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Passenger Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

St Mary's County Government

Boat Captain

Leonardtown, MD · On-site

$33.01/hr

Mary's County passenger vessel; performs other duties as assigned. Essential Functions Operates vessel in accordance with all rules and safety requirements of the United States Coast Guard as they ...

Blue & Gold Fleet

Vessel Engineer - Vallejo

Vallejo, CA · On-site

Our engineering team maintains one of the largest and most diverse passenger ferry fleets on the ... The Vessel Engineer is responsible for maintaining the safe, reliable, and operational condition of ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Deckhand

Juneau, AK

The Deckhand will assist with the operation and maintenance of 150-passenger vessels including the application of emergency procedