
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Cairns Queensland for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Cairns Queensland for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.


Key questions
How can I become a ship mate?
To become a ship mate in Cairns, you may want to consider completing the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 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 ship mate by completing a qualification with TAFE Queensland or TAFE NSW. 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 mate 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 mate 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 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 ship mate courses in Cairns
If you are seeking to advance your maritime career, the Ship Mate courses in Cairns offer a fantastic opportunity for aspiring maritime professionals. Located in the stunning coastal city of Cairns, these courses equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the maritime industry. With a range of Vocational Education and Training (VET) options available, you can significantly enhance your qualifications. One popular course is the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) MAR40320, provided by renowned institutions like TAFE Queensland.
Whether you are an experienced learner or just starting on your maritime journey, Cairns has the resources you need to achieve your goals. The Ship Mate courses in Cairns are designed to cater to a diverse audience, paving the way towards various exciting job roles in the industry. With a strong focus on practical, hands-on training, you'll be well-prepared for positions such as General Purpose Hand, Coxswain, and Second Engineer.
Cairns is not only a beautiful destination but also a bustling hub for maritime career opportunities. Upon completing your Ship Mate courses in Cairns, you will find exciting pathways leading to job roles such as Chief Cook, Sea Captain, and Chief Engineer. The qualifications gained from courses like the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations position you to take on these dynamic roles, further enhancing your career prospects.
In addition to traditional maritime roles, the skills you develop through the Ship Mate courses in Cairns can also lead to exciting positions such as Marine Mechanic, Marine Engineer, and Boat Builder. With an established training provider like TAFE Queensland, you can rest assured that you are receiving top-notch education that prepares you for success in the ever-evolving maritime industry. Begin your journey today and explore the many opportunities available in Cairns through Ship Mate courses in Cairns.
Further reading


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14th October 2021