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Charter Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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.

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

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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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

The Dockhand position also doubles as a Mate onboard our 42' Wesmac charter boat. While out on ... Assists the Captain with docking vessel in and out of slip, line handling, fenders, etc. * Assist ...

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 ...

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 ...

HI · On-site

$60/hr

Communicate effectively with boat captains, crew, and fellow photographers to ensure smooth ... Work aboard charter boats for snorkel and sunset tours * You'll be comfortable swimming and taking ...

HI · On-site

$60 - $100/hr

Communicate effectively with boat captains, crew, and fellow photographers to ensure smooth ... Work aboard charter boats for snorkel and sunset tours * You'll be comfortable swimming and taking ...

The Charter Operations Manager is ultimately responsible for daily management of all captains, crew ... boat rentals and equipment, and for the delegation/follow through to Market Director and/or ...

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Charter Boat Captain information

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$5

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$48

How much do charter boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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 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.

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 cities are hiring for Charter Boat Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Charter Boat Captain job openings:

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

The most popular types of Charter Boat Captain jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Charter Boat Captain jobs?

The top employers for Charter Boat Captain jobs are:

What states have the most Charter Boat Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Charter Boat Captain jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Charter Boat Captain jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Charter Boat Captain jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Charter 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.

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title: 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 responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tour and charter vessels, including vessel seaworthiness, safety, security, navigation, and regulatory compliance. The Captain is accountable for the safety of all passengers, crew members, and property onboard while underway.

This position requires the Captain to provide live narration throughout the duration of tours, offering engaging historical, geographical, and cultural information about the surrounding area. The Captain also provides professional customer service by greeting guests, addressing customer needs and requests, and ensuring a positive experience throughout the charter or tour. Strong vessel piloting skills and collaboration with staff, supervisors, and management are essential to ensure all equipment and operational needs are met in a timely and effective manner.

Operations occur on the waters of Lake Powell within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES

  • Safely operate and navigate tour and charter vessels while ensuring compliance with all applicable maritime safety regulations.
  • Provide narration throughout the duration of tours, educating guests on historical, geographical, and cultural aspects of the surrounding area.
  • Maintain proficiency in vessel piloting and navigation skills.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew at all times while the vessel is underway.
  • Conduct pre-departure safety checks and ensure all required safety equipment is onboard, functional, and regularly inspected.
  • Maintain and communicate a thorough knowledge of all charter operations, policies, and procedures.
  • Assist supervisors and management with daily operational tasks related to tours and charters.
  • Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe vessel and work environment.
  • Work cooperatively with other departments to support overall marina operations.
  • Provide excellent customer service and maintain a professional and courteous attitude with guests and coworkers.
  • Promptly report hazards, safety concerns, equipment issues, or operational problems to management.
  • Ensure proper care, maintenance, and routine inspection of onboard equipment and safety gear.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable maritime regulations and safety requirements established by the United States Coast Guard and operational requirements within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area managed by the National Park Service.
  • Possess the ability to react positively to other duties assigned.

Authority of the Captain

  • The Captain has full authority and discretion over the safe operation of the vessel at all times.
  • The Captain may refuse to carry passengers, operate in unsafe conditions, or require passengers to follow safety instructions to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
  • The Captain’s decisions regarding navigation, passenger safety, and onboard behavior are final and must be respected by all crew and passengers.
  • Any incidents, unsafe conditions, or violations observed during operation must be immediately reported to marina management.

USCG Compliance and Safety

  • All captains must maintain valid U.S. Coast Guard licensing (100 Ton or greater) and comply with USCG regulations at all times.
  • The Captain is subject to mandatory drug and alcohol testing in accordance with USCG regulations, including pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing.
  • Captains must adhere to all federal, state, and local maritime safety laws, including regulations regarding vessel operation, passenger limits, and safety equipment.
  • All vessel safety inspections, reporting, and recordkeeping must comply with USCG standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Master License (50 Ton or greater) issued by the United States Coast Guard.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain.
  • Previous experience operating passenger vessels, charter vessels, or large recreational boats.
  • Strong knowledge of boating safety practices and navigation rules.
  • Excellent communication, public speaking, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to maintain professionalism while interacting with guests, staff, and management.
  • Previous experience operating vessels on Lake Powell (preferred).
  • Experience providing guided tours, live narration, or educational commentary for guest (preferred).

EDUCATION
High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred but not required.


EXPERIENCE

  • Proven experience operating inland waters vessels or houseboats on lakes, rivers or similar waterways.
  • Experience piloting vessels for customers or guests, including docking, mooring, and maneuvering in variable water conditions.
  • Proficiency with marine navigation systems, communication equipment, and signaling methods.
  • Familiarity with safety equipment inspections, emergency procedures, and onboard safety management.
  • Knowledge of handling vessels under varying weather, water, and traffic conditions.
  • Ability to plan and follow safe routes uplake and back to the marina, including monitoring weather, water levels, and hazards.


GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of APM marina services and amenities.
• Skills which allow for the tactful resolution of guest problems or concerns.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in fire extinguisher operation.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in ISO/EMS awareness.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in employee orientation.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in hazard communication.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in hazardous materials response/respiratory protection.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in emergency response.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in recyclable materials.
• Knowledge or ability to be trained in blood borne pathogen awareness

IS THIS POSITION CLOSELY, MODERATELY, OR MINIMALLY SUPERVISED? Moderately.

DOES THIS POSITION HAVE SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO HIRING, FIRING, PERFORMANCE APPRAISALS, PERSONNEL CHANGES? No.

DOES THIS POSITION HAVE ACCESS TO COMPANY OR CUSTOMER CONFIDENTIAL OR PROPRIETARY INFORMATION INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CUSTOMER LISTS, PAYROLL, HUMAN RESOURCE OR LEGAL INFORMATION? No.

DOES THE POSITION HAVE ACCESS TO OR HANDLE COMPANY OR CUSTOMER FUNDS INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CREDIT CARD INFORMATION, CHECKS, CASH? No.

WORKING CONDITIONS
The performance of stated functions and duties may occur in, but are not limited to: office settings, confined spaces such as boat hulls, public or common areas such as restaurant or retail establishment; inclement weather conditions may be a factor including rain, snow, wind, extreme temperatures. General industry levels of noise and stimuli should be expected in all settings.
*Controllable working conditions (i.e. temperature, lighting) may be altered to create a more conducive working environment for staffing needs, however such accommodations shall not create an undue hardship on the Company or other staff members.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands of the position may include, but are not limited to sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Lifting, carrying and otherwise maneuvering heavy objects with or without assistance. Climbing, crouching, reaching, extending and other bodily movements in work areas such as boats, office settings, docks.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
It is important that the incumbent be able to communicate effectively in English including speaking, understanding, reading, and writing for the purpose of general interactions with staff, guests and customers. Additional linguistic proficiency is welcomed and encouraged, but not required for the performance of the position.

INTENT AND FUNCTION OF JOB DESCRIPTION

The purpose of the job description is to provide the general tasks and standards of the position. The job description is composed with the intention that only essential functions are included; peripheral tasks only incidentally related or otherwise assigned to the position have been excluded.

The job description does not create an employment contract. APM maintains its status as an at-will employer. APM or the employee may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice