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Ferry Captain Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Guestservices

Boat Captain

Panama City, FL

The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This position serves as the primary contact onboard the vessel with the USCG concerning compliance with laws ...

Guestservices

The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This position serves as the primary contact onboard the vessel with the USCG concerning compliance with laws ...

Guestservices

Boat Captain

Orange City, FL

Job Summary: The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This position serves as the primary contact onboard the vessel with the USCG concerning ...

Guest Services, Inc.

Boat Captain

Panama City, FL · On-site

The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This position serves as the primary contact onboard the vessel with the USCG concerning compliance with laws ...

Guest Services, Inc.

Boat Captain

Orange City, FL · On-site

Job Summary: The Captain directs the ferry's activities and operates the vessel safely and efficiently. This position serves as the primary contact onboard the vessel with the USCG concerning ...

Red Hospitality

Senior Marine Technician

Key West, FL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Diagnose and repair inboard diesel engines across catamaran, ferry, and center console hull types ... USCG Captain's License (OUPV or higher) a strong plus but not required * Prior experience working ...

All JobsFerry Captain JobsFerry Captain Jobs in Florida

Ferry Captain information

See Florida salary details

$6

$27

$57

How much do ferry captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ferry captain?

To thrive as a Ferry Captain, you need comprehensive maritime navigation skills, vessel handling experience, and typically a valid captain’s license such as a USCG Master or Mate License. Familiarity with radar, GPS, electronic chart systems, and maritime communication devices is essential, along with knowledge of safety protocols and regulatory compliance. Leadership, clear communication, and strong decision-making skills are vital for managing crews and ensuring passenger safety under varying conditions. These capabilities are critical for safely transporting passengers and vehicles while maintaining efficient operations and compliance with maritime regulations.

How do I become a ferry captain?

To become a ferry captain, you typically need to obtain a Merchant Marine license with a captain's endorsement, which requires completing maritime training, gaining relevant sea service experience, and passing written and practical exams. Additionally, a valid medical certificate and good navigation skills are essential for operating vessels safely in various conditions.

How much money do ferry captains make?

Ferry captains typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the vessel. They are responsible for navigating and operating ferries, often requiring a Coast Guard license and safety certifications.

What are the typical work schedules and team structures for ferry captains?

Ferry Captains often work in shifts that may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the ferry route and company schedule. They typically lead a team that includes deckhands, engineers, and customer service staff, ensuring smooth vessel operations and passenger experience. Coordination with shore-side personnel, port authorities, and emergency services is also a regular part of the job. This collaborative environment requires strong leadership and adaptability to handle changing schedules and unexpected challenges on the water.

What is a ferry captain?

A Ferry Captain is responsible for operating and navigating a ferry to transport passengers, vehicles, or cargo across bodies of water safely. They manage the vessel's crew, oversee maintenance, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations. Their duties also include monitoring weather conditions, plotting secure routes, and responding to emergencies. Strong leadership, navigational expertise, and safety awareness are essential for this role.

How do you become a ferry captain?

To become a ferry captain, you typically need to obtain a merchant mariner credential with a master license, which requires relevant sea service experience, passing written exams, and completing approved training. Candidates often start as deckhands or mates, gaining experience on vessels, and must meet age, health, and background check requirements. Continuous education and safety training are also essential for career advancement.
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Ferry Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Captain job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,009 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Captain -St. John's River Ferry

