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Charter Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Galaxy Adventures

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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 ...

ANTELOPE POINT HOLDINGS LLC

Boat Captain

Page, AZ · On-site

Non-Exempt POSITION SUMMARY The Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tour and charter vessels, including vessel seaworthiness, safety, security, navigation, and ...

ANTELOPE POINT HOLDINGS LLC

Boat Captain

Page, AZ · On-site

$25/hr

Boat Captain Department: APEX Salary Range: D.O.E. Reports to: APEX Manager Employment Status ... Previous experience operating passenger vessels, charter vessels, or large recreational boats.

PURE EVENTS LP

Proud Mary Captain

Entriken, PA · On-site

... Charter Cruises * Hours are flexible. However, some evening, weekend, and summer holiday ... Captains also must pass a practical driving test issued by PA Fish and Boat Commission * Candidates ...

PURE EVENTS LP

Proud Mary Captain

Entriken, PA · On-site

... Charter Cruises * Hours are flexible. However, some evening, weekend, and summer holiday ... Captains also must pass a practical driving test issued by PA Fish and Boat Commission * Candidates ...

Harborside Corporation

The Captain shall oversee operations of 52' Day Charter Catamaran Heavenly Days. The Captain will ... To address every single system on the boat monthly. * To find problems before they become a problem.

Harborside Corporation

The Captain shall oversee operations of 52' Day Charter Catamaran Heavenly Days. The Captain will ... To address every single system on the boat monthly. * To find problems before they become a problem.

Boats and Fun

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Full-Time & Part-Time USCG Captain / Marine Operations Team Member

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Private Boat Tours * Boat Rentals * Golf Cart Rentals * Bikes, Kayaks & Paddleboard Rentals ... Charter captains looking for additional income * Anyone looking for flexible work on the water ...

Mystic Seaport Museum

Waterfront Tour Captain

Mystic, CT · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

ENCORE (motor yacht for charter). ENCORE operates as a charter only vessel, 3- or 5-hour downriver ... USCG 25-ton inland captains license for EXPRESS, ENCORE, and LIBERTY USCG 50-ton inland captains ...

Mystic Seaport Museum

Waterfront Tour Captain

Mystic, CT · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

ENCORE operates as a charter only vessel, 3- or 5-hour downriver charters into Fishers Island Sound ... Qualifications: · USCG 25-ton inland captains license for EXPRESS, ENCORE, and LIBERTY · USCG 50 ...

Red Hospitality

Captain

HI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Join the Crew of Maui's Most Luxurious Vessels Ali'i Class Yachts and RED Hospitality are now hiring USCG-licensed Captains for a variety of premium charter experiences. Step aboard vessels that ...

Red Hospitality & Leisure

Join the Crew of Maui's Most Luxurious Vessels Ali'i Class Yachts and RED Hospitality are now hiring USCG-licensed Captains for a variety of premium charter experiences. Step aboard vessels that ...

Red Hospitality & Leisure

Current USCG credential - Captains * Master 50 Ton near coastal * Sail endorsement required for ... Previous day charter experience is a plus * Knowledge of local destinations * Basic knowledge of ...

Red Hospitality & Leisure

Current USCG credential - Captains * * Master 50 Ton near coastal * Sail endorsement required for ... Previous day charter experience is a plus * Knowledge of local destinations * Basic knowledge of ...

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Charter Boat Captain information

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How much do charter boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for charter 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 charter boat captain do?

A Charter Boat Captain is responsible for operating boats that are rented out for private trips, fishing excursions, sightseeing tours, or other recreational activities. They navigate the vessel, ensure passenger safety, and often provide guidance or instruction related to the activity, such as fishing techniques or local information. Additionally, Charter Boat Captains must maintain their boats, adhere to maritime regulations, and ensure all necessary permits and licenses are up to date. Their role combines maritime expertise with customer service skills to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for clients.

What does a charter boat captain do?

As a charter boat captain, your job is to take passengers on tours to their requested destination. This may involve travel along lakes, a river, or the ocean. Some guests are there solely to sightsee, while others plan to go fishing, participate in water sports, or even learn more about operating boats. Trips that focus on adults usually have some food and entertainment aboard, while trips with children usually leave the alcohol behind. Some charter boat captains are independent operators, while others work exclusively for a single company. Even if you plan to eventually operate your own commercial boat, working for a charter company is a great way to get started.

What is the difference between Charter Boat Captain vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectCharter Boat CaptainMarine Deckhand
CertificationsCaptain's license, CPR, first aidSTCW certification, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentLeads trips, manages crew, interacts with clientsAssists with maintenance, safety, and docking
Industry UsageOwned or operated by individuals or companies for passenger tripsEmployed on commercial or private vessels for support roles

The main difference is that a Charter Boat Captain is responsible for leading trips, managing the vessel, and ensuring passenger safety, while a Marine Deckhand assists with vessel operations, maintenance, and safety tasks. Both roles require safety certifications, but the Captain holds a higher license level and has more leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a charter boat captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Charter Boat Captain, you need a valid captain’s license (such as the USCG OUPV or Master), strong navigational skills, and a solid understanding of maritime laws and safety procedures. Familiarity with GPS, radar, marine radios, and vessel maintenance systems is crucial. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities set outstanding captains apart in managing clients and handling unexpected situations. These skills and qualities ensure safe voyages, satisfied customers, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by charter boat captains during busy seasons, and how can they be managed?

During peak seasons, Charter Boat Captains often face challenges such as managing high demand, ensuring guest safety, and maintaining their vessel under a tight schedule. It's important to stay organized by developing a clear booking system and preparing backup plans for weather or equipment issues. Effective communication with crew members and guests helps ensure smooth operations and a positive experience for everyone on board. Additionally, regular maintenance checks and proactive planning can minimize downtime and safety risks.
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Charter Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Charter Boat Captain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Charter Boat Captain

Galaxy Adventures

Fort Myers, FL • On-site

$1.0K - $5.0K/wk

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

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 frequent short trips as well as occasional extended journeys. The captain ensures passenger safety, manages customer relations, and performs minimal preventative maintenance on the vessel. Compensation includes an hourly wage plus tips.

Responsibilities

  • Navigate vessels safely for recreational, fishing, and sightseeing trips
  • Manage onboard safety and ensure compliance with maritime regulations
  • Engage with customers to provide a positive and enjoyable experience
  • Perform minimal preventative maintenance and oversee vessel upkeep
  • Monitor weather conditions and adjust plans accordingly

Required Qualifications

  • U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels – OUPV license)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in navigation and boat handling
  • Ability to assess weather and ensure safety compliance
  • Mechanical knowledge related to vessel operation
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Team leadership capabilities