Optional · 1 of 3

Endorsements that raise your rate

• Able Seaman

  The main upgrade. Needs sea time plus an exam, and moves you up the pay scale on every boat.

• Lifeboatman

  Qualifies you to take charge of a survival craft. Required on many larger vessels.

• Tankerman

  For boats carrying fuel and chemicals. One of the biggest single jumps in pay on the water.

• Radar observer

  A step toward the wheelhouse and a mate's license later on.