STCW Basic Training is the entry ticket to most jobs at sea. Once you hold the four basic safety certificates (PST, FPFF, EFA and PSSR) and the right security training, you can apply for a wide range of entry-level roles on cruise ships, cargo vessels, ferries and yachts. Some roles also need extra certificates, a medical, a seaman book or experience, so we list those too.

Here are 10 maritime jobs you can start working towards with STCW certification.

1. Deckhand / Ordinary Seaman

The classic starting role on deck: mooring, maintenance, painting, cargo work and assisting the officers. Ratings forming part of a navigational watch also need STCW II/4. Moving up to Able Seaman (AB) requires the STCW II/5 certificate, which is based on sea service and further training.

2. Engine Rating / Wiper / Oiler

Ideal if you are interested in engineering: machinery checks, engine room cleaning and maintenance and supporting the engineers. Ratings in an engine room watch need STCW III/4, and the next step, Able Seafarer Engine, requires III/5.

3. Cruise Ship Hotel Staff

Every crew member on a cruise ship, including housekeeping, restaurant, bar and guest services staff, needs STCW Basic Training and Security Awareness. Many cruise lines also require Crowd Management for crew who assist passengers in emergencies. See our guide to STCW certificates for cruise ship jobs.

4. Ship Security Crew

Cruise ships and ferries employ security staff for gangway control, screening and patrols. Crew with security duties need Designated Security Duties (DSD), and employers often look for previous security experience. The Ship Security Officer (SSO) course is for officers appointed to that role.

5. Steward / Stewardess

Common on cruise ships, ferries and yachts: cabin service, guest support and hospitality. Alongside STCW, the Messman and Steward training course helps you prepare for the job.

6. Bosun (Experienced Deck Crew)

Not an entry-level job, but a realistic goal. The bosun leads the deck ratings and needs several years of deck experience, usually with the AB (II/5) certificate. It shows how STCW Basic Training can be the first step in a long deck career.

7. Offshore Vessel Crew

Offshore supply vessels and wind farm support vessels employ deck and engine crew with STCW certificates. Note that work on oil and gas platforms usually requires separate offshore industry training (such as BOSIET) in addition to, or instead of, STCW.

8. Yacht Crew

Yachting attracts deckhands, stewards, chefs and engineers. STCW Basic Training is generally required on commercially operated yachts, and many private yachts ask for it too. Read our STCW Basic Training guide for new seafarers to see what the four courses cover.

9. Cook / Galley Staff

Cooks and galley staff on cruise ships, cargo vessels and offshore vessels need STCW Basic Training. A ship’s cook on most merchant ships must also be qualified under MLC 2006 Regulation 3.2; see the Ship’s Cook course (MLC 3.2).

10. Passenger Safety and Crowd Management Roles

On passenger ships, crew assigned to muster stations, passenger control and emergency response need Crowd Management (A-V/2-1). Those with leadership responsibility in emergencies also need Crisis Management and Human Behaviour (A-V/2-2).

What You Need Besides STCW

• A valid seafarer medical certificate.
• A passport and, for many employers, a seaman book.
• Security Awareness or DSD, depending on your duties.
• Role-specific certificates for some jobs (watchkeeping, cook, passenger ship training).

Always check which flag approvals your employer accepts before enrolling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a job at sea with only STCW Basic Training?
Yes, many entry-level roles such as hotel staff, steward, deckhand and galley assistant start with Basic Training plus security training, a medical and a seaman book.

Is STCW enough to become an Able Seaman?
No. Able Seaman requires the STCW II/5 certificate, which is based on sea service and additional training.

Do yacht crew need STCW?
Most commercial yachts require STCW Basic Training for all crew, and many private yachts ask for it as standard.

Start Your Maritime Career

STCW certification opens the door to jobs on cruise ships, cargo vessels, ferries and yachts. Start with the STCW Basic Safety bundle (Liberia), the Panama bundle or browse all STCW courses. New to the industry? Read How to Become a Seafarer in 2026.