Premier Crew Placement & Maritime Training in Plymouth

Aqua Haul stands as the vital link between ambitious maritime professionals and vessel operators seeking top-tier talent. Our dual approach ensures that qualified individuals find meaningful careers while our partners secure screened, competent crews that elevate operational standards and safety.

We provide comprehensive solutions, from rigorous crew screening and placement to advanced training in safety, skill development, and career advancement. Benefit from our extensive network, robust processes, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Success at Sea: By the Numbers

500+

Successful Placements Annually

95%

Crew Retention Rate

98%

Certification Pass Rate

1,000+

Qualified Professionals

Professional Crew Placement for All Maritime Positions

Aqua Haul specializes in sourcing and placing highly skilled maritime professionals across a diverse range of positions, ensuring your vessel operates with unparalleled efficiency, safety, and expertise. Our rigorous selection process guarantees candidates possess the necessary certifications, experience, and the right attitude for your team.

Experienced fishing vessel captain looking out to sea
Captain & Officers

We provide experienced leaders certified with local knowledge and impeccable safety records. Our candidates ensure navigation precision, regulatory compliance, and effective crew management.

Deck crew member on a commercial fishing vessel handling nets
Deck Crew

Skilled deckhands, bosuns, and specialists trained in essential safety protocols, equipment operation, and vessel maintenance. Ready to contribute effectively to all demanding maritime operations.

Marine engineer inspecting an engine on a ship
Engineering Staff

Qualified marine engineers and mechanics proficient in diagnostics, repair, and preventative maintenance for all vessel systems, ensuring continuous, reliable operation at sea.

Fishing crew processing fresh catch on deck
Processing Crew

Experienced personnel for efficient fish handling, processing, and quality control. They uphold the highest standards for seafood integrity from catch to cold chain, maximising product value.

Diverse group of maritime professionals standing together
Temporary & Permanent Solutions

Whether you require seasonal support or long-term engagement, Aqua Haul offers flexible staffing solutions to meet your operational demands with professionalism and reliability.

Navigation officer using advanced electronic charts
Specialist Roles

From offshore renewable technicians to specialized fishing gear operators, we can source experts for unique roles, ensuring your niche requirements are met with precision.

Maritime Training Programs for Career Advancement

Empower your career with Aqua Haul's accredited maritime training programs. Designed for career progression and compliance, our courses equip you with the essential skills and certifications demanded by today's marine industries. From foundational safety to advanced officer qualifications, chart your course with us.

Basic Safety Training (STCW)

Essential certifications including Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, Elementary First Aid, and Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities.

  • STCW Compliant
  • Practical & Theoretical
  • Experienced Instructors
Advanced Certifications

Progress to Officer of the Watch (OOW), Chief Mate, or Master qualifications. Specialized courses in advanced firefighting, medical first aid, and marine engineering qualifications.

  • MCA Approved Courses
  • Career Progression Focus
  • Industry-Recognized
Specialized Skills Development

Gain expertise in fish handling techniques, quality control, advanced gear operation, GMDSS, and ship's cook certification. Practical, hands-on training for real-world application.

  • Practical Workshops
  • Niche Industry Skills
  • Enhanced Employability
Leadership & Management

Develop critical leadership competencies, crew management strategies, conflict resolution, and safety leadership skills essential for senior maritime roles. Focus on effective communication.

  • Supervisory Preparedness
  • Team Dynamics
  • Crisis Management
Continuing Professional Development

Stay current with regular updates on evolving maritime regulations, new technologies, and best practices. Custom workshops available for specific fleet requirements and industry shifts.

  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Technological Adaption
  • Lifelong Learning
Custom Corporate Training

Tailored training solutions for maritime companies, addressing specific fleet requirements, operational challenges, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety excellence.

  • Fleet-Specific Content
  • On-Site or Remote
  • Measurable Outcomes

Rigorous Screening Process Ensuring Quality Personnel

At Aqua Haul, our commitment to excellence begins with an exhaustive screening and vetting process. We meticulously evaluate every candidate to guarantee they meet the highest standards of safety, professional competency, and reliability, providing you with absolute confidence in your crew.

Detailed flowchart of Aqua Haul's crew screening process
  • Comprehensive Background Checks

    Thorough verification of criminal history, employment references, and personal conduct to ensure integrity and trustworthiness.

  • Certification Verification

    Direct confirmation of all maritime certifications, licenses, and endorsements with issuing authorities, alongside robust tracking for renewal compliance.

  • Skills Assessment & Experience Evaluation

    Practical testing, simulated scenarios, and in-depth interviews assess technical proficiency and real-world experience relevant to specific maritime roles.

