How To Be A Successful Deckhand

Being a deckhand isn’t rocket science, though it does require vigorous physical labor and forethought. Whether you’ve already secured a job or are just getting started, I’ve compiled some tips for you to prove you can make it out on deck.

1. Learn Your Knots

There are 2 basic knots you NEED to know. First, the bowline (pronounced BO-LIN) which you will use to secure to a post, piling, cleat or be used as a tag line. Second, the clove hitch & 2 half hitches which you will use to secure a fender to a rail.

Additionally, there are other knots that can assist you in other certain scenarios but these should be the first two you nail down because you will use them the most. Also remember you are no longer using rope, you are using LINE.

2. Be Ready To Do The Heavy Lifting

A deckhands job is quite laborious. Between scrubbing teak, carrying toys, crawling into ungodly small spaces, loading, packing and unpacking equipment on top of being in the hot sun all day will push you to your physical limits. You can do it, just be prepared.

My very first day as a deckhand, I got the honor of flaking the anchor chain. UGH. Even I, coming off training as a Division I athlete, was on the verge of passing out.

3. Radio Curtesy

Again, not rocket science. Don’t talk when other people are talking. Acknowledge all announcements. Keep conversations SHORT. If you need to have a long conversation meet them at their location. Also, MAKE SURE YOU ARE NOT ACCIDENTALLY SITTING ON THE BUTTON. It’s kind of funny at first, but then it’s just plain annoying.

Another great benefit would be to learn how your coworkers like to communicate during docking procedures. Some captains and mates like to hear the bare minimum and keep the radio clear. Others want to constantly be told information. Learn how best to communicate and you’ll dock effortlessly.

4. Learn Your Products

Names like Star Clean, Simple Green, FSR, K2R, Flitz and Awl Care are now apart of your daily vocabulary. Yachts are very particular about what products should be used and where. I don’t blame them it’s a lot of money just to maintain. Take inventory if you can of your boson’s locker. Read the directions if you’re unfamiliar with the product and its uses. If you can learn which ones will protect the stainless, paint, nonskid, cushions and teak you are in good shape.

Though I learned a lot while working with my last crew, now being a crew of 1 I’m learning a lot through Drake’s Detailing Youtube Channel.

5. Practice Calling Distances

This one can be tricky. I recommend laying out a long measuring tape and literally engrain the image of various distances in your head. You can even walk around with it practicing your estimations and then actually take measurements.

Remember if anything, it is always better to under estimate than to over estimate when calling distances.

6. Deck Is Not Your Only Department

You have now signed up to be an extra service hand, the chef’s provision aid, the engineer’s tool hand-er and the captain’s bitch I mean coffee deliverer. Just kidding Cap!

Circling back, this is where forethought can be a critical skill. Anticipating the needs of guests and coworkers, demonstrates powerful character and proves reliability, trust and comprehension.

Your crew is your team. A quick way to make your life on board more enjoyable is to lend a helping hand…and also hope they lend one back.

7. Be Eager; But Not Too Quick

When most people get started, they’re so eager, but too quick. Like me, you’ll want to jump right in and learn everything right away.

Hold the brakes. First get all of the basics under your belt and then get into the nitty gritty.

After a while you’ll able to learn things other than polishing like operating the crane, rules of the road, charting and maybe even driving the big boat.

8. Just Have Fun!

Most importantly, you’re only successful if you’re happy. You’re going to work hard so definitely try and have some fun out there. Play pranks on one another, dance on deck, play games in the crew mess, blast music (when appropriate). As always, get off the boat and go explore as much as possible. Not only will work be a more enjoyable atmosphere, but you’ll create a healthy bond with your coworkers.