Deckhand CV Example
A deckhand CV highlights your practical seamanship skills, willingness to work in demanding conditions, and ability to support vessel operations.
Recommended template: BoldPro
Key Skills to Include
Quick Tips
- Include your STCW certification and any additional maritime qualifications.
- Highlight experience on different vessel types such as superyachts, commercial, or fishing vessels.
- Detail your physical fitness and ability to work in challenging sea conditions.
- Showcase your reliability, work ethic, and willingness to learn on the job.
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Upgrade to ProHow to Write Your Deckhand CV
A deckhand CV should showcase your practical seamanship skills, physical fitness, and willingness to work hard in demanding maritime environments. Whether you are applying for a role on a fishing vessel, commercial ship, or superyacht, employers want to see that you can handle core deck duties safely and reliably. Your CV should reflect your hands-on experience, maritime qualifications, and a positive attitude towards teamwork and learning.
CV Structure
Use a straightforward reverse-chronological format. Begin with a strong profile, then list your sea experience including vessel name, type, size, and your role. Follow with qualifications, skills, and any additional training. If you have limited maritime experience, place relevant shore-based work such as outdoor or manual labour roles after your sea service to demonstrate transferable skills. Keep the CV to one page if possible.
CV Format
Choose a clean, simple template that is easy to read. Avoid decorative elements — maritime recruiters and crew agents value clarity above all else. Use bullet points for easy scanning and ensure your STCW certificates and medical status are clearly visible. Save as PDF and ensure your contact details include a reliable phone number and email address.
CV Profile Examples
Experienced Deckhand
Reliable and hardworking deckhand with four years of experience on commercial fishing vessels and coastal cargo ships operating in UK and North Sea waters. Holder of STCW basic safety training, ENG1 medical certificate, and RYA Powerboat Level 2 qualification. Physically fit and accustomed to working extended shifts in demanding weather conditions while maintaining a strong focus on safety and teamwork.
Superyacht Deckhand
Motivated superyacht deckhand with three years of experience on motor yachts ranging from 30 to 55 metres, working both private and charter seasons in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Skilled in tender driving, water sports instruction, and exterior detailing to the highest guest-facing standards. STCW certified with an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore qualification and clean ENG1 medical.
Entry-Level Deckhand
Enthusiastic and physically fit individual seeking a first deckhand position, having recently completed STCW basic safety training and an RYA Day Skipper course. Brings two years of experience in outdoor manual work and a strong foundation in rope handling and basic seamanship from sailing club membership. Eager to start a maritime career and committed to learning all aspects of deck operations.
Write a two-to-three sentence profile stating your maritime experience, vessel types, qualifications, and key strengths. Mention your STCW status, ENG1 validity, and physical fitness. If you are new to the industry, emphasise your enthusiasm and relevant transferable skills.
Key Skills for Your Deckhand CV
Seamanship
Performing core seamanship tasks including knot tying, splicing, rigging, and general deck operations in all conditions.
Mooring & Anchoring
Handling mooring lines, fenders, and anchoring equipment safely during arrivals, departures, and at anchorage.
Rope Work
Tying, coiling, and maintaining ropes and lines using appropriate knots and techniques for secure deck operations.
Deck Maintenance
Carrying out routine maintenance including painting, cleaning, greasing, and minor repairs to keep the vessel in good condition.
Safety Drills
Participating in and leading fire, man overboard, and abandon ship drills to ensure crew preparedness for emergencies.
Watchkeeping
Standing lookout watches and monitoring surroundings during transits to report contacts, weather changes, and hazards.
Physical Fitness
Maintaining the physical strength and stamina required for manual deck work in all weather and sea conditions.
Teamwork
Working effectively with crew members in confined spaces and high-pressure situations to achieve safe, efficient operations.
Tender Operations
Driving tenders and personal watercraft safely for crew transfers, guest excursions, and emergency situations.
Work Experience Examples
For each vessel, include the vessel name or type, size, operating area, and your role. List four to five responsibilities focusing on practical deck tasks. Include achievements that demonstrate your reliability, safety awareness, or ability to learn quickly. Quantify where possible — number of trips completed, seasons worked, or crew trained.
Deckhand
Highland Seafoods Ltd
Worked as deckhand on a 24-metre twin-rig trawler operating from Peterhead on fishing trips of five to seven days across the North Sea.
Responsibilities
- Carried out all deck duties including shooting and hauling fishing gear, sorting catch, and gutting and icing fish for market.
- Performed mooring, anchoring, and rope handling operations during arrivals and departures in harbour.
- Maintained deck equipment, winches, and hydraulic systems through daily cleaning, greasing, and basic fault reporting.
- Participated in all safety drills and maintained awareness of man overboard, fire, and abandon ship procedures.
- Stood bridge lookout watches during transits, reporting contacts and hazards to the skipper.
Achievements
- Completed over 60 fishing trips with zero lost-time injuries, contributing to the vessel's clean safety record.
- Trained two new crew members in deck operations and catch processing procedures during their first trips.
- Recognised by the skipper for consistently fast and accurate catch processing, helping the vessel land top-quality product.
Deckhand / Tender Driver
M/Y Ocean Spirit (55m Motor Yacht)
Served as junior deckhand on a 55-metre private motor yacht during Mediterranean summer seasons, supporting deck operations and guest water sports activities.
Responsibilities
- Maintained the exterior of the yacht to charter-ready standards, including washing, polishing, and teak deck care.
- Operated tenders and jet skis safely during guest excursions, performing daily checks and refuelling.
- Assisted with anchoring, mooring, and line handling at ports and anchorages across the Mediterranean.
- Set up and managed water sports equipment including wakeboard, paddleboard, and snorkelling gear for guests.
Achievements
- Received positive guest feedback cards on 95% of charter trips for attentive and professional service.
- Obtained RYA Powerboat Level 2 and Personal Watercraft certificates during the season, expanding operational capability.
Education & Qualifications
List your STCW basic safety training first, followed by any additional maritime qualifications such as RYA certificates, ENG1 medical, or sea survival courses. Include the issuing body and date of completion. If you have a relevant degree or trade qualification, mention it after your maritime certificates.
STCW Basic Safety Training
Mandatory maritime safety training covering personal survival, fire prevention, first aid, and personal safety and social responsibility.
ENG1 Medical Certificate
Seafarer medical fitness certificate issued by an MCA-approved doctor, required for all commercial maritime roles.
RYA Powerboat Level 2
Practical powerboat handling qualification enabling safe operation of tenders and small craft.
RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
Advanced sailing qualification demonstrating competence in offshore passage planning and yacht handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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