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Ferry Captain Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

City Cruises

Captain Exempt

Washington, DC · On-site

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... The captain directs the crew on a day-to-day basis and must meet and maintain the minimum ...

City-Experience

Captain Exempt

Washington, DC · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... The captain directs the crew on a day-to-day basis and must meet and maintain the minimum ...

AEG

Food & Beverage Server (Part-Time)

Potomac, MD · On-site

The Club has hosted over 20 championships for the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions and the Korn Ferry ... Ensure that the Director of Food and Beverage/ Dining Room Manager or captain is informed of ...

AEG

Food & Beverage Server (Full-Time)

Potomac, MD · On-site

The Club has hosted over 20 championships for the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions and the Korn Ferry ... Ensure that the Director of Food and Beverage/ Dining Room Manager or captain is informed of ...

AEG

Food & Beverage Server( Part Time)

Potomac, MD · On-site

The Club has hosted over 20 championships for the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions and the Korn Ferry ... Ensure that the Director of Food and Beverage/ Dining Room Manager or captain is informed of ...

All JobsFerry Captain JobsFerry Captain Jobs in Washington

Ferry Captain information

See Washington salary details

$10

$42

$86

How much do ferry captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry captain in Washington is $42.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $46.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

How do I become a ferry captain?

To become a ferry captain, you typically need to obtain a merchant mariner credential with a master license, which requires sea service experience, passing written exams, and completing safety training. Candidates often start as deckhands or mates, gaining experience on vessels, and must meet age and health requirements. Certification standards vary by region but generally include a combination of sea time, training, and licensing from maritime authorities.

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. Certification standards vary by region but generally include demonstrating navigation, safety, and vessel operation skills.

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Ferry Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Captain job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,918 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Ferry Boat Captain - The Wharf

The Wharf

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Do you enjoy being on the water and providing great customer service? If so, this position is for you!

We are looking for a Ferry Boat Captain(s) for our location at The Wharf in Washington, DC for a 12 passenger vessel. If you have the experience and the certifications we want to talk to you!

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 compliance with laws and regulations. The Captain administers training and drills aboard the vessel, and this position ensures a high level of customer service is provided.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Safe operation, cleaning, and general up keep of a Duffy Electric 22ft, 12 passenger vessel.

  • Safe vessel tie up to docks, piers, ships and moorings;

  • Positive communication with client crew;

  • Passenger embarkation/debarkation safety and operation;

  • Repair and modification of related equipment such as pumps, lines, hoses;

  • Grease, lube, and maintenance of the marine systems;

  • Maintain accurate logs and records;

  • Interacts with customers and management in a professional manner;

  • Dock hand work as well as supporting non-motorized waterfront operations.

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