  • Medical Fitness Evaluation

    Mandatory medical examinations and assessments to certify physical and mental fitness for duty, adhering to international maritime health standards.

  • Ongoing Performance Monitoring

    We facilitate continuous feedback loops between employers and placed crew, ensuring sustained performance and opportunities for professional growth.

Extensive Database of Qualified Maritime Professionals

Access Aqua Haul's unparalleled network of over 1,000 highly qualified maritime professionals. Our dynamic database features verified qualifications, real-time availability, and detailed skill categorizations, allowing for swift and precise crew matching across all disciplines.

Precision Matching

Our intelligent system accurately matches your operational needs with the most suitable candidates, considering skills, experience, and certifications.

Real-time Availability

Immediate access to candidate availability, enabling rapid deployment and efficient crew changes to minimize downtime.

UK-Wide Coverage

Candidates with mobility preferences noted, ensuring we can supply talent across the entire UK coastal regions and beyond.

Digital interface showing a candidate profile with skills and availability

Your Partner in Maritime Recruitment

Aqua Haul’s database is more than just a list of names; it’s a living repository of maritime talent, continuously updated with new qualifications, performance feedback, and availability status. We eliminate the guesswork from recruitment, providing you with a streamlined, reliable solution.

  • Verified qualifications with external authorities.
  • Comprehensive skill categorization across all marine disciplines.
  • Performance ratings based on employer feedback and work history.
  • Dedicated support for a seamless recruitment process.
Access Candidate Profiles

Success Stories from Crew Members and Employers

Hear directly from those who have experienced the Aqua Haul difference. Our success stories highlight the transformative impact of our crew placement and training services on individuals' careers and the operational efficiency of maritime businesses.

Portrait of Captain James Wilson
Captain James Wilson

Master Mariner, Fishing Fleet

"Aqua Haul's training programs were instrumental in my journey from a deckhand to a fully qualified Master Mariner. The comprehensive courses and practical experience provided a clear pathway for my career progression. Now, I confidently command a vessel, thanks to their unwavering support and exceptional training."

Logo of Plymouth Fishing Fleet
Plymouth Fishing Fleet

Vessel Operations Director

"Partnering with Aqua Haul has revolutionised our crew management. With their rigorous screening and efficient placement services, we've achieved a 100% crew retention rate over the last two years. Their understanding of our needs and the quality of their candidates are simply unparalleled."

Portrait of Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell

Chief Engineer, Offshore Support Vessel

"As a woman in maritime engineering, finding the right support was crucial. Aqua Haul's engineering certification program was intensive but incredibly rewarding. I'm now a Chief Engineer, and I attribute much of my success to the foundations laid by their expert instructors and state-of-the-art facilities."

Logo of Cornwall Trawlers
Cornwall Trawlers

Fleet Manager

"Before Aqua Haul, recruitment was a significant bottleneck. Their efficient crew services have slashed our recruitment time by 80%, allowing us to focus on fishing operations. The quality of crew they provide is consistently high, ensuring our fleet is always optimally staffed."

State-of-the-Art Training Facilities & Equipment

Aqua Haul boasts a modern, purpose-built training center in Plymouth, equipped with cutting-edge simulators and practical workshops. Our commitment to realistic training scenarios ensures that our students gain hands-on experience and proficiency with the latest maritime technologies and safety protocols.

Modern maritime classroom with interactive screens

Modern Classrooms & Workshops

Spacious, interactive learning environments alongside dedicated practical areas for hands-on skill development.

Ship bridge simulator with multiple screens

Advanced Simulation Equipment

Full-mission bridge, engine room, and GMDSS simulators for realistic navigation, machinery, and emergency scenario training.

Small training vessel at sea

Sea-Going Training Vessels

Practical experience and assessment conducted aboard our dedicated training vessels, bridging theory with real-world marine operations.

Clear Career Progression Pathways in Maritime Industry

Aqua Haul is dedicated to fostering long-term careers within the maritime sector. We illuminate clear pathways for professional growth, offering structured training and mentorship to guide individuals from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles. Chart your ambition with confidence.

Deckhand to Able Seaman

Start your journey at sea and progress through essential certifications and practical experience to become an Able Seaman with our tailored support.

Officer Track: Third Mate to Captain

Defined progression from aspiring Third Mate through OOW, Chief Mate, to ultimately commanding a vessel as Captain, with full certification guidance.

Engineering Path: Rating to Chief

Advance from an Engine Room Rating through various engineering qualifications, culminating in the esteemed role of Chief Engineer.

Specialized Roles & Mentorship

Explore opportunities in specialized fields like Safety Officer or Marine Surveyor, supported by ongoing mentorship and career counseling.