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Ferry Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

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 operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

Hornblower

Captain - Statue Cruises

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$56.92/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

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Ferry Operator information

See New York salary details

$13

$26

$38

How much do ferry operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry operator in New York is $26.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a ferry operator do?

A ferry operator is responsible for operating and navigating ferry boats that transport passengers, vehicles, and goods across bodies of water. Their duties include ensuring the safe embarkation and disembarkation of passengers, monitoring weather and water conditions, maintaining communication with port authorities, and performing routine checks on the vessel's equipment. Ferry operators must also enforce safety regulations, respond to emergencies, and provide customer service during the voyage. This role requires a strong understanding of maritime laws, navigation skills, and often specific licensing or certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ferry operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ferry Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime navigation, vessel operation, and safety procedures, often supported by a relevant maritime license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and emergency response equipment is typically required. Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring passenger safety, efficient ferry operations, and quick response to any emergencies on the water.

What are some typical challenges faced by ferry operators during daily operations?

Ferry operators often encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring timely departures despite fluctuating passenger and vehicle loads. They must also coordinate closely with crew members and port staff to manage boarding, disembarkation, and any unexpected situations, such as mechanical issues or emergency drills. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for handling these dynamic aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Ferry Operator vs Boat Captain?

AspectFerry OperatorBoat Captain
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license or ferry-specific certificationCaptain's license or maritime certification
Work EnvironmentFerry terminals, waterways, urban routesOpen water, various vessel types, maritime settings
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, ferry servicesPrivate boat companies, maritime industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Ferry Operators primarily work in urban transit environments operating ferries on scheduled routes, often under public transit agencies. Boat Captains may work on a variety of vessels in open waters, requiring maritime certifications. While both roles involve vessel operation, Ferry Operators focus on passenger transit in specific waterways, whereas Boat Captains may handle diverse vessels in different maritime settings.

What qualifications do I need to work as a ferry operator?

Ferry operators typically need a valid driver's license, a commercial driver's license (CDL) or equivalent certification, and a good driving record. They often require maritime safety training, knowledge of vessel operation, and the ability to work in various weather conditions and shifts.

What cities in New York are hiring for Ferry Operator jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Ferry Operator job openings:

Ferry Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,652 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Captain - Liberty Landing Ferry

Jersey City, NJ • On-site

Hornblower
Travel Arrangement Services • 10K+ employees

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

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Learn more about Hornblowerexternal

$41.05/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Hornblower Group is a global leader in experience and transportation. Spanning a 100-year history, Hornblower Group's portfolio of international offerings includes water- and land-based experiences and ferry and transportation services. City Experiences, Hornblower Group's premier experience division, offers dining and sightseeing cruises and walking and food tours through the City Cruises, Walks, and Devour brands. City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 million passengers annually and operating services including NYC Ferry, Puerto Rico Ferry, and other regional ferry systemsHornblower Group's subsidiaries include Hornblower Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Seaward Services, Inc., a full-service shipping, waterfront logistics and management company that specializes in the operation and maintenance of government and commercial vessels. Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity, provides reservation, ticketing and website integration services for clients in the transportation, tourism and entertainment industries. Today, Hornblower Group's global portfolio covers over 10 countries, over 50 U.S. cities and serves more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower Group's additional corporate offices reside in San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; Dublin, Ireland; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit hornblowercorp.com.
Position Summary:
Operates United States Coast Guard Inspected Small Passenger Vessels between the New York and New Jersey Waterfront, on routes in a manner that
ensures the Safety and Security of the Crew, Enjoyment of the Passengers, and Respect for the Environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • As the Master in Navigational Command, operates the vessel with due regard for proper Standards of Watch Standing and Wheelhouse Resources Management in accordance with the practice of good seamanship.
  • Assign each crew member work appropriate for his classification.
  • Conducts Safety Meetings in conformance with Liberty Landing Ferry policy, to ensure a routinely efficient and safe operation of the vessel at all times and the proper use of equipment during any possible onboard emergency.
  • Counsel and Discipline crew members regarding performance issues.
  • Directly supervises Deckhands in all areas of Marine Transportation Safety, Security, and Training.
  • Discipline crew members who fail to adhere to Company policy or USCG regulations.
  • Maintains Vessel Operations and Maintenance Logs, Personnel Reports, and all other Ship's Business records.
  • Routinely conducts Watch Quarter Station Bill Emergency Drills in accordance with US Coast Guard regulations.
  • Routinely inspects all areas of the vessel for unsafe conditions, performs accident investigations, and makes safety announcements to ensure the safety and comfort of the crew and passengers.
  • Shall observe and evaluate the crew under their command.
  • Properly wears Liberty Landing Ferry Uniform at all times while in the presence of guests.
  • Oversees the cash handling aboard the vessel.
  • Follows all U S Coast Guard regulations and has a working knowledge of the Navigational Rules of the Road.
  • Assists guests and answers questions in regards to service & schedules.
  • Complies with and enforces established policies and procedures.
  • Ensures deck and engine room preventative maintenance.
  • Additional job duties as assigned.

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Inland Masters (50 ton /six (6) or more passengers) or equivalent, FCC Marine Radio Telephony,
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) Card.
  • Possess and maintain a current New York or New Jersey Driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
  • Two (2) years of boat handling experience preferred but not required.
  • Customer service experience is helpful.
  • Knowledge of foreign language is helpful.
  • The individual can perform abilities that demonstrate their competence in the practice of good seamanship, instills confidence in the crew, and ensures the safety of the passengers.

#LibertyLandingFerry
Hornblower will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with fair chance or other applicable laws and regulations.
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.

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