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Charter Captain Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Captain 135 ft M/Y

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$14K - $16K/mo

Captain--135 ft M/Y Captain 135' Motor Yacht (Private/Charter) Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL Cruising Area: Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean, and potentially the Northeast U.S. Flag: Foreign Flag (change ...

Captain 135 ft M/Y

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$14K - $16K/mo

Captain--135 ft M/Y Captain 135' Motor Yacht (Private/Charter) Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL Cruising Area: Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean, and potentially the Northeast U.S. Flag: Foreign Flag (change ...

Want to join one of the fastest-growing charter airline companies in the industry? We specialize in ... Captains at Global Crossing Airlines (GlobalX) are responsible for the safety and timely operations ...

$330K - $350K/yr

... charter client) are communicated to Charter Department and Chief Pilot's office. Assist in ... CLA Lead Captains should have the minimum experience required to safely operate the assigned ...

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Charter Captain information

See Florida salary details

$6

$27

$57

How much do charter captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for charter captain in Florida is $27.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $30.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a charter captain?

A Charter Captain is a licensed professional who operates boats or ships for private hire, typically offering fishing, sightseeing, or leisure trips for clients. They are responsible for the safety of passengers, navigation, and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations. Charter Captains often provide expert local knowledge, manage crew members, and maintain the vessel. Their role requires extensive boating experience, relevant certifications, and strong customer service skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a charter captain?

To thrive as a Charter Captain, you need strong seamanship, navigation skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and typically a commercial captain’s license (such as a USCG Master license). Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and safety equipment is essential for daily operations. Exceptional customer service, leadership, and problem-solving skills help create enjoyable and safe experiences for passengers. These skills are crucial to ensure passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and high client satisfaction on every voyage.

What are some common challenges charter captains face when managing both vessel operations and guest experiences?

Charter Captains often balance the dual responsibilities of ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the vessel while also providing an enjoyable and memorable experience for guests. This can involve managing unexpected changes in weather, addressing mechanical issues on short notice, and adapting itineraries to meet client preferences—all while maintaining excellent customer service. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to remain calm under pressure. Additionally, Charter Captains must stay up-to-date with maritime regulations and safety protocols to ensure compliance at all times.

What is the difference between Charter Captain vs Commercial Boat Captain?

AspectCharter CaptainCommercial Boat Captain
Required CertificationsUSCG Captain's License, CPR, First AidUSCG Captain's License, STCW, First Aid
Work EnvironmentPrivate charters, recreational vessels, tourismCommercial vessels, cargo, passenger transport
Employer & Industry UsageCharter companies, private ownersShipping companies, freight, passenger services

Charter Captains primarily operate recreational vessels for private clients and tourists, focusing on leisure and tourism. Commercial Boat Captains work in the commercial shipping industry, handling cargo or passenger vessels for business purposes. While both roles require similar certifications, their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Charter Captain jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Charter Captain job openings:

Infographic showing various Charter Captain job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,009 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Captain 135 ft M/Y

3S Recruitment Ltd

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$14K - $16K/mo

Full-time

Medical

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Captain--135 ft M/Y

Captain 135' Motor Yacht (Private/Charter)

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Cruising Area: Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean, and potentially the Northeast U.S.

Flag: Foreign Flag (change anticipated)

Start Date: Flexible, ideally within 24 weeks

Compensation: $14,000 to $16,000/month DOE, health insurance, performance bonuses possible, Captain's cabin with queen bed

About the Program: Newly acquired 135' Motor Yacht seeking an experienced Captain to help launch and build a new private/charter program. The vessel is currently undergoing a full interior refit. The owner plans to run approximately 1012 charters per year. He is looking to build a strong, professional crew team from the ground up.

This is a great opportunity for a Captain who enjoys establishing a program from scratch, setting high operational standards, and delivering a first-class experience to both the owner and charter guests.

Responsibilities:

  • Full command and safe operation of the vessel
  • Lead and manage crew, fostering a positive onboard culture
  • Oversee maintenance, safety, and operational readiness to private and charter standards
  • Coordinate with yacht management, shipyards, vendors, and contractors
  • Support the ownership transition, program setup, and flag change process
  • Manage documentation, budgets, inventories, and compliance
  • Deliver a high level of professionalism and service to guests

Qualifications:

  • 500 GT Master license required
  • Command experience on 120'+ motor yachts
  • Charter program experience strongly preferred
  • Experience with first-time owners and ownership/flag transitions a plus
  • Strong maintenance knowledge, proven crew management, and excellent communication skills

Must be able to legally work in the US or have B1/B2 visa