Boatswain vs. Coxswain — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 26, 2024
Boatswain focuses on the maintenance and operation of the ship and its equipment, whereas Coxswain is responsible for steering the boat and commanding its crew during navigation.
Difference Between Boatswain and Coxswain
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A boatswain, often pronounced and sometimes spelled as "bosun," is a senior deckhand on a ship responsible for maintaining the vessel's hull, deck equipment, and rigging. Whereas a coxswain is a person designated to steer a boat, particularly in rowing, navy, and lifeboat operations, focusing on navigation and crew coordination.
The boatswain works under the direct command of the ship's captain or first officer, playing a critical role in ensuring the seaworthiness of the ship through maintenance, repairs, and overseeing deck crew operations. On the other hand, the coxswain, especially in rowing contexts, acts as the in-boat commander, responsible for steering the boat, executing race strategies, and coordinating the power and rhythm of the rowers.
In the context of larger naval or merchant ships, the boatswain's duties encompass a broader range of responsibilities, including supervising loading and unloading of cargo, anchoring, and sometimes even handling sails in the case of sailboats. Conversely, in the navy or coast guard, a coxswain might be responsible for the command of a smaller vessel or lifeboat, requiring proficiency in navigation and small boat handling skills.
Despite their distinct roles, both the boatswain and the coxswain are essential for the smooth operation of maritime ventures. The boatswain ensures the ship itself is well-maintained and ready for whatever comes its way, while the coxswain focuses on the moment-to-moment navigation and command of the boat or crew, particularly in smaller or more agile watercraft.
Both positions require a deep understanding of maritime practices, but they focus on different aspects of sea navigation and vessel management. The boatswain's expertise lies in the physical condition of the ship and its equipment, whereas the coxswain's skills are in navigation, steering, and crew management, making each role indispensable but distinct within maritime operations.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Role
Maintenance of ship and equipment
Steering and commanding the boat
Key Responsibilities
Overseeing deck crew, maintaining hull and deck equipment
Navigating, coordinating crew, executing maneuvers
Work Environment
On deck of merchant or naval ships
In the cockpit or stern of smaller boats or lifeboats
Skills
Knowledge of ship maintenance and operations
Navigation, steering, crew management
Context of Use
Larger vessels, both naval and merchant
Smaller vessels, including rowboats, lifeboats, and naval craft
Compare with Definitions
Boatswain
A senior crew member responsible for the ship's hull, deck, and equipment maintenance.
The boatswain supervised the crew as they prepared the ship for the storm.
Coxswain
The person in charge of steering and commanding a boat, particularly in rowing, navy, and lifeboat contexts.
The coxswain guided the rowing team to a smooth start in the race.
Boatswain
Works under the ship's captain or first officer.
The captain relied on the boatswain for maintaining the vessel's condition.
Coxswain
Commands the crew and makes navigational decisions during maneuvers.
Under the coxswain's command, the lifeboat reached the survivors in time.
Boatswain
Essential for the long-term maintenance and operation of the ship.
The boatswain's diligent work ensured the ship remained operational throughout the voyage.
Coxswain
Typically positioned at the stern in rowboats for optimal control and visibility.
From her position at the stern, the coxswain kept a vigilant eye on the race's progress.
Boatswain
Oversees the deck crew and ensures the ship is seaworthy.
Every morning, the boatswain assigned tasks to the deckhands.
Coxswain
Critical for the effective operation and safety of the boat and its crew.
The coxswain's leadership was pivotal in securing the team's victory in the regatta.
Boatswain
Proficient in various maintenance tasks, including rigging and repairs.
The boatswain expertly repaired the damaged sail to keep the ship on course.
Coxswain
Mastery in navigation, steering, and crew coordination.
The coxswain's precise steering avoided the hidden reefs near the shore.
