Getting a ship safely across the seas demands many skills. Find out why navigation, crew management, cargo stowing, engineering, communications and hotel skills are vital.

Staff structure

Discover in this section the crew structure on board ship. The chain of command stretching down from the captain to scullion and how many crew were needed to ensure the smooth running of a great liner.

Up on the deck and on the bridge

Up on the deck and on the bridge Navigating and maintenance of the ship falls to the officers and deck crew. Discover how a constant watch is kept on the sea and the ship to ensure a safe journey.

The engine room

The lungs of the ship, situated below the water line were noisy and hot with furnaces being constantly fed tonnes of coal. In this section read about those who ran and worked in the engine rooms, keeping the screws turning and providing the ship with electricity.

Running the hotel

To make sure passengers are kept happy and comfortable during their trip the hotel crew are there to feed, look after and entertain them. Discover what it takes to run a floating hotel and what career aspirations a steward could have.

Women at sea

From being a stewardess or nursery nurse in 1930s to an engineering officer today, the future for women at sea has many more opportunities.