The National Able Seaman (A/B) is an entry- to mid-level Coast Guard certification. The National Able seaman (A/B) is an unlicensed member of the deck department of a merchant ship. An Able seaman is a qualified member of the deck department that may work as a watchstander and/or day worker. An Able seaman may work in any number of capacities and perform general maintenance, repair, sanitation and upkeep of material, equipment, and areas in the deck department. There are various categories of endorsement issued as Able seaman. The endorsement issued to applicants and advancement from one AB endorsement to another depends on their qualifying experience or training.
