Able Seaman (AB) is the senior deck rating below officer level, responsible for mooring, steering, lookout watch, cargo gear handling and routine maintenance. Getting there is a fixed sequence — sea time first, then certification, then the assessment — rather than something you can shortcut with classroom training alone.
The standard route from OS to AB
Almost every flag state follows the same basic shape: time at sea as an Ordinary Seaman, formal training, then a practical assessment before the AB certificate is issued.
STCW Basic Safety Training
Personal survival techniques, fire prevention, first aid and personal safety — the entry requirement for any sea-going rating.
Sea time as Ordinary Seaman
Typically 12-18 months of documented sea service, learning line handling, watchkeeping and basic deck maintenance under supervision.
Able Seafarer Deck training (STCW II/5)
Formal coursework and practical training covering rigging, mooring, steering, and survival craft operation.
Assessment & certificate issue
A practical watchkeeping and skills assessment, after which the national maritime authority issues the AB endorsement.
What an AB certificate doesn't cover by default
The base AB certificate qualifies you for general deck work, but several vessel types and roles need additional endorsements layered on top.
| Role / vessel type | Extra requirement |
|---|---|
| AB Tankerman / PIC | Tanker Familiarization + Advanced Cargo Operations |
| AB on AHTS / Tug | Towing endorsement, sometimes DP awareness training |
| AB with lifeboat duties | Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) certificate |
| AB on passenger vessels | Crowd management and crisis training (per SOLAS) |
What comes after AB
Documented AB sea time is a common prerequisite for officer cadetship programs, and many serving officers started as ratings. Senior ABs with the right endorsements can also move into Bosun roles, leading the deck crew and reporting directly to the Chief Officer.