
Courses for beginners
There are 9 courses available in Cairns Queensland for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.



Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Marine Radio Operator's VHF and HF Skill Set
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Marine Radio Operator's VHF Skill Set
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Courses for experienced learners
There are no courses available in Cairns Queensland for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Key questions
How can I become a deckhand?
To become a deckhand in Cairns, you may want to consider completing the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal). This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.
Are there training providers in Cairns?
You can train to become a deckhand by completing a qualification with TAFE NSW or TAFE Queensland. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.
What study modes are available?
There are several campuses within the Cairns area that provide deckhand training. The nearest campus is located right in the center of Cairns. You can also study a deckhand course through online, traineeship learning. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.
Related occupations
Explore related occupations in the deckhand sector.
General Purpose Hand
A General Purpose Hand performs various duties on a marine vessel, assisting passengers, managing cargo, cleaning, and conducting safety checks.
Coxswain
A Coxswain steers small vessels, navigates courses, communicates with crew, and prioritises safety during journeys and emergencies.
Second Engineer
A Second Engineer repairs and maintains equipment on a vessel, handling mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems while ensuring smooth operations.
Chief Cook
A Chief Cook prepares meals on a vessel, ensuring ingredient availability, hygiene, and special dietary needs while managing tasks efficiently.
Sea Captain
A Sea Captain navigates and manages a vessel, ensuring safety and leadership while transporting passengers or cargo and communicating with the crew.
Chief Engineer
A Chief Engineer oversees machinery maintenance, designs equipment, supervises teams, and requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
Marine Mechanic
A Marine Mechanic repairs boats and maritime equipment, specialising in engines and systems while demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Marine Engineer
A Marine Engineer maintains and repairs shipping equipment, working on various vessel systems and ensuring effective operation through servicing and problem-solving.
Boat Builder
A Boat Builder constructs and repairs maritime vessels, customising designs to client specifications and specialising in areas like interiors or masts.
Shipwright
A Shipwright builds and repairs ships, requiring strong technical skills, attention to detail, and teamwork to meet customer needs.
Assistant Shipwright
An Assistant Shipwright aids in constructing and maintaining vessels, following instructions and working in teams while ensuring attention to detail.
Engineer Watchkeeper
An Engineer Watchkeeper ensures the effective operation and maintenance of ship machinery, requiring technical skills, attention to detail, and clear communication.
Marine Surveyor
A Marine Surveyor inspects vessels for safety compliance, prepares reports, and conducts scheduled checks, requiring attention to detail, organisation, and strong communication skills.
Master Mariner
A Master Mariner is responsible for navigating and operating a large ship, ensuring the safety of crew and passengers while complying with regulations and communicating effectively with authorities.
Watchkeeper Deck Officer
A Watchkeeper Deck Officer oversees navigation, supervises cargo loading, liaises with the captain, manages equipment, and communicates with crew and passengers.
Ship Mate
A Ship Mate assists with navigation, supervises crew, manages cargo, and ensures safety aboard vessels, requiring strong awareness and problem-solving skills.
Ship Master
A Ship Master oversees vessel operations, navigation, crew coordination, and regulation compliance, requiring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Naval Architect
A Naval Architect designs ships and marine vessels, developing innovative solutions, meeting client needs, and adapting skills for varied projects.
Marine Trimmer
A Marine Trimmer fabricates and fits durable coverings, seating and fittings for boats, ensuring comfort, safety and style.
Marine Fabricator
A Marine Fabricator builds and repairs metal parts for boats, cutting and welding marine-grade materials to ensure safety and strength.
More about deckhand courses in Cairns
If you're looking to commence a rewarding career on the waters, consider enrolling in one of the many Deckhand courses in Cairns. These courses cater to beginners and provide essential training to equip you for various job roles in the maritime industry. Among the most popular options is the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal), offered by renowned providers like TAFE Queensland. Other vital courses include the Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal) and the Follow Vessel Security Procedures (Security Awareness Training), paving the way for a successful maritime career.
The training landscape for aspiring deckhands in Cairns is rich with educational opportunities. With nine dedicated Deckhand courses in Cairns, students can easily find suitable options to gain knowledge and hands-on skills. From the critical Safety Training Certification Skill Set to the indispensable Survive at Sea in the Event of Vessel Abandonment and Personal Survival Techniques, each course plays a crucial role in preparing you for the responsibilities of a deckhand or a related job role like General Purpose Hand or Coxswain.
Cairns, located in the stunning Far North Queensland, provides an excellent backdrop for maritime training, thanks to its proximity to the coast and vibrant marine environment. In addition to deckhand training, students may also explore related career paths such as Second Engineer, Chief Cook, and even Sea Captain. The diversity of Transport and Logistics courses available in Cairns ensures that you can sculpt a fulfilling career by mastering the skills required in this dynamic field. Take your first step into the maritime world today by exploring the various Maritime courses available in Cairns.
Further reading


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14th September 2021