Land and Sea

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Get Ready to Go Beyond with Land & Sea
Grounded in our core values-integrity, a strong work ethic, and meaningful relationships-Land & Sea operates internationally across 11+ locations with 8 trusted partners, focusing on three key segments: Marine, Destinations, and Advisory.
We excel in delivering through contract services, driving value for clients and partners, and setting new industry standards-with a proven team dedicated to execution.
About the role
The Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, ensuring compliance with all maritime laws and regulations. This role includes navigating the vessel, supervising onboard crew, maintaining safety standards, delivering exceptional customer service, and ensuring operational readiness. The Captain also serves as the primary point of contact with the USCG for compliance matters and supports other St. John's River Ferry employees in areas of expertise, contributing to overall operational success.
What you'll do
  • Safe Navigation & Operational Oversight
  • Command and navigate the vessel safely, adhering to all maritime regulations and company policies.
  • Ensure compliance with navigation protocols to guarantee the safety of passengers, crew, and vessels.
  • Operate the vessel at economic engine speeds as per established policies.
  • Oversee the transfer and pumping of sewage and water, ensuring compliance with environmental and operational standards.
  • Monitor river conditions, vessel operations, and passenger safety during ferry operations.
  • Crew Leadership & Management
  • Lead and supervise the crew, ensuring all members are trained, certified, and compliant with safety protocols.
  • Foster a positive work environment, promoting teamwork, professional growth, and a culture of safety.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, providing mentorship, coaching, and training as needed.
  • Ensure crew members are properly uniformed, demonstrate professionalism, and maintain technical competence.
  • Vessel Maintenance & Readiness
  • Oversee and coordinate maintenance and repairs to ensure the vessel's seaworthiness and optimal condition.
  • Ensure maintenance activities are performed unobtrusively while guests are onboard.
  • Promptly address mechanical or operational issues to minimize downtime.
  • Regulatory Compliance & Safety Assurance
  • Ensure full compliance with local, state, national, and international maritime laws, including environmental regulations.
  • Maintain readiness for all USCG and other regulatory inspections, striving for zero deficiencies.
  • Ensure all safety equipment is available and functional, with personnel equipped with appropriate PPE.
  • Verify proper labeling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in line with MSDS requirements.
  • Emergency Preparedness & Response
  • Develop and implement emergency response plans, ensuring crew preparedness for all scenarios.
  • Conduct regular emergency drills and safety training sessions to maintain readiness.
  • Coordinate emergency responses and ensure all personnel are aware of their station bill assignments.
  • Client & Public Relations
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and partners onboard, ensuring a high level of service and satisfaction.
  • Represent the company professionally in all interactions with the public, community groups, and regulatory agencies.
  • Provide information about ferry operations to the public, Coast Guard, and other relevant agencies.
  • Record Keeping & Documentation
  • Maintain accurate and comprehensive records, including Vessel Operations Logs, Maintenance Logs, and Personnel Reports.
  • Ensure compliance with USCG regulations for logs, including the official log, radio log, safety inspections, and training records.
  • Generate USCG 2692 forms, incident reports, and Situation Reports (SitReps) as required.
  • Safety Leadership & Culture
  • Ensure a physically safe and environmentally sound working environment by providing the necessary tools, training, and materials.
  • Advocate for and actively participate in the company's safety culture, addressing safety concerns or incidents promptly.
  • Ensure compliance with the Safety Management System (SMS) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Operational Administration
  • Manage toll collection and reporting activities, including end-of-shift deposits.
  • Ensure accuracy in passenger and vehicular counts.
  • Review the Vessel Operations Guide and Pass Down Log to ensure operational continuity.
  • Secure the vessel and set alarms before leaving at the end of the evening shift.
  • Ensure cleanliness and organization of all workspaces, including restrooms, common areas, the pilot house, and gangways, especially at shift start and end.
  • Perform other tasks as assigned by management to support vessel operations.
  • Participate in meetings, training sessions, and safety audits as required by company policy.
  • Primarily in a marine environment with outdoor conditions, exposure to varying temperatures, weather, and moderate to loud noise levels.
  • Marine operations are subject to varied wake and motion.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid U.S.C.G. Master's License for motor vessels of 500 gross tons or higher
  • Valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) or ability to obtain and maintain.
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Experience in vessel navigation and operational oversight.
  • Proven leadership and supervisory experience with the ability to train and develop employees.
  • Exceptional customer service and communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal abilities.
  • Must pass USCG-mandated alcohol and drug tests, including pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and post-incident testing.

Land & Sea is committed to providing equal opportunity in all employment practices, including, but not limited to, selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation, to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, marital status, domestic partnership status, disability, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding status, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, service member status, citizenship status, arrest or conviction records, political affiliation, status as a victim of domestic violence, assault, or stalking, family care or medical leave status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

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