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Assistant Boat Captain Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Petersburg, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

CoralTree Hospitality

Concierge

Mineral, VA · On-site

$17/hr

... * Assist with boat-related duties such as preparing boats prior to guest trips, cleaning boats after use, and securing and covering boats when trips are completed * Serve as/ Support boat captains ...

Cutalong at Tributer Resort

Concierge

Mineral, VA · On-site

$22.50 - $29/hr

... * Assist with boat-related duties such as preparing boats prior to guest trips, cleaning boats after use, and securing and covering boats when trips are completed * Serve as/ Support boat captains ...

Cutalong at Tributer Resort

Concierge

Mineral, VA · On-site

$17/hr

... * Assist with boat-related duties such as preparing boats prior to guest trips, cleaning boats after use, and securing and covering boats when trips are completed * Serve as/ Support boat captains ...

McAllister Towing

Licensed Engineers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

... harbor assist work. Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a ... boat. The Licensed Engineer is responsible and accountable to the Port Engineer. The Licensed ...

McAllister Towing

Licensed Engineers

Norfolk, VA

... harbor assist work. Captain Elliott Westall joined the McAllister family in 1997 after a ... boat. The Licensed Engineer is responsible and accountable to the Port Engineer. The Licensed ...

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All JobsBoat Captain JobsAssistant Boat Captain JobsAssistant Boat Captain Jobs in Virginia

Assistant Boat Captain information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do assistant boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant boat captain in Virginia is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant boat captain?

Assistant Boat Captains are maritime professionals who support the primary boat captain in operating and navigating vessels. Their duties often include helping with docking and undocking, overseeing safety procedures, managing crew members, and assisting with routine maintenance. They may also help with passenger communication, emergency drills, and compliance with maritime laws. This role is vital for ensuring smooth and safe boat operations, particularly on larger vessels or those carrying passengers.

What does an assistant boat captain do?

As an Assistant Boat Captain, you can expect to support the Captain in a range of duties, including navigating the vessel, monitoring weather and sea conditions, conducting safety checks, and supervising the crew. You'll often participate in routine maintenance, assist with docking and undocking procedures, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations. Additionally, interacting with passengers and helping to deliver a safe, enjoyable experience are common aspects of the role. The work is highly collaborative, requiring effective communication with the Captain, crew, and sometimes passengers, especially during busy or challenging conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant boat captain?

To thrive as an Assistant Boat Captain, you need a solid understanding of maritime navigation, vessel operations, and safety procedures, often supported by relevant boating licenses or maritime certifications. Familiarity with navigation systems (such as GPS and radar), radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and clear communication help ensure safe and efficient vessel operations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, complying with regulations, and supporting the captain in managing the vessel effectively.

What is the difference between Assistant Boat Captain vs Deckhand?

AspectAssistant Boat CaptainDeckhand
CertificationsUSCG Captain's license, CPR, First AidSTCW Basic Safety Training, CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentOnboard boats, assisting with navigation and operationsOnboard vessels, performing maintenance and safety tasks
Employer & IndustryMarinas, charter companies, cruise linesYacht crews, commercial vessels, recreational boats

The Assistant Boat Captain and Deckhand roles both work onboard boats and require safety certifications. The Assistant Boat Captain typically has more responsibilities, including navigation and assisting with vessel operations, often requiring a captain's license. In contrast, Deckhands focus on maintenance, cleaning, and safety tasks. Both positions are essential in the maritime industry, but the Assistant Boat Captain holds a higher level of responsibility and certification.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Captain jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Boat Captain jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Boat Captain jobs in Virginia?

For Assistant Boat Captain jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Boat Captain jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Boat Captain jobs in Virginia are:

Assistant Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Boat Captain job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,072 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Pontoon Captains

Woodlake Community Association

Midlothian, VA • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

PRIMARY FUNCTION
Responsible for the safe operation and navigation of Woodlake Community Association pontoon boats to provide the highest level of customer service possible. Captains greet and assist residents/guests while maintaining a friendly disposition in a manner consistent with the standards, goals and objectives of the WCA, to maximize boat rentals while creating and enhancing the guests' lake experience.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to:
  1. Greets/assists members and guests.
  2. Safely operates and navigates WCA pontoon boats for reservations made in WCA office.
  3. Performs pre-trip checks of boat prior to departing.
  4. Emphasizes service to residents during his/her trip.
  5. Locks and unlocks boathouse bathrooms.
  6. Calls the reserving party at least three (3) days before the scheduled trip to confirm reservation.
  7. Cleans pontoon boat after every cruise.
  8. Covers pontoon boat completely before leaving.
  9. Charges boat before leaving.
  10. Maintains professional composure in high stress environment.
  11. Complies and adheres to all WCA and Boat House policies and standard operating procedures (SOP's)
  12. Maintains a professional image with the proper uniform standard and maintaining personal hygiene
  13. Reports any damage or required maintenance to Lead Boat Captain.
  14. Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Knowledge of pleasure craft and boating laws, and related boating codes, rules, and regulations.
  • Ability to swim, float and tread water.
  • Service oriented - able to pamper, accommodate and anticipate residents and guests needs.
  • Enjoy working with people and possess a friendly and outgoing personality.
  • Ability to be on time for your shift and maintain schedule provided.
  • Proven ability to properly and safely operate pontoon boats.
  • Effective communication skills with employees at all levels.
  • Sensitivity to problems or challenges - The ability to identify when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong, with the skill to effectively communicate with customers in a professional, consultative manner.
  • Ability to comprehend reading materials.
  • Ability to positively interact with co-workers and have a sense of team.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with the general public.

QUALFICATIONS
  • Certificate of Completion of approved boater safety course.
  • 1-2 years or more hospitality experience, boating experience preferred.
  • Ability to successfully pass a background check and other pre-employment screening
  • Due to insurance requirements, must be 21 year of age or above

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS include but are not limited to:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear and taste or smell
  • Walk/stand for an extended period of time
  • Will regularly ascend/descend ramps and stairs.
  • Will regularly lift and /or move up to 50 pounds
  • Requires specific vision abilities, including ability to adjust focus.
  • Able to hear and speak to employees and residents in person and/or by phone.
  • Able to use hands and fingers to operate boats.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed outdoors in various weather conditions common to Virginia. This position pays $16.50 per hour, plus tips.

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