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Cruise Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Daily 5-hour cruises. Flexible schedule. Home every night. Will assist relocation of eligible candidate. * Boat captains are responsible for checking the vessel before it leaves port to ensure it is ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...

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Cruise Captain information

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How much do cruise captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cruise captain in the United States is $37.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cruise captain do?

A Cruise Captain is responsible for commanding and overseeing the safe operation of a cruise ship. They navigate the vessel, ensure compliance with maritime laws, and manage the crew to provide a safe and pleasant experience for passengers. The Cruise Captain also coordinates with departments on board, handles emergencies, and represents the cruise line to guests and port authorities. Their leadership and expertise are crucial for the smooth running of all ship operations.

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

To thrive as a Cruise Captain, you need advanced maritime navigation skills, a valid master mariner's license, and extensive experience at sea. Proficiency with modern navigation systems, safety management systems, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, efficient vessel operation, and positive guest experiences on board.

What are some common challenges faced by cruise captains, and how can they be managed effectively?

Cruise Captains often face challenges such as navigating changing weather conditions, maintaining passenger safety, and managing a diverse crew. Effective communication and strong leadership skills are essential for coordinating with officers, engineers, and hospitality staff to ensure smooth operations. Captains must also stay updated with maritime regulations and be prepared to make quick decisions in emergencies. Proactive planning and regular training help manage these complexities and contribute to a safe, enjoyable voyage for all onboard.

What is the difference between Cruise Captain vs Marine Pilot?

AspectCruise CaptainMarine Pilot
CertificationsCaptain's license, STCW certificationMarine pilot license, STCW certification
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, overseeing passenger safetyOnshore or onboard ships, guiding vessels through ports
Industry UsagePassenger cruise industryCommercial shipping, port navigation

Both Cruise Captains and Marine Pilots require similar certifications and work in maritime environments. However, Cruise Captains primarily oversee entire cruise ships and passenger safety onboard, while Marine Pilots specialize in navigating ships through ports and confined waters. Their roles complement each other within the maritime industry, with each focusing on different aspects of vessel operation and safety.

Are cruise ship captains in demand?

Cruise ship captains are in steady demand due to the ongoing growth of the cruise industry and the need for experienced maritime professionals. They typically require extensive maritime training, certifications, and leadership skills, and employment opportunities are influenced by industry health and travel trends.

How much do cruise captains get paid?

Cruise captains typically earn between $80,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, the size of the vessel, and the cruise line. Salaries often include benefits such as housing, travel allowances, and bonuses, and require certifications like a Master Mariner license. The position involves long hours and a high level of responsibility for passenger safety and vessel operation.

How to get a job as a cruise captain?

To become a cruise captain, candidates typically need extensive maritime experience, often starting as a deck officer and progressing through certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping). A valid master mariner license is required, along with strong leadership skills and knowledge of navigation, safety procedures, and ship operations. Gaining experience on large vessels and completing specialized training programs are essential steps in qualifying for a cruise captain position.
More about Cruise Captain jobs

What cities are hiring for Cruise Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Cruise Captain job openings:

What states have the most Cruise Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cruise Captain jobs include:

Infographic showing various Cruise Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,625 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Relief/Casual Captain - Alcatraz Cruises

Hornblower Corp

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Hornblower rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 9 rated cruise lines


Job description

Relief/Casual Captain - Alcatraz Cruises

Alcatraz Cruises CA, Pier 33, Alcatraz Landing, San Francisco, California, United States of America

