Mess Boy — Your First Job at Sea Without Experience
Mess Boy (messman) is an entry-level position in the vessel’s Catering Department. A mess boy assists the Cook in the galley, serves and cleans the mess room, and helps maintain cleanliness in accommodation and public areas onboard.It is one of the few maritime positions available without previous sea service — an ideal starting point for a maritime career and entry-level maritime jobs.JobMarineMan is a direct hiring platform where seafarers apply directly to verified shipowners without intermediaries or agency commissions.→ View Mess Boy Vacancies
What Does a Mess Boy Do?
Mess Boy (messman, galley assistant) is a junior rating position within the Steward Department onboard merchant vessels.On ships with crews of 20–30 people, the mess boy assists the Cook, serves meals, maintains the mess room, and supports general housekeeping duties.Main responsibilities include:
assisting in the galley;
food preparation support;
dishwashing;
table service;
mess room cleaning;
cabin and accommodation cleaning;
laundry assistance;
food supplies support;
maintaining MLC 2006 hygiene standards.
On larger vessels, a messman may also assist in preparing simple meals under the supervision of the Cook.
Required Certificates for Mess Boy Jobs
Most Mess Boy vacancies require:
Basic Safety Training (VI/1);
Proficiency in Survival Craft (VI/2);
Advanced Fire Fighting (VI/3);
Designated Security Duties (VI/6-2);
Seafarer’s Medical Certificate.
Previous sea experience is NOT required.This is the main difference compared to positions such as:
For Mess Boy positions, a basic STCW package and motivation to work at sea are usually enough.Basic English communication skills are considered an advantage.→ Upload CV and Apply
On tankers, messman positions are part of the catering crew and involve participation in regular safety drills.Salaries are usually higher compared to dry cargo fleet.
Yes. It is one of the most accessible entry-level maritime jobs for beginners without sea service.
What Certificates Are Required?
Minimum STCW package:
BST;
PSCRB;
AFF;
DSD.
How Much Does a Mess Boy Earn?
Average salary:
$800–1,600 per month;
highest salaries are usually on LNG and offshore fleet.
What Is the Difference Between a Mess Boy and a Steward?
Mess Boy is an entry-level Steward Department position focused on assisting the Cook and maintaining cleanliness.Steward is usually a more senior hospitality role.
