You could take a college course in boat building or marine crafts. Some colleges offer introductory courses so you can see if it’s the right choice for you.
Boat builder
Alternative titles for this job include Marine craftsperson, shipwright
Boat builders build, repair and refit marine craft from small sailing boats to large sea-going vessels.
Average salary (a year)
£16,000 Starter
to£35,000 Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
45 to 47 a week
You could work
evenings / weekends / bank holidays as customers demand
How to become a Boat builder
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
College
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job by doing a boat builder advanced apprenticeship.
This will usually take 4 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.
Once you have completed the apprenticeship, you'll be recognised by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) at ‘Engineering Technician’ level.
Entry requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), usually including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More information
More information
Career tips
Qualifications or experience in joinery, welding or plumbing can help.
Professional and industry bodies
You may find it useful to join organisations like the The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology and British Marine, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a boatbuilder from The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology and British Marine.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of physics
- analytical thinking skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to read English
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- Being able to use a computer terminal or hand-held device may be beneficial for this job.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Depending on the job, you’ll:
- plan your work in line with design instructions
- use tools to cut and shape boat parts and sections
- join sections together using welding equipment or resins
- service and repair engines
- refit vessels, for example with new electrics or plumbing
- install navigation and communications equipment
- apply finishes using varnishes and paints
- carry out safety and quality checks
Working environment
You could work in a workshop or at a shipyard.
Your working environment may be physically demanding, at height and outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience and qualifications, you could become a marine engineer.
You could also move into boat design, work as an assistant to a naval architect or specialise in maritime equipment sales and support.
You could use your skills to transfer to other branches of engineering or into construction.
Training opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
Apprentice Boatbuilder
- Wage : £220.00 Weekly
- Location: Arundel BN18 0UZ
Boatbuilding Apprenticeship
- Wage : £168.00 Weekly
- Location: Norwich NR12 8RX
Courses In England
SQA HNC Marine Engineering
- Provider: Tyne Coast College T/A South Tyneside College And Tyne Metropolitan College
- Start date: 28 January 2019
- Location: South Shields
Marine Engineering - Foundation Degree
- Provider: BLACKPOOL AND THE FYLDE COLLEGE
- Start date: 10 September 2019
- Location: Fleetwood