The bosun on an offshore supply vessel carries more operational weight than a bosun on a cargo ship. The work is more varied, the physical demands are higher and the pay reflects this.
**What the Work Actually Is**
Deck cargo operations near installations are the defining part of the role. The bosun leads the deck team during supply transfers, managing crane lifts, rigging and cargo securing while the vessel holds station on DP a short distance from the platform.
On AHTS vessels the bosun works the anchor handling deck during rig moves. This involves wire management, chain handling and equipment that operates under extreme loads. Working deck experience on anchor handling operations is one of the more specific and valued skill sets in the offshore rating sector.
Maintenance between operations continues regardless of vessel type. Deck machinery, mooring equipment, fire and safety gear. The offshore bosun runs a tighter maintenance cycle than most cargo ship bosuns because the equipment is used more intensively.
**Certificates**
Standard STCW certificates for the bosun rating. Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats. BOSIET for North Sea and most established offshore regions. HUET where helicopter transfer is part of the operation.
Some operators require deck equipment training specific to offshore crane operations and anchor handling gear. This is typically provided at company level rather than through a standalone external course.
**Pay**
North Sea bosun on a PSV: $4,500 to $6,500 per month on 28/28 rotation.
North Sea bosun on an AHTS: $5,500 to $8,000 per month on 28/28 rotation.
West Africa and Southeast Asia sit lower, typically 20 to 30 percent below North Sea rates.
**The AHTS Premium**
Bosuns with anchor handling experience consistently earn more than PSV bosuns. The operational risk and physical demands of working deck during anchor handling commands a real market premium. Officers and ratings who build this experience through early AHTS contracts find it follows them through the career.