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Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maritime Talent Solutions

Boat Captain

Page, AZ · On-site

Boat Captain Position Embark on an unforgettable summer adventure as a boat captain on Lake Powell in Arizona! Join the APEX team and navigate the breathtaking Lake Powell! Position: Boat Captain ...

CCMC

Boat Captain

Cypress, TX · On-site

Boat Captain Opportunity Are you ready to make a splash? Do you want a career with a company that values its employees? We are CCMC, a community management company specializing in master-planned ...

Dubois Boi LLC

Boat Captain

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$400 - $1K/wk

We are seeking a licensed Boat Captain to operate pontoon boats for our rental business on Lake Norman. This role involves solo operation of vessels, providing guided tours to customers during the ...

Suntex Marinas

Marina Boat Captain

Sarasota, FL · On-site

The Boat Captain is responsible for the operation and safety of the property's vessel. This person should work in a safe manner consistence with USCG regulations. Daily maintenance inspections to ...

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure

Boat Captain

Lake Lure, NC · On-site

Boat Captain at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure Love being on the water and sharing great stories? As a Boat Captain at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, you'll lead scenic tours while bringing the history and ...

David Evans and Associates

Boat Captain

Vancouver, WA · On-site

Boat Captain Marine Services Jobs with David Evans and Associates: At David Evans and Associates, Inc., our Marine team leads in hydrographic and marine geophysical surveying. With advanced ...

David Evans and Associates

Boat Captain

Vancouver, WA · On-site

Boat Captain Marine Services Jobs with David Evans and Associates: At David Evans and Associates, Inc., our Marine team leads in hydrographic and marine geophysical surveying. With advanced ...

David Evans and Associates

Boat Captain

Vancouver, WA · On-site

Boat Captain Marine Services Jobs with David Evans and Associates: At David Evans and Associates, Inc., our Marine team leads in hydrographic and marine geophysical surveying. With advanced ...

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How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Boat Captain Do?

A Boat Captain is the leader of a naval vessel and has overall command and control of the navigation, maneuvering, stowage, communications, and safe handling of the ship. The Boat Captain is a licensed professional and ensures that the ship complies with local and international rules and policy regarding their vessel. Not only does this professional oversee the tasks of the crew, but they also ensure that all daily duties are completed, and that equipment is operational. There is generally a Captain onboard no matter the type of vessel, such as a deep-sea fishing boat or an aircraft carrier. The Boat Captain is an organized individual with years of experience working on a boat.

What are some common challenges Boat Captains face when managing a crew and passengers during trips?

Boat Captains often encounter challenges balancing crew management with the safety and comfort of passengers. They must ensure clear communication among crew members, address unexpected weather or technical issues, and respond calmly to emergencies. Captains also need to provide excellent customer service, handle passenger concerns, and enforce safety protocols, all while maintaining operational efficiency. Successfully managing these aspects requires strong leadership, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of maritime regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boat Captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Captain, you need a thorough understanding of navigation, seamanship, maritime laws, and often a U.S. Coast Guard license or equivalent certification. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radar, radio communication equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills set exceptional captains apart. These abilities ensure safe vessel operation, compliance with regulations, and the effective management of crew and passengers.

How much does a 100 ton captain make a year?

A 100-ton boat captain's annual salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of vessel operated. Captains with extensive experience and certifications such as USCG licenses tend to earn higher wages, especially in commercial or specialized maritime environments.

How to get a job as a boat captain?

To become a boat captain, you typically need to obtain relevant certifications such as a USCG captain's license, gain experience operating vessels, and demonstrate strong navigation and safety skills. Many employers prefer candidates with maritime training, a clean safety record, and knowledge of local waterways and regulations.

What is the difference between Boat Captain vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectBoat CaptainMarine Deckhand
CertificationsCaptain's license, STCW certificationSTCW certification, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentOperates vessels, manages crew, plans routesAssists with vessel maintenance, handles cargo, supports navigation
Industry UsageCommercial, recreational, passenger vesselsCommercial ships, yachts, ferries

While both roles work on vessels, the Boat Captain is responsible for navigation, safety, and overall vessel operation, requiring a captain's license. The Marine Deckhand supports these operations, focusing on maintenance and assisting the crew. The roles often overlap in the maritime industry, but the Boat Captain holds more responsibility and required certifications.

What does a Boat Captain do?

A Boat Captain is responsible for operating and navigating boats or ships, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo during voyages. Their duties include overseeing the maintenance of the vessel, complying with maritime laws and regulations, and managing the crew on board. Boat Captains may work on various types of vessels, such as ferries, private yachts, fishing boats, or commercial ships. They are also trained to handle emergency situations and weather-related challenges to ensure smooth and safe operations.
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Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Boat Captain

NEIGHBORHOOD ESTABLISHMENT

Christiansted, VI • On-site

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description

The Boat Captain for Hotel on the Cay operation the company ferry between the hotel and boardwalk.

The Boat Captain is required to hold a 50 ton US Coast Guard Approved Certification with prior

experience and the ability to pass random drug & alcohol testing. This position is a high profile,

customer service position. As first point of contact for our guests you are required to welcome them

and assist with loading and unloading luggage and assist guests with mobility issues. Customer safety is

imperative, and it is the captain's responsibility to ensure that all passengers are seated until the boat is

securely docked. The Boat Captain will ensure that the highest standards of hospitality and welcome are

always demonstrated, and that all guest requests are dealt with in a prompt and courteous manner.

Requirements

BOAT CAPTAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1.  Ferry hotel guests and beach/bar guests to and from the Boardwalk
  2.  Assist hotel guests with loading and unloading of luggage.
  3.  Ensuring that beach guests do not bring coolers, food, chairs, umbrellas or pets and any other policies.
  4. During each shift complete the Daily Vessel Inspection Report. Includes checking all fluid levels, bilge pumps, strainer, navigational lights and life jackets are on board [PSD].
  5. Assist in getting minor tasks completed as required and assigned; i.e. accepting deliveries, fueling the boat and any other tasks as assigned.
  6. Complete work orders and communicate accordingly [group text, WhatsApp]
  7. Communicate all pertinent information accordingly [group text, WhatsApp]
  8. Wipe down seats as needed and remove sand from the floor.
  9. Communicate deliveries with front desk staff.
  10. Keep current on Fire Drill, Abandon Ship Drill and Man Overboard Drill (scheduled quarterly)
  11. In the event a passenger is injured on the boat it must be reported to the General Manager immediately and an incident report completed citing all pertinent details.
  12. Boat Captains are responsible for assisting guests arriving after hours. Paperwork will be provided as well as keys.
  13. Any staff requiring entry to the front office after hours must be accompanied by either the Boat Captain or Security.
  14. Follow all policy and procedures as assigned and communicated; i.e. Ferry's cell phone and walkie-talkies.

PREREQUISITES:

Previous experience in hospitality would be preferred and commitment to delivering a high level of

customer service. Be a good team player. Able to stand for long hours. The successful candidate is likely

to have a passion for customer service, excellent communication skills and good levels of written and

spoken English. Will have to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

EDUCATION:

High school or equivalent education.

EXPERIENCE:

Previous captain experience is required. The successful candidate is likely to have a passion for customer

service, excellent communication skills and good levels of written and spoken English.

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