Position Summary

The Captain operates a United States Coast Guard (USCG) inspected small passenger vessel under contract with the National Park Service between the San Francisco Waterfront, Alcatraz Island, and on adjacent routes in a manner that ensures the safety and security of the crew, enjoyment of passengers, and respect for the environment. A Captain is a vessel manager who leads, manages, supervises, and trains crew including First Officers, Deckhands and Captains. Captains plan and lead training and drills aboard vessels for emergency preparedness.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Serve as master in navigational command. Operate the vessel with due regard for proper watch standing and wheelhouse resource management standards, in accordance with the practice of good seamanship.
  • Have ultimate responsibility for the safe operation of the vessel and the safety of all crew and passengers.
  • Directly manage, supervise, and train first officers, deckhands, and other crewmembers in marine transportation safety, security and training.
  • Train Captains in company culture, best practices and standard operating procedures.
  • Participate in Marine Operations applicant interviews.
  • Have authority for maintaining good order, discipline, and accountability of assigned crew members by providing supervision and direction to crew and ensuring that crew members under Captain’s supervision follow Company policies, rules, and regulations.
  • Take appropriate and swift disciplinary action of crew where necessary.
  • Monitor crew time and attendance for punctuality.
  • Review and approve crew timesheets; promote compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws.
  • Recommend and inform decisions to hire, terminate, or promote crew members.
  • Conduct regular crew performance reviews and assessments; provide feedback in a timely fashion to optimize crew performance. Mentor and lead the crew.
  • Regularly inspect all areas of the vessel for unsafe conditions, perform accident investigations, and make safety announcements to ensure the safety and comfort of the crew and passengers.
  • Regularly plan and lead watch, quarter, and station bill emergency drills per USCG regulations. Plan and lead safety meetings per Alcatraz Cruises policy to ensure efficient and safe vessel operations and the proper use of equipment during any possible onboard emergency.
  • Maintain vessel operations and maintenance logs, personnel reports, and other required ship’s business records.
  • Oversee transferring of pumping sewage and water.
  • Supervise crewmembers to ensure the maintenance of a clean workplace (i.e., rest rooms, trash, common areas, pilot house, and gangways).
  • Comply with all USCG regulations.
  • Exercise strong practical working knowledge of the Navigational Rules of the Road.
  • Comply with all National Park Service directives and Alcatraz Cruises policies, to ensure passengers, guests, and visitors to the Golden Gate National Recreational Area have a quality interpretive experience.
  • Implement vessel safety and security plans to ensure compliance with USCG Office of Homeland Security Rules and Regulations.
  • Lead by personal example of uniform appearance and grooming.
  • Set a high standard of personal and professional conduct for subordinates to emulate.
  • Ensure subordinates offer exceptional customer service and follow environmental practices (Respect Our Planet).
  • Through personal instruction and practice, set a positive example as a team leader for crew members, to the fulfillment of Alcatraz Cruises’ policies, and the enjoyment of visitors to the Golden Gate National Recreational Area.
  • Comply with and enforce established policies and procedures.
  • Maintain current licenses and certifications.
  • Ensure regular work attendance by crew members, in conformance with Alcatraz Cruises standards. Hold crew members accountable. Communicate that irregular attendance will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
  • Ensure, upon employment, that all crewmembers fully comply with Alcatraz Cruises rules and regulations. Hold employees who violate Alcatraz Cruises rules and regulations accountable, up to and including termination of employment.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Requirements & Qualifications
  • U.S. Coast Guard Inland Masters (100 ton) or equivalent.
  • Possess and maintain a current California driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
  • Two (2) years of boat handling.
  • Customer service experience is helpful.
  • Knowledge of foreign language is helpful.
  • Open schedule and ability to work any assigned schedule, including holidays and weekends.
  • Ability to work a shift that may start as early as 4:30 am or end as late as 10:45 pm. Shifts are 8 hours.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission, vision, values and operating principles. By creating a company culture that puts RESPECT at its core, we believe it will drive us to achieve our goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader.

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibit discrimination and/or harassment of any type, including but not limited to discrimination and or harassment based upon race, religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy or relation medical conditions, childbirth, breastfeeding, parental status, veteran and/or military status, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, political affiliation, domestic violence survivor status, marital status, or other characteristics prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals, where and as they apply. The company also participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

Alcatraz Cruises CA, Pier 33, Alcatraz Landing, San Francisco, California, United States of America

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