Master Mariner Courses
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.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Master Mariner
Get qualified to work as a Master Mariner with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
MAR50320
Become a Ship Master on near coastal vessels under 80 metres with the MAR50320 Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master less than 80 metres Near Coastal). This nationally recognised diploma is accredited with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). Vessel Master competencies include: vessel manoeuvring, command navigation procedures, vessel operations and maintenance management, vessel business administration, cargo management, ship stability, radar and bridge equipment, ECDIS operations, vessel po...
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MAR30921
Duration
4 weeks - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Become a ship Master <24 metres NC on private and commercial vessels with the MAR30921 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to skipper vessels up to 24 metres and work as chief mate on vessels up to 80 metres. Competencies include: performing routine vessel maintenance, planning routes and navigating passenger vessels (up to 80m), using wheelhouse equipment, dealing with onboard emergencies, surviving at s...
Career opportunities
Duration
4 weeks - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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MAR60220
Become a Master Mariner with the MAR60220 Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master Unlimited). This intense qualification prepares you for certification with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) as a Master (Unlimited). The course covers: managing stability and maintenance of very large vessels, managing vessel compliance and security, personal safety, preventing fires on board, survival at sea, managing vessel abandonment, managing cargo and crew, manoeuvring a vessel larger than 500 gr...
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MAR31021
Get the skills you need to skipper inland commercial vessels (up to 24 metres) with the MAR31021 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master Inland Waters). This nationally recognised qualification is accredited with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). The course covers: routine vessel maintenance, navigating inland waters, navigational watch duties, vessel environmental management, seamanship operations, manoeuvring vessels within near coastal waters, shipboard safety and vessel abandonme...
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Common questions
How much does a Master Mariner earn?
In Australia, a full time Master Mariner generally earns $2,300 per week ($119,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Master Mariner?
The number of people working in this field has decreased over the last five years. There are currently 10,100 people employed in this area in Australia, and many of them specialise as a Master Mariner. Master Mariners may find work across regions of Australia where maritime activities are common.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Master Mariner?
If a career as a Master Mariner interests you, consider enrolling in an Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master Unlimited). This course covers a range of topics including managing stability and maintenance of very large vessels, managing vessel compliance and security, survival at sea, managing cargo and crew, advanced navigation and visual signalling. A Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master up to 500GT) may also be suitable.
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More information
A Master Mariner oversees the operation of a large ship or marine vessel. You’ll navigate a course and ensure the ship is running efficiently. Master Mariners are in charge of the safety of crew and passengers and will check that all standards and regulations are complied with. You’ll provide instructions to all on board and may communicate with authorities via marine radio.
Master Mariners should be excellent multitaskers and be able to remain calm in challenging situations. You’ll need to display leadership abilities and communicate clearly with people from a range of backgrounds. Master Mariners require strong observational skills and excellent problem solving abilities. It’s important you have good situational awareness and can focus for long periods of time.
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