Bosun Salary and Requirements
A bosun’s salary depends on experience, type of vessel, and credentials. Starting salaries range from $35,000 to $50,000 per year. Experienced bosuns on superyachts can earn over $100,000 annually.
To become a bosun, one must have at least five years of experience and pass examinations on technical knowledge and seamanship skills. Bosuns are responsible for overseeing deck operations and maintenance. Their duties include inspecting equipment, supervising loading/unloading of cargo, coordinating repairs, and enforcing safety regulations.
The highest earning bosuns are those with specialized certifications, engineering qualifications, or a USCG master license. Working for major shipping companies or in high cost-of-living ports also increases salary potential. The type of ship impacts pay as well – tankers tend to offer higher salaries than bulk carriers or yachts.
Bosun Responsibilities and Role
The bosun is the most senior unlicensed crew member. On yachts, they report to the second officer. The bosun supervises the deck crew and assigns each sailor specific daily tasks. Their responsibilities range from routine maintenance to emergency response coordination. The leadership and maritime expertise bosuns possess allow them to command high salaries.
Becoming a Bosun
How long does it take to become bosun?
A bosun’s salary depends on the size of the vessel they are working on, their experience, and the company they are working for. Most bosuns make between $50,000 and $100,000 a year. Tankers tend to give higher offers than bulk carriers and yachts. The salary of a Bosun differs from company to company and also varies with the type of vessel he sails in.