Have you ever been on a boat and wondered what the name of the person who steers the boat is? That is why knowing the particular titles can help to clear things up, as many terms are used. However, a boat sailor is not limited to operating the boat but is involved in many other activities. Crews are the lifeline of any boating process, which makes transportation from one point to another effective and safe.
What do you call a person who rides a boat?
The term used for the person who rides a boat can also differ depending on the boat’s size, type, and region. The most accurate term is ‘helmsman’ which is a person who manages a ship or boat with the help of helm, which is a wheel connected to the rudder.
However, in everyday conversation, you’ll hear many other terms used interchangeably, such as:
Captain
This term is mostly applied to the most senior officer on board a large vessel and is in charge of the ship’s command and direction.
Skipper
This is a more general term for the captain of a small vessel such as a sailing yacht or a motor yacht.
Pilot
A pilot is a professional sailor with certain experience in a certain stretch of water and is usually employed to steer a ship through a certain stretch of water considered dangerous or unknown.
A Sailor’s Duties
The duties of a sailor are not limited to the vessel’s navigation. Their day-to-day tasks can involve a variety of activities, such as:
- Deckwork: This includes activities such as hoisting and dousing sails, making and easing sheets, and keeping the deck tidy.
- Navigation: Sailors also help navigation by charting, interpreting the charts, and handling the navigation equipment.
- Maintenance: Sailors also have the very important task of washing, checking, and making minor adjustments to the engine, sails, and other parts of the boat.
- Watchkeeping: Sailors go on watch, meaning they are responsible for looking for other ships, obstacles, and weather conditions.
- Communication: Sailors may be expected to handle communication devices and information passing.
Qualifications for Setting Sail
There is no specific education needed to become a boat sailor. Nevertheless, having a solid skill set will make you a more desirable commodity on any team. Some of the essential skills for sailors include:
- Sailing knowledge: Knowledge of the principles of sailing, such as sail handling, boat handling, and navigation, is essential.
- Seafaring experience: It is very advantageous to get experience from sailing courses, volunteering on yachts or working for a charter company.
- Physical fitness: Sailing is a physically challenging activity; therefore, one must have good stamina, strength, and balance.
- Problem-solving skills: The thinking and problem-solving skills that may be required while on water are needed.
- Teamwork: Sailors must have good interpersonal skills to cooperate with other sailors and make the boat work effectively.
Ready to Chart Your Course as a Sailor?
Fascinated by the world of sailing and the responsibilities that come with it? Defiance Sail Charters can help you turn your landlubber dreams into reality. We offer a variety of sailing adventures, from beginner courses to crewed charters. Learn essential skills, experience the thrill of the open water, and become an integral part of the crew. Head over to Defiance Sail Charters today!
