Overview

What’s involved

The skipper or (ships master) is first in command on the trawler, boat or marine vessel and is responsible for the safety of the vessel, all crew onboard and the planning and navigation required to reach a destination at sea for commercial fishing or trawling. A skipper is highly skilled and holds various licences, tickets and accredited qualifications relevant to the size of vessel they oversee and where they travel to. 

How do they spend their day?

A skipper (or ship's master) is at the helm of and in charge of a fishing vessel or trawler and completes tasks such as:

  • Maintaining safety protocols
  • Monitoring and observing weather
  • Monitoring radar or sonic equipment
  • Communicating with the crew
  • Marina or port navigation
  • Anchoring and docking
  • General maintenance
  • Communication via radio or satellite

Occupation Insights

Average salary
$90,000 - $100,000 per year
or seasonal arrangement
Skills you will use
Emergency response
Equipment maintenance
Operate vessels and equipment
Navigation
Radio communication
Vessel operations
Fishing equipment
Fishing operations

MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal) plus the Australian Maritime Safety Authority required hours of sea service, a medical and eyesight certificate, completion of Australian Maritime Safety Authority task book, completion of an approved Australian Maritime Safety Authority first aid course and radio proficiency certificate.

A relevant maritime certification, such as a Master <24m Near Coastal certificate or Master up to <45m, is typically required. Experience in vessel operations and navigation is necessary.

Coastlines, Marine hazards and safety, commercial fishing licence requirements, navigational skill, weather and tides, biosecurity, maintenance, radio and satellite communication, marine vessel and equipment operation and emergency response.

Leadership, responsible, accountable, physically fit