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Boat Tour Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shoreline Sightseeing

USCG Licensed Captain

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29/hr

Docents (Tour Guides) If you're an experienced mariner who values leadership, safety, and professionalism, we invite you to join our Marine Operations team. Apply today and become a Captain with ...

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How much do boat tour guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for boat tour guide in the United States is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Boat Tour Guide, you need knowledge of local waterways, navigation skills, and often a boating license or certification in CPR and first aid. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS systems, and safety equipment is typically required. Outstanding communication, storytelling, and customer service skills help create engaging and enjoyable experiences for guests. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, delivering informative tours, and building positive customer relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by Boat Tour Guides during a typical tour?

Boat Tour Guides often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, ensuring passenger safety, and keeping tours engaging for diverse groups. They must be prepared to adjust their route or narration based on unexpected events, like wildlife sightings or waterway traffic. Managing a group with varying interests and comfort levels requires strong communication and customer service skills, as well as the ability to remain calm and resourceful in dynamic situations.

What does a Boat Tour Guide do?

A Boat Tour Guide leads groups of people on water-based tours, providing commentary about the sights, history, and local wildlife. They ensure passenger safety, answer questions, and often share interesting facts or stories to make the tour engaging. Boat Tour Guides may also assist with basic boat operations, enforce safety regulations, and handle emergencies if needed. Their main goal is to create an enjoyable and informative experience for everyone on board.

What is the difference between Boat Tour Guide vs Marine Naturalist?

AspectBoat Tour GuideMarine Naturalist
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, boating licensesMarine biology, environmental science certifications
Work EnvironmentOn boats, tourist settings, outdoorMarine habitats, research vessels, outdoor
Employer & IndustryTour companies, cruise linesResearch institutions, parks, eco-tours
Search & ComparisonTour guiding, customer serviceMarine education, conservation

While both roles involve working on or near water, a Boat Tour Guide primarily focuses on leading tourists and providing entertainment or information about the area. A Marine Naturalist emphasizes educating visitors about marine ecosystems and conservation, often requiring specialized biological knowledge. The roles overlap in outdoor work environments and some certifications but differ in focus and expertise.

More about Boat Tour Guide jobs
What states have the most Boat Tour Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Boat Tour Guide jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Boat Tour Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Boat Tour Guide jobs are:
Boat Tour Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boat Tour Guide job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,124 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

USCG Licensed Captain

Shoreline Marine Company

Chicago, IL • On-site

$32 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

USCG Licensed Captain

Seasonal | Spring–November 2026

Position Summary

Shoreline Sightseeing is seeking experienced and safety-focused Captains to operate our passenger vessels on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Captains are responsible for the safe navigation and operation of vessels while ensuring the security and well-being of both crew members and passengers.In this leadership role, you will oversee vessel operations, guide marine crew, and maintain compliance with all U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Captains play a critical role in delivering safe, smooth, and memorable tours while maintaining Shoreline’s high operational standards.This position requires strong situational awareness, sound judgment, and a commitment to maintaining a professional and safety-first environment on board. *Training will be paid at Captain Training pay rate of $29/hour until signed off.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely navigate and operate Shoreline vessels along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan

  • Ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew members

  • Enforce company policies and safety procedures

  • Lead and supervise onboard Marine Crew during daily operations

  • Conduct emergency drills and provide training for both new and experienced crew members

  • Monitor, document, and report incidents or operational concerns when necessary

  • Serve as Vessel Security Officer in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard security regulations

  • Coordinate with maintenance personnel to address vessel maintenance or operational needs

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and well-prepared vessel at all times

What We’re Looking For

  • Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills

  • Commitment to safety, compliance, and professional vessel operations

  • Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations

  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions

  • Ability to stand for extended periods while operating the vessel

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and climb ladders or access confined spaces

  • Availability during peak tourism periods, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Qualifications

  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

  • Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)

  • U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate

  • Marine Radio Operator Permit (MROP)

  • CPR / First Aid Certification

Benefits*

  • 401k Retirement Plan w/ Employer contributions
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Year-round Health Insurance (BCBSIL)
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life/Disability Insurance
  • Up to $10,000 annual performance/attendance based bonus
    *Must be a full-time employee
Why Join Shoreline?

Captains play a vital leadership role in one of Chicago’s most iconic waterfront experiences. This position offers the opportunity to operate passenger vessels in a dynamic urban waterway while leading a professional marine crew and delivering safe, memorable experiences for thousands of guests each season.

Additional Opportunities (subject to change)

  • Marine Crew (subject to pre-employment and random drug testing in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations)

    • Deckhands

    • Bartenders

  • Sales Team Members

  • Docents (Tour Guides)

If you’re an experienced mariner who values leadership, safety, and professionalism, we invite you to join our Marine Operations team.

Apply today and become a Captain with Shoreline Sightseeing for the 2026 season!

Apply