.
Learning
Opportunity to continuously improve skills.
Disadvantages of the sailor profession
Risk
Dangers associated with maritime activities.
Unstable Schedule
Lack of regular days off.
Loneliness
Long periods without contact with family.
How to become a sailor
You can become a sailor (deck rating) without a degree. What matters is basic seamanship, safe deck work and physical fitness. To work on a UK-registered vessel you'll need approved STCW basic safety training and an ENG1 seafarer medical certificate.
1. STCW Basic Safety Training
The fastest route is the mandatory STCW short courses (personal survival, fire prevention, first aid and personal safety), which take roughly a week. With these certificates and an ENG1 medical you can apply for entry-level deck rating jobs.
2. Maritime Apprenticeship or College
An able seafarer (deck) apprenticeship or a maritime studies course at an FE college combines theory with sea time and leads to a Merchant Navy Training Board rating qualification. It takes longer but gives a recognised, structured route on to higher tickets.
3. Cadetship or Trainee Scheme
Some shipping companies and training providers run sponsored trainee or cadet schemes where you learn on the job at sea. It's a strong way in without prior experience, but you'll still need STCW safety training and an ENG1 medical first.
The quickest start is the STCW basic safety courses plus an ENG1 medical, then applying for a deck rating role. An apprenticeship or cadetship offers a more structured path. Skill and higher certificates come with sea time and experience.