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Full Time Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Tampa, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bucksport, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Port Canaveral, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Moundsville, WV

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Moundsville, WV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Rockland, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Point Pleasant, WV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Morehead City, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Providence, RI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Myers Beach, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Portland, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Morehead City, NC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Brunswick, GA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

New London, CT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Charleston, SC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

New London, CT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This is a full-time, exempt position. Qualifications: * U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater. * Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). * Captain ...

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Full Time Boat Captain information

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$5

$25

$48

How much do full time boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time boat captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main responsibilities of a full-time boat captain?

A full-time boat captain is responsible for safely navigating and operating a vessel, whether it's for commercial, private, or charter purposes. Their duties include planning routes, monitoring weather conditions, managing the crew, ensuring all safety regulations are followed, and maintaining the vessel's equipment. Captains also oversee passenger safety, handle emergencies, and ensure compliance with maritime laws. Additionally, they may be involved in routine maintenance checks and communicating with port authorities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time boat captain?

To thrive as a Full Time Boat Captain, you need expert knowledge of seamanship, navigation, maritime regulations, and typically hold a valid captain’s license such as a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radar, communication equipment, and routine vessel maintenance tools is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills set outstanding captains apart. These competencies are vital for ensuring passenger safety, efficient operations, and compliance with maritime laws.

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

Full-time boat captains often encounter challenges such as changing weather conditions, mechanical issues, and coordinating with crew or passengers. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and thorough knowledge of safety protocols. Many captains develop contingency plans and maintain regular maintenance schedules to minimize risks, and ongoing training helps them stay updated on the latest regulations and best practices. Building a reliable, communicative crew also plays a critical role in smoothly handling unexpected situations.

What is the difference between Full Time Boat Captain vs Part Time Boat Captain?

AspectFull Time Boat CaptainPart Time Boat Captain
CertificationsRequired (e.g., USCG license)Required or optional depending on hours
Work EnvironmentFull-time employment on boats or yachtsOccasional or seasonal trips
Employer & Industry UsageMarinas, yacht companies, private ownersCharter services, private owners
Work HoursTypically 40+ hours/weekVariable, often part-time or seasonal

Full Time Boat Captains are employed on a full-time basis, often with benefits, and work regular hours managing boats or yachts. Part Time Boat Captains work on a flexible schedule, usually for specific trips or seasons. Both roles require similar certifications, but the commitment level and work hours differ significantly.

More about Full Time Boat Captain jobs

What cities are hiring for Full Time Boat Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time Boat Captain job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Boat Captain jobs?

The most popular types of Boat Captain jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Boat Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Boat Captain jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Boat Captain jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Boat Captain jobs are:

Full Time Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Boat Captain 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 $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Captain

American Cruise Lines

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Captain
American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American Cruise Lines cruise along inland and coastal waterways, including the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe navigation and exceptional service.
Captains are responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader. American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.
Captains enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America's Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
  • Oversee Shipboard Engineer.
  • Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers.
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
  • Provide visible leadership through announcements, rounds, and guest interaction.

Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Captain experience on coastal and river waterways: min 2yrs, desired 5yrs with Z-drive experience.
  • Excellent communication skills and team-building skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Great Lakes Captain: Route familiarization and recency in all or several areas including: St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Mary's River, and U.S. port routes in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20" diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.

Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.
*Job sites across the nation.
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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