Job Overview
The Boatmaster Apprenticeship provides an opportunity to gain hands-on maritime experience while working towards a Boatmaster Licence (BML). Apprentices will develop expertise in navigation, vessel operation, onboard safety, seamanship, and engineering, supporting the safe and efficient movement of vessels through London’s waterways.
During this two-year programme, apprentices will build knowledge in key areas such as:
- Health and Safety Law – Understanding onboard safety regulations.
- Seamanship & Navigation – Learning about radar usage, passage planning, anchoring, tides, and poor weather conditions.
- Vessel Manoeuvrability & Operations – Gaining experience in propulsion, steering, and handling obstacles (locks, docks, bridges).
- Engineering & Maintenance – Covering deck machinery, vessel construction, pollution legislation, and general engineering procedures.
- International Maritime Legislation – Understanding the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) conventions, emergency regulations, and company bridge procedures.
- Onboard Communication & Business Awareness – Learning about communication systems and employer business objectives to ensure the vessel operates efficiently.
This apprenticeship provides an exciting opportunity to navigate London’s rivers while developing skills that can lead to a long-term career in the maritime sector.
Boatmaster Apprenticeship Overview
The Level 3 Boatmaster Apprenticeship spans two years and covers a wide range of commercial activities on inland tidal and non-tidal waterways in the UK. Boatmasters operate vessels through busy and challenging waterways, often navigating passenger and freight transport services.
A Boatmaster’s role can vary from captaining a single-vessel passenger boat to managing freight operations on major waterways.
What Will the Apprenticeship Involve?
Apprentices will undertake several placement rotations, designed to provide experience across different aspects of vessel operations.
Placement Rotations May Include:
- Placement 1 – Introduction to Woolwich Ferry & Transport for London – Familiarisation with TfL’s maritime operations.
- Placement 2 – Introduction to Woolwich Ferry Shoreside Operations – Understanding the logistics of vessel maintenance and passenger transport.
- Placement 3 – Introduction to Deck Operations – Developing practical skills in vessel handling, safety procedures, and navigation.
Formal training will take place outside of London, with block training sessions lasting one to two weeks at a time.
What TfL Offers
Apprentices will receive a range of benefits, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the apprentice and a nominee who lives in the same household.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- Minimum of 29 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Access to retail, health, leisure, and travel discounts.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for this apprenticeship, applicants must:
- Hold GCSEs (Grade A - C / Grade 4 and above) in English and Maths* or equivalent.
If not, SeaRegs will assist in gaining these qualifications during the apprenticeship.
- Obtain a Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) ENG1 Medical Certificate before the start date.
This cost will be refunded upon starting the apprenticeship with TfL.
Sustainability
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, ensuring that operations protect and regenerate the natural world.
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon completion, apprentices can pursue roles such as:
- Bridge Officer at Woolwich Ferry – Managing daily ferry operations.
- Bridge Officer on Commercial Vessels – Working on passenger and freight vessels on inland waterways.
- Further Maritime Qualifications – With additional training, apprentices may progress to roles at sea, operating larger vessels worldwide.
What Qualifications Will You Gain?
The apprenticeship leads to a Boatmaster Licence (BML).
Along the way, apprentices will also achieve:
- MCA AEC Course Certification
- MCA Crisis Management & Human Behaviour
- SQA Radar & Electronic Chart Systems Certificates
- RYA/MCA GMDSS Short Range Communications Certificate
- RYA Professional Practices & Responsibilities
- RYA Commercial Endorsement
- RYA Powerboat Level 2 Certificate
- RYA Day Skipper & Coastal Skipper Certificates
- STCW Certifications in:
- Elementary First Aid
- Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
- Proficiency in Security Awareness
- Basic Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention
- Personal Survival Techniques
- STCW HELM Operational Certification
- SQA Level 2 Maritime Studies: Rivers, Inland Waterways & Limited Distances to Sea
These qualifications equip apprentices with the technical knowledge and certifications needed for a long-term career in maritime transport.
What Training & Support Will You Get?
Apprentices will receive a combination of practical experience and structured training, including:
- On-the-job learning in vessel operation and maritime regulations.
- Formal training courses conducted at specialist training centres.
- Mentoring and networking opportunities within TfL’s maritime division.
Dedicated Support Includes:
- Placement Manager – Providing day-to-day guidance and operational experience.
- Scheme Sponsor – A senior manager offering technical and professional advice.
- Buddy System – Support from current apprentices and graduates.
- Development Adviser – Offering career coaching and progression support.
What TfL Looks for in Candidates
TfL seeks motivated individuals who demonstrate the following qualities:
- Caring – Committed to supporting colleagues, customers, and operations.
- Open-Minded – Willing to embrace new ideas and work collaboratively.
- Adaptable – Able to adjust to diverse challenges and innovate in problem-solving.
If you are passionate about a maritime career and eager to develop seafaring skills, this apprenticeship provides an excellent foundation.
Assessment Process
Candidates will receive support and information throughout the assessment stages.
For further details, visit the TfL website:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- Applicants have one week to complete assessments.
- Assessment centres for apprenticeship roles will take place from February to April.
- Most roles have only one assessment day (dates cannot be rescheduled).
- Assessments may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the role.
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL is a Disability Confident Employer and offers guaranteed interviews to candidates who meet the minimum criteria.
TfL is committed to ensuring a fair and robust reasonable adjustments process, collaborating with Occupational Health colleagues and other expert organisations.
Applicants requiring reasonable adjustments should notify TfL as soon as possible.
Important Information
- Shift Work – Apprentices may be required to work shifts as part of their training.
- ENG1 Medical – A mandatory medical assessment is required before starting the role.
- Block Training – Apprentices will undertake 1-2 week training sessions outside of London throughout the programme.
Contact Information
For further details or to request reasonable adjustments, please use the following contact information:
Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday – Friday, 09:00 – 17:30)
Email: earlycareerscampaigns@tfl.gov.uk