Boatswain
A boatswain ( BOH-sən, formerly and dialectally also BOHT-swayn), bo's'n, bos'n, or bosun, also known as a petty officer, deck boss, or a qualified member of the deck department, is the seniormost rate of the deck department and is responsible for the components of a ship's hull. The boatswain supervises the other members of the ship's deck department, and typically is not a watchstander, except on vessels with small crews.
Coxswain
The coxswain ( KOK-sən) is the person in charge of a boat, particularly its navigation and steering. The etymology of the word gives a literal meaning of "boat servant" since it comes from cock, a cockboat or other small vessel kept aboard a ship, and swain, an Old English term derived from the Old Norse sveinn meaning boy or servant.
Boatswain
A warrant officer or petty officer in charge of a ship's rigging, anchors, cables, and deck crew.
Coxswain
The person who steers a ship's boat, racing boat, or other boat.
Boatswain
The officer (or warrant officer) in charge of sails, rigging, anchors, cables etc. and all work on deck of a sailing ship.
Coxswain
A person who usually steers a ship's boat and has charge of its crew.
Boatswain
The petty officer of a merchant ship who controls the work of other seamen.
Coxswain
A person in a racing shell who usually directs the rest of the crew.
Boatswain
A kind of gull, the jaeger.
Coxswain
To act as coxswain or serve as coxswain for.
Boatswain
The tropicbird.
Coxswain
In a ship's boat, the helmsman given charge of the boat's crew.
Boatswain
An officer who has charge of the boats, sails, rigging, colors, anchors, cables, cordage, etc., of a ship, and who also summons the crew, and performs other duties.
Coxswain
(rowing) The member of a crew who steers the shell and coordinates the power and rhythm of the rowers.
Boatswain
The jager gull.
Coxswain
(archaic) The second or third mate of a vessel, in charge of the master's barge.
Boatswain
A petty officer on a merchant ship who controls the work of other seamen
Coxswain
(naval) A rank or position.
Canadian Navy Coxswain (or Capitaine d'Armes) is the senior non-commissioned officer aboard a ship
British Royal Navy Cadets Cadet Coxswain is the highest normal rank which may be achieved.
Coxswain
To act as coxswain for.
To coxswain for a college rowing team
To coxswain a boat
Coxswain
See Cockswain.
Coxswain
The helmsman of a ship's boat or a racing crew
Common Curiosities
What qualifications are needed to become a boatswain?
Typically, extensive experience in maritime operations and a thorough understanding of ship maintenance practices are required.
What qualities make a good coxswain?
Leadership, decisiveness, navigational skill, and the ability to coordinate and motivate the crew.
Can a coxswain perform duties similar to a boatswain on smaller vessels?
Yes, on smaller vessels, a coxswain's duties might overlap with those typically associated with a boatswain, especially in terms of crew management and safety.
How do coxswains influence the outcome of a rowing race?
Through strategic steering, effective communication, and coordinating the crew's rhythm and power.
How important is communication for a coxswain?
Communication is crucial for a coxswain to effectively command the crew and execute maneuvers.
Can a coxswain be part of a ship's crew in larger vessels?
Yes, in larger naval or merchant ships, a coxswain may be responsible for smaller boats or tenders associated with the ship.
Is the role of boatswain limited to sailing ships?
No, boatswains are found on all types of ships, including modern naval and merchant vessels.
What is the difference in authority between a boatswain and a coxswain?
A boatswain has authority over deck operations and maintenance, while a coxswain commands the boat and its crew during navigation.
What impact does a boatswain have on a ship's efficiency?
The boatswain ensures the ship is well-maintained and ready for operations, directly impacting its efficiency and seaworthiness.
Do boatswains and coxswains require certification?
Yes, both roles typically require specific certifications, depending on the jurisdiction and type of vessel.
How does a boatswain contribute to a ship's safety?
By maintaining the vessel's structural integrity and ensuring all safety equipment is operational.
What is a common challenge boatswains face?
Managing the wide range of maintenance tasks and ensuring the ship meets safety regulations.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
