How to Become a Bosun
To become a Bosun, start as a Trainee Ordinary Seaman. With experience, you are promoted to Ordinary Seaman, then to Able Seaman. After 6-7 years and good appraisals, you can reach Bosun. Some companies require additional safety training.
The Bosun leads the deck crew. On smaller yachts, they are more hands-on. On larger yachts, they manage. When guests are aboard, the Bosun directs the deck team to maintain high standards.
You will need to start with the basics of becoming a deckhand, and then work your way up the ranks to becoming a Bosun on a Yacht. Ultimately one day you will hopefully become a Captain of your own vessel.
Bosun Career Path and Responsibilities
The Bosun career path starts as a deckhand. You learn to handle ropes, cables, cargo, and machinery. As Chief Bosun or Master Bosun, you can manage large teams and develop leadership skills.
The bosun is not a watchkeeper but works as a daysman on regular working hours of 0800H-1700H. The bosun is expected to hold a Certificate of Proficiency in accordance with STCW regulations III/5 for rating forming part of a navigational watch.
Bosun Salary Information
The Bosun earns an average salary of $69,177 per year, ranging from $56,995 to $99,293.