Ab Sailor

Ab Sailor

An Able Seaman (AB) is a trained deck crew member responsible for performing a variety of deck operations to keep the vessel safe, ready for sea, and orderly. The AB works under the supervision of the Bosun and Chief Officer, assists with watchkeeping, cargo handling, mooring, and maintenance, and participates in safety and emergency procedures.

Key responsibilities:

• Stand watch as assigned and assist with lookouts, helms, and navigation support as directed.
• Mooring, unmooring, anchoring, line handling, fendering, and general deck rigging.
• Assist with cargo operations: loading, discharging, securing, lashings, stowage, and ensuring proper documentation.
• Maintain the vessel's deck and associated equipment: cleaning, painting, greasing, rust control, and inspection of deck machinery (winches, capstans, cranes, ramps).
• Conduct routine safety tasks: participate in safety drills, inspect lifesaving equipment, fire extinguishers, PPE, and emergency systems; report faults.
• Assist with maintenance of deck surfaces, decks gear, gangs, and walkways; perform minor repairs as trained.
• Help with housekeeping and waste management aboard, ensuring compliance with environmental procedures.
• Assist with cargo securing plans and ensure cargo is properly lashed and secured as per instructions.
• Follow orders from deck officers, communicate clearly, and maintain orderly logs and reports as required.
• Support in emergency situations (fire, flood, man overboard) and participate in rescue and survival procedures.
• Contribute to a safe working environment by adhering to safety rules and wearing proper PPE.

Required qualifications and experience:

• Valid STCW-compliant certifications applicable to Able Seaman/Deck ratings (examples: Basic Safety Training, Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, Elementary First Aid, Personal Protective Equipment).
• Valid medical fitness certificate suitable for seafaring work.
• Legal right to work and hold a valid passport; appropriate visas if required.
• Prior sea service or deck exposure is desirable but not always mandatory (0-3 years commonly preferred depending on flag state and vessel type).
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written). Additional languages are a plus.

Recommended skills and competencies:

• Physical stamina and strength; ability to work in all weather conditions and heavy seas.
• Good dexterity, balance, and manual skills; aptitude for rope handling and deck operations.
• Teamwork, reliability, and the ability to follow orders and procedures precisely.
• Situational awareness, problem-solving, and basic mechanical aptitude.
• Basic math and record-keeping abilities; attention to detail for cargo and safety documentation.
• Safety-minded with a proactive attitude toward maintaining a safe deck and vessel.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is a cruise vacation company comprised of three award-winning global brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that includes TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate a global fleet of 64 ships traveling to more than 800 destinations worldwide.