A formal designation for a seaman who possesses a specific level of experience, training, and physical capability. In the merchant marine, an Able-Bodied Seaman (AB) holds a credential proving they can stand watch, handle mooring lines, and operate deck machinery without supervision.
Heard on the job
The chief mate wants two able-bodied hands on the bow for the mooring operation.
Also heard as
- AB
- Able seaman
Do not mix it up with
- Able: Able is the general descriptor, while able-bodied is the specific regulatory or naval rating.