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Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dubois Boi LLC

Boat Captain

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$400 - $1.2K/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 ...

Tonopalo Residence Club

Boat Captain

Tahoe Vista, CA · On-site

$55/hr

We are currently hiring a seasonal Boat Captain holding a valid Captain's license. Position is paid hourly plus tips. (June-October) Position has the potential to turn into year-round. Captain is ...

Island Dreamer Sailing Llc

BOAT CAPTAIN

Miami, FL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

As a Boat Captain for Island Dreamer Sailing your duties will include learning the general mechanics and safety equipment for each boat, boat handling, and learning the inlets, shallow reefs, snorkel ...

ANTELOPE POINT HOLDINGS LLC

Boat Captain

Page, AZ

Boat Captain Department: Tours & Charters Salary Range: D.O.E. Reports to: Tours & Charters Manager Employment Status: Seasonal FLSA Status: Non-Exempt POSITION SUMMARY The Boat Captain is ...

Island Dreamer Sailing Llc

BOAT CAPTAIN

Homestead, FL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

As a Boat Captain for Island Dreamer Sailing your duties will include learning the general mechanics and safety equipment for each boat, boat handling, and learning the inlets, shallow reefs, snorkel ...

Galaxy Adventures

Be Seen First

Charter Boat Captain

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$1.0K - $5.0K/wk

The Charter Boat Captain will lead and operate a variety of charter services including recreational trips, fishing charters, and sightseeing tours. This role involves navigating local waters for ...

CCMC

Boat Captain

Cypress, TX · On-site

At CCMC, a Boat Captain helps to create memorable experiences for residents and guests by facilitating safe boat rides within our community. What youll accomplish: * Operating a motor-driven boat to ...

CCMC Community Management

Boat Captain

Cypress, TX · On-site

At CCMC, a Boat Captain helps to create memorable experiences for residents and guests by facilitating safe boat rides within our community. What you'll accomplish: * Operating a motor-driven boat to ...

CCMC Community Management

Boat Captain

Cypress, TX · On-site

At CCMC, a Boat Captain helps to create memorable experiences for residents and guests by facilitating safe boat rides within our community. What youll accomplish: * Operating a motor-driven boat to ...

CCMC

Boat Captain

Cypress, TX

At CCMC, a Boat Captain helps to create memorable experiences for residents and guests by facilitating safe boat rides within our community. What you'll accomplish: * Operating a motor-driven boat to ...

CCMC Community Management

Boat Captain

Cypress, TX · On-site

At CCMC, a Boat Captain helps to create memorable experiences for residents and guests by facilitating safe boat rides within our community. What youll accomplish: * Operating a motor-driven boat to ...

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Boat Captain information

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$5

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$48

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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.

Are boat captains in high demand?

Boat captains are in steady demand, especially in regions with active maritime, tourism, and recreational boating industries. Employment opportunities often depend on experience, certifications such as a USCG license, and the ability to operate various vessel types. The job market can fluctuate with seasonal tourism and economic factors affecting water-based activities.

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.

Is being a boat captain a good career?

Boat captains oversee the operation and safety of vessels, often working in recreational, commercial, or maritime industries. The career can be rewarding for those with strong leadership, navigation skills, and proper certifications, but it may involve irregular hours and physical demands. Job prospects depend on industry demand and geographic location.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Boat Captain

NEIGHBORHOOD ESTABLISHMENT

Christiansted, VI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 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.

Apply