FAQ
Deckhand FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a deckhand.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a deckhand: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about deckhands
Do deckhands need experience?
No. Entry-level jobs train new mariners.
What credentials are needed?
A Merchant Mariner Credential and TWIC card, plus basic safety training for many jobs.
Can deckhands become captains?
Yes, with sea time, training and Coast Guard exams.
How much does a deckhand make?
The median annual wage for deckhands was $51,520 ($24.77 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $34,560 and the highest 10% earned more than $83,620.
How long does it take to become a deckhand?
Most people need about 1–4 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Entry-level mariners need a Merchant Mariner Credential from the U.S. Coast Guard with an entry-level rating, a TWIC card, a drug test and, for seagoing vessels, STCW basic safety training.
Do you need a degree to be a deckhand?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is deckhand a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.2% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 3,600 openings each year. Upsides include long stretches of time off; a common challenge is that weeks away from home.
What skills does a deckhand need?
Key technical skills include line handling and knots, watchstanding, cargo securing, and deck maintenance. Employers also value teamwork, stamina, and adaptability.
What certifications are available for deckhands?
Common credentials include Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), TWIC card, STCW Basic Safety Training, and Able Seaman (AB) endorsement. Mariners need a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential, and seagoing jobs often require STCW training. Higher ratings and licenses require sea time and exams.
Still deciding?
Try the Deckhand fit quiz, compare with Crane Operator, or explore Deckhand training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-5011 (Sailors and marine oilers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Sailors and marine oilers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.