
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Townsville Queensland for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Townsville 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 Townsville, 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 Townsville?
You can train to become a ship mate by completing a qualification with 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 Townsville area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 286km away from the center of Townsville. 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 Townsville
For those looking to advance their maritime career, Ship Mate courses in Townsville provide an excellent opportunity to gain essential qualifications. With a vibrant coastal community and a strong maritime industry presence, Townsville is the ideal location for aspiring Ship Mates to obtain their training. These courses are specifically designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this exciting field.
One prominent course available in Townsville is the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) MAR40320. This advanced qualification is perfect for experienced learners who possess prior maritime experience or qualifications, allowing them to enhance their competencies and broaden their career prospects within the maritime industry.
Located in the heart of the North Queensland region, Townsville offers a unique blend of maritime activities, making it a suitable backdrop for your training. Enrolling in Ship Mate courses in Townsville means that you will not only benefit from high-quality education but also enjoy hands-on learning experiences in the local waters, enhancing your practical skills and knowledge of local maritime conditions.
The training providers offering these courses are reputable Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) or recognised by industry bodies, ensuring that you receive quality education that meets industry standards. Pursuing a Ship Mate qualification in Townsville is an investment in your future, providing you with the credentials needed to work confidently at sea or in close proximity to coastal activities.
Further reading


How to start a career in Logistics
14th October 2021