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Boat Captain Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

BOAT CAPTAIN

Miami, FL ยท 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 ...

BOAT CAPTAIN

Homestead, FL ยท 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 ...

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and Near Costal Florida Bay waters. Our Captains operate in strict compliance with USCG regulations and ...

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL ยท On-site

$7.5K/mo

Seeking an experienced offshore Captain for rotational position on a 100' school ship serving at ... Build a strong sense of teamwork amongst youth and staff on the boat * Hold all youth and rotating ...

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL ยท On-site

$76 - $91/hr

Seeking an experienced offshore Captain for rotational position on a 100' school ship serving at ... Build a strong sense of teamwork amongst youth and staff on the boat * Hold all youth and rotating ...

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL ยท On-site

$7.5K/mo

Seeking an experienced offshore Captain for rotational position on a 100' school ship serving at ... Build a strong sense of teamwork amongst youth and staff on the boat * Hold all youth and rotating ...

Boat Captain

Orange City, FL ยท On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Job Summary: The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and ... Small boat handling skills, passenger vessel experience a plus. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and Near Costal Florida Bay waters. Our Captains operate in strict compliance with USCG regulations and ...

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and Near Costal Florida Bay waters. Our Captains operate in strict compliance with USCG regulations and ...

The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This ... Small boat handling skills, passenger vessel experience a plus. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This ... Small boat handling skills, passenger vessel experience a plus. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This ... Small boat handling skills, passenger vessel experience a plus. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Job Summary: The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and ... Small boat handling skills, passenger vessel experience a plus. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Job Summary: The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and ... Small boat handling skills, passenger vessel experience a plus. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Boat Captain

Panama City Beach, FL ยท On-site

$34.44/hr

About the Role We're seeking a part-time, on-call Boat Captain to support our team in Panama City Beach, Florida Responsibilities Responsibilities * Planning and executing maritime operations ...

Boat Captain

Panama City, FL ยท On-site

$34.44/hr

About the Role We're seeking a part-time, on-call Boat Captain to support our team in Panama City Beach, Florida Responsibilities Responsibilities * Planning and executing maritime operations ...

About the Role We're seeking a part-time, on-call Boat Captain to support our team in Panama City Beach, Florida Responsibilities Responsibilities * Planning and executing maritime operations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Boat Captain information

See Florida salary details

$4

$19

$36

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in Florida is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $22.84 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Is being a boat captain a good career?

Being a boat captain can be a rewarding career for those interested in maritime operations, navigation, and leadership. It requires obtaining proper certifications such as a captain's license, gaining experience, and maintaining safety standards. Job opportunities vary by industry, including recreational, commercial, and transportation sectors, with potential for advancement and varied work environments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Boat Captain jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Boat Captain job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,003 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

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 spots and dangerous shoals of the Biscayne National Park. Great leadership, first aid knowledge and VHF radio communication skills are essential to this job. Internal training on the history and marine biology of the Park is provided and the ability to be an interpretive tour guide is required.

You will also be responsible for the safety of the guests snorkeling and/or diving off the boat as well as helping them with their snorkel/dive gear. You will be responsible for the safety of the passengers while paddle boarding and kayaking off the boat while exploring the Jones Lagoon, and learning to navigate around the Jones Lagoon is essential. You will be loading paddle boards, kayaks and dive gear on the boat, therefore the ability to lift 50 lbs is required.

Being a Team Player is essential to join our operation as we have a dedicated group of employees who have bought in to a culture of teamwork, and many have been with us for years.


Working weekends are required, we are willing to adapt any 5 day work week to your needs as long as both weekend days are worked.
A typical work day at Island Dreamer is between 8-9hrs with the option to work 9 daily.