
Courses for beginners
There is 1 course available in Cairns Queensland for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal)
- 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 sea captain?
To become a sea captain in Cairns, you may want to consider completing the Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres 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 sea captain by completing a qualification with TAFE Queensland or South Metropolitan TAFE. 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 sea captain training. The nearest campus is located right in the center of Cairns. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.
Related occupations
Explore related occupations in the sea captain 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.
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.
Deckhand
A Deckhand performs cleaning, maintenance, cargo handling, mooring, and safety patrols on a ship, requiring physical fitness, teamwork, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
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 sea captain courses in Cairns
If you are aspiring to navigate the beautiful waters of Cairns as a Sea Captain, you are in the right place! Our selection of Sea Captain courses in Cairns provides you with the foundational skills and qualifications necessary to embark on an exciting maritime career. With only one course available in the Cairns area, you can focus your energy on achieving your goals efficiently. The Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal) MAR30921 is tailored for beginners, making it the perfect starting point for those with no prior experience.
TAFE Queensland is the primary training provider for the Sea Captain course in Cairns, ensuring that you receive top-quality education from an established institution. With experienced instructors and a comprehensive curriculum, TAFE Queensland equips you with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that will prepare you for real-world challenges faced at sea. For more details about TAFE Queensland's offerings, you can visit their profile here.
Enrolling in Sea Captain courses in Cairns not only opens doors to exciting job opportunities but also connects you to various related fields of study. You'll find that your maritime training complements other disciplines such as Transport and Logistics courses and specific Maritime courses. By exploring these linked areas, you can broaden your expertise and position yourself as a versatile candidate in the maritime industry.
Cairns, known for its stunning Great Barrier Reef and vibrant marine environments, offers a unique backdrop for Sea Captain practitioners. Whether you envision commanding a charter boat, conducting eco-tours, or working on commercial vessels, the skills gained from the Certificate III in Maritime Operations will equip you for success in this dynamic region. The course prepares you to safely manage vessels while gaining a thorough understanding of maritime regulations and safety protocols.
With the rise in tourism and maritime activity in Cairns, this is an opportune time to consider your future as a Sea Captain. By undertaking the Sea Captain courses in Cairns, you are not just investing in a qualification; you are investing in a thrilling career that offers adventure and the chance to explore the open seas. Don’t wait any longer—take the first step towards your dream career today!
Further reading


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30th November 2022