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Ferry Mate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dewees Island

Ferry Deckhand

SC · On-site

Ferry Mate (Deckhand) - Part-Time Location: Dewees Island, South Carolina Dewees Island is a private, conservation-focused barrier island accessible only by boat. The ferry is our community ...

Dewees Island

Ferry Deckhand

Dewees Island, SC · On-site

Ferry Mate (Deckhand) Part-Time Location: Dewees Island, South Carolina Dewees Island is a private, conservation-focused barrier island accessible only by boat. The ferry is our communitys lifeline ...

Hornblower

First Mate- City Cruises New York

New York, NY · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... The First Mate assists the Captain to safely moor, operate, and maintain company vessels. The First ...

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Ferry Mate information

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How much do ferry mate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry mate in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ferry mate?

To thrive as a Ferry Mate, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, navigation, and vessel safety protocols, often supported by relevant maritime certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and STCW endorsements. Familiarity with onboard communication systems, navigation equipment, and safety management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, teamwork, and effective communication skills are essential for coordinating crew and ensuring passenger safety. These competencies are crucial for maintaining smooth vessel operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and safeguarding all aboard.

What is a ferry mate?

Ferry mates are licensed maritime professionals who assist the captain in operating and navigating a ferry. They are responsible for the safety of passengers and crew, overseeing loading and unloading, conducting safety drills, and handling emergency situations. Ferry mates may also help with navigation, maintain logs, and supervise deckhands. They play a key role in ensuring that ferry operations run smoothly and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by a ferry mate during busy travel seasons?

During peak travel seasons, Ferry Mates often encounter challenges such as managing high passenger volumes, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and coordinating with crew members to maintain timely departures and arrivals. Effective communication and quick problem-solving are essential, particularly when handling emergency situations or assisting passengers with special needs. Maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure and adapting to rapidly changing conditions are important aspects of succeeding in this role.

What is the difference between Ferry Mate vs Deckhand?

AspectFerry MateDeckhand
Required CertificationsSTCW certification, CPR, first aidSTCW certification, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentPassenger ferries, marine terminalsCommercial ships, cargo vessels
Employer & Industry UsageFerry operators, transportation industryShipping companies, maritime industry

Ferry Mates primarily operate passenger ferries, focusing on passenger safety and vessel operation, often requiring specific certifications like STCW. Deckhands work across various vessels, including cargo ships, with similar safety certifications but may have broader responsibilities. While both roles are essential in maritime operations, Ferry Mates are specialized in passenger ferry services, whereas Deckhands support a wider range of maritime vessels.

More about Ferry Mate jobs
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What states have the most Ferry Mate jobs? States with the most job openings for Ferry Mate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ferry Mate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ferry Mate jobs are:
Ferry Mate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Mate 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 $53,628 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Ferry Deckhand

Dewees Island

SC • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Ferry Mate (Deckhand) - Part-Time
Location: Dewees Island, South Carolina
Dewees Island is a private, conservation-focused barrier island accessible only by boat. The ferry is our community's lifeline, and we are seeking a reliable, customer-oriented Mate to support daily operations and ensure safe, smooth trips for residents, guests, and staff.
Job Summary
Assist the Captain with the safe operation of the ferry, ensuring passenger safety, helping with loading and unloading luggage, and maintaining the vessel's cleanliness and presentability. This is an outdoor, hands-on position that requires physical stamina, good communication, and strong situational awareness.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Assist the Captain with docking, line handling, and general ferry operations
  • Monitor passengers during crossings, especially young children
  • Help passengers load and unload luggage and cargo
  • Maintain order and cleanliness aboard the vessel
  • Log passengers using the Ferry Access System and ensure only authorized riders board
  • Act as lookout during departures, landings, and busy waterways
  • Manage mail, packages, and newspaper deliveries for residents
  • Uphold customer service standards and act as a welcoming presence

Work Environment
  • Requires daily ferry rides
  • Must work outdoors in hot, humid, wet, and changing conditions
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Schedule
  • Morning Shift: 5:45 AM - 1:45 PM (6:45 AM start on weekends)
  • Evening Shift: 1:45 PM - 11:00 PM (may extend to midnight or 1:00 AM Friday and Saturday)
  • Weekend and holiday availability is required.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Some knowledge of boating safety and Coast Guard regulations is preferred
  • Ability to swim and assist in emergency response
  • Friendly, professional, and able to work independently or as part of a team
  • Prior ferry or marine experience is a plus, but not required

Why Join Us?
Spend your days surrounded by salt air and marsh views, working with a small team that takes pride in connecting people to a truly unique place. Every ride is a chance to make someone's day better and be part of a community that values nature, responsibility, and great service.
Dewees Island POA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions, unless such accommodations would compromise the safety of vessel operations.

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