
Courses for beginners
There are 2 courses available in Cairns for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Use of Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) to Maintain the Safety of Navigation
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Transmit and Receive Information by the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Courses for experienced learners
There are no courses available in Cairns for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Key questions
How can I become a ship master?
To become a ship master in Cairns, you may want to consider completing the Use of Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) to Maintain the Safety of Navigation. 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 ship master by completing a qualification with 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 ship master 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 ship master 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.
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.
Naval Architect
A Naval Architect designs ships and marine vessels, developing innovative solutions, meeting client needs, and adapting skills for varied projects.
More about ship master courses in Cairns
If you are seeking to pursue a rewarding career in maritime navigation, exploring Ship Master courses in Cairns is an excellent start. Cairns, located in Far North Queensland, is renowned for its rich maritime heritage, making it an ideal place for aspiring shipmasters to receive quality training. At Courses.com.au, we offer a concise selection of shipmaster courses tailored for beginners, ensuring that you acquire essential skills without prior experience. You can find a comprehensive list of the available courses at Ship Master courses in Cairns.
Among the notable beginner courses available in Cairns is the Use of Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) to Maintain the Safety of Navigation MARH023. This course covers vital competencies required for using electronic navigational charts and systems, which are essential for modern maritime operations. It is particularly beneficial for those starting their journey in the maritime industry.
Another essential course to consider is the Transmit and Receive Information by the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) MARO011. This course equips learners with the necessary skills to operate communication systems crucial for navigation safety. With these foundational courses, you can gain a competitive edge in the shipping and maritime sectors.
In Cairns, the primary training provider for these courses is TAFE Queensland, which is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) known for delivering quality maritime training. Their experienced instructors and curriculums adhere to industry standards, ensuring that you receive comprehensive education and practical skills needed for your future role as a shipmaster.
Exploring the broader context of your education, it is worth noting that Ship Master courses in Cairns are part of larger fields of study, including Transport and Logistics courses and Maritime training. Investing in these courses not only sets a solid groundwork for your shipmaster career but also connects you to diverse opportunities within the maritime industry. Start your journey today by exploring the shipmaster courses available in Cairns!
Further reading


How to start a career in Logistics
14th October 2021