Able seaman

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Able seaman

Able seamen generally serve as a ship's helmsmen, relying on visual references, compasses, and a rudder angle indicator to steer a steady course as directed by the mate or other officer on the bridge.
General
Other names	Able rate
Department	Deck department
Reports to	boatswain, chief mate
Licensed	No
Duties	To be able at a moment's notice
Requirements	Able seaman's certificate
Watchstanding
Watch (at sea)	Helmsman, Lookout (varies)
Watch (in port)	Varies (varies)

An able seaman (AB) is a seaman and member of the deck department of a merchant ship with more than two years' experience at sea and considered "well acquainted with his duty".^[1] An AB may work as a watchstander, a day worker, or a combination of these roles. Once a sufficient amount of sea time is acquired, then the AB can apply to take a series of courses/examinations to become certified as an officer.^[2]