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Boat Captain Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mormac Marine Group Inc

Captain

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

CAPTAIN About Us Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is a family-oriented boat tour company that was started in 1934, by Milo Welch. For 91 years the traveling public have enjoyed exciting Great Lakes ...

Walstrom Marine

Boat & Yacht Sales

Charlevoix, MI · On-site

Boat and Yacht Sales: Promote and sell a diverse range of boats and yachts from our inventory, ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction throughout the sales process. * Product Knowledge:

Movement Labs

Neighborhood Captain, Detroit

Detroit, MI · On-site

$25/hr

As a Neighborhood Captain, you will focus on becoming a trusted neighbor and civic resource provider. You will organize lower turnout voters using door-to-door canvassing, phone calls, personalized ...

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All JobsBoat Captain JobsBoat Captain Jobs in Michigan

Boat Captain information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$22

$42

How much do boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat captain in Michigan is $22.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $26.59 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.
More about Boat Captain jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Captain jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Boat Captain jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Boat Captain jobs in Michigan? For Boat Captain jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boat Captain jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Captain jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Boat Captain jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Boat Captain job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Boat Captain jobs in MI? For Boat Captain jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Captain job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 19% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,657 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Captain

Mormac Marine Group Inc

Sault Sainte Marie, MI • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

CAPTAIN

About Us

Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is a family-oriented boat tour company that was started in 1934, by Milo Welch. For 91 years the traveling public have enjoyed exciting Great Lakes Maritime Adventures with the Original Soo Locks Boat Tours in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan taking passengers through the wonders of the Soo Locks and St Mary’s River. In 2022, we joined the Interlake family of businesses and are now known as Soo Maritime Services, Inc.

Job Summary:

We are looking for an energetic, friendly, and customer-oriented Captain to provide passengers with an unforgettable maritime experience through the Soo Locks. This role offers the opportunity to work in a fun and dynamic environment, interacting with tourists from all over the world and sharing the rich history and beauty of the Great Lakes.


Primary Responsibilities:

  • Passenger Safety
  • Vessel Operation
  • Vessel Safety
  • Over-see the day-to-day operations of the crew
  • Radio Communications

Knowledge, Skill and Experience Requirements:

  • U.S. Coast Guard Licensed as a Master of vessels at least 100 gross tons.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • FCC Marine Radio Operators Permit (MROP)
  • First Aid/CPR certification
  • Successful completion of and alcohol and drug tests (mandated by the USCG) including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident/incident testing.