Skipper Onboarding Checklist

Skipper Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Skipper starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Maritime onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Skipper, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Skipper onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Skipper Onboarding Checklist

1. Vessel familiarization: The skipper needs to become familiar with the specific vessel they will be operating. This includes understanding the layout, equipment, and safety features of the vessel. The vessel’s captain or a senior crew member typically performs this task, providing a comprehensive tour and explanation of the vessel’s features.

2. Safety training: Safety is of utmost importance in the maritime industry. The skipper must undergo safety training to ensure they are aware of emergency procedures, safety protocols, and the proper use of safety equipment. This training is typically conducted by the company’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer.

3. Navigation and charting: As a skipper, it is crucial to have a strong understanding of navigation and charting. This task involves learning how to read nautical charts, plot courses, and use navigational aids such as GPS systems and radar. The company may provide specialized training or assign a senior skipper to mentor the new skipper in this area.

4. Crew management: The skipper is responsible for managing the crew on board. This task involves understanding crew roles and responsibilities, assigning duties, and fostering a positive working environment. The skipper may receive guidance from the company’s human resources department or a senior skipper with experience in crew management.

5. Communication protocols: Effective communication is essential for smooth operations at sea. The skipper needs to learn the company’s communication protocols, including radio procedures, emergency communication channels, and reporting requirements. This task may be performed by the company’s communication officer or a senior skipper.

6. Weather monitoring: Weather conditions can greatly impact maritime operations. The skipper should receive training on how to monitor weather patterns, interpret weather forecasts, and make informed decisions based on weather conditions. This training may be conducted by a meteorologist or an experienced skipper with expertise in weather monitoring.

7. Maintenance and repairs: The skipper should have a basic understanding of vessel maintenance and repairs. This includes knowing how to perform routine checks, identify potential issues, and carry out minor repairs. The company’s engineering department or a designated engineer may provide training in this area.

8. Emergency response: In the event of an emergency, the skipper must be prepared to respond swiftly and effectively. This task involves learning emergency response procedures, conducting drills, and understanding the roles and responsibilities of the crew during emergencies. The company’s safety officer or a senior skipper may oversee this training.

9. Regulatory compliance: The maritime industry is subject to various regulations and standards. The skipper needs to familiarize themselves with these regulations, including safety regulations, environmental regulations, and licensing requirements. The company’s compliance officer or a designated regulatory expert can provide guidance in this area.

10. Company policies and procedures: Each company may have its own set of policies and procedures that the skipper must adhere to. This task involves reviewing and understanding the company’s policies on topics such as safety, ethics, and operational protocols. The company’s human resources department or a designated representative can provide the necessary information and training.

11. Familiarization with local waters: If the skipper will be operating in a new area, they need to become familiar with the local waters, including navigational challenges, potential hazards, and local regulations. This task may involve studying charts, consulting local pilots or experienced skippers, and conducting practice runs under supervision.

12. Customer service and client relations: Depending on the nature of the maritime business, the skipper may have direct interaction with clients or passengers. In such cases, the skipper should receive training on customer service, handling client inquiries or complaints, and maintaining a professional demeanor. The company’s customer service department or a senior skipper with experience in client relations can provide guidance in this area

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Skipper checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Skipper up to speed and working well in your Maritime team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.