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Master Captain Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$166 - $277/hr

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 ...

SailFuture

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$7.5K/mo

USCG 100-Ton Master, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, or IYT Yachtmaster offshore * 5+ years as Captain / Master of a sailing vessel > 65' LOA * Strong knowledge of all yacht systems * Valid driver ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

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 ...

SailFuture

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$76 - $91/hr

USCG 100-Ton Master, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, or IYT Yachtmaster offshore * 5+ years as Captain / Master of a sailing vessel > 65' LOA * Strong knowledge of all yacht systems * Valid driver ...

SailFuture

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$7.5K/mo

USCG 100-Ton Master, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, or IYT Yachtmaster offshore * 5+ years as Captain / Master of a sailing vessel > 65' LOA * Strong knowledge of all yacht systems * Valid driver ...

SailFuture

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL

$7.5K/mo

USCG 100-Ton Master, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, or IYT Yachtmaster offshore * 5+ years as Captain / Master of a sailing vessel > 65' LOA * Strong knowledge of all yacht systems * Valid driver ...

3S Recruitment Ltd

Captain 135 ft M/Y

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$14K - $16K/mo

Captain--135 ft M/Y Captain -- 135' Motor Yacht (Private/Charter) Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL ... Deliver a high level of professionalism and service to guests Qualifications: * 500 GT Master ...

3S Recruitment Ltd

Captain 135 ft M/Y

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$14K - $16K/mo

Captain--135 ft M/Y Captain -- 135' Motor Yacht (Private/Charter) Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL ... Deliver a high level of professionalism and service to guests Qualifications: * 500 GT Master ...

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Panama City, FL · On-site

$122.54/hr

THey will work as both OS sometimes, and Captain Others. While working as OS the pay is $122.54/day ... as Master or Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch of Vessels of Less than 500 GT Limited to ...

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Panama City, FL · On-site

$511.92/day

They will work as both OS sometimes, and Captain others. While working as OS the pay is $122.54/day ... as Master or Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch of Vessels of Less than 500 GT Limited to ...

L&M Botruc Rental LLC

Be Seen First

Offshore Supply Vessel Captain

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$625 - $725/day

The Captain will be responsible for the safe navigation, vessel handling, and overall operation of ... Coast Guard Master's License appropriate for the vessel size and operating waters. Licenses may ...

Bowhead

Ordinary Seaman/Captain

Panama City, FL · On-site

$511.92/day

THey will work as both OS sometimes, and Captain Others. While working as OS the pay is $122.54/day ... as Master or Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch of Vessels of Less than 500 GT Limited to ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMaster Captain JobsMaster Captain Jobs in Florida

Master Captain information

See Florida salary details

$6

$27

$57

How much do master captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for master 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 is a master captain?

Master Captains, also known as Masters or Ship Masters, are licensed mariners who are legally responsible for the operation and safety of commercial vessels. They oversee all aspects of a ship's navigation, crew management, and compliance with maritime laws. Master Captains ensure safe passage, cargo handling, and proper maintenance of the vessel. They typically hold a Master’s license, such as the USCG Master 100 Ton License, which allows them to command vessels up to a certain size and type. Their expertise and leadership are critical for successful and safe maritime operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a master captain?

To thrive as a Master Captain, you need advanced maritime knowledge, navigation expertise, and a U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain's License with relevant sea-time experience. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, GPS, electronic chart display systems (ECDIS), and marine communication tools is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills help ensure safety and effective crew management. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safely operating vessels, complying with maritime regulations, and responding efficiently to emergencies at sea.

What challenges does a master captain face when managing a crew on long voyages?

Master Captains often encounter challenges such as maintaining crew morale, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, and managing fatigue during extended periods at sea. Effective communication and leadership are essential to address cultural differences, resolve conflicts, and keep the team focused on operational goals. Additionally, Master Captains must be adept at adapting to changing weather and maritime conditions, all while coordinating with shore-based management and regulatory authorities.

What is the difference between Master Captain vs Chief Mate?

CriteriaMaster CaptainChief Mate
Required CredentialsSTCW Master License, extensive maritime trainingSTCW Officer License, maritime training, and experience
Work EnvironmentOversees entire vessel operations, responsible for safety and navigationAssists the Master Captain, manages deck crew, and navigates
Employer & Industry UsageCommercial shipping, cruise lines, private yachtsCommercial ships, cruise ships, yachts

The Master Captain holds the highest authority onboard, responsible for the entire vessel and crew. The Chief Mate supports the Master Captain, focusing on deck operations and safety. Both roles require maritime certifications, but the Master Captain's credentials and responsibilities are more extensive, making it a higher-ranking position in the ship's hierarchy.

How long does it take to become a master captain?

Becoming a master captain typically requires several years of experience, usually around 3 to 5 years, along with obtaining necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license. Candidates must accumulate sea time, pass exams, and demonstrate leadership and navigation skills in a maritime environment.

How much do master captains make?

Master captains, also known as ship captains or vessel masters, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the type of vessel, experience, and certification level. Salaries can be higher for captains of large commercial ships or specialized vessels, and they often work long hours and are responsible for safety and navigation.

What are popular job titles related to Master Captain jobs in Florida?

For Master Captain jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Master Captain jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Master Captain jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Master Captain jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Master Captain job openings:

Master Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Captain job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,009 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Captain

American Cruise Lines

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Ensure the safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.

  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards, including executing maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring procedures.

  • Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers, oversee the shipboard engineer, and coordinate major engineering repairs.

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 amp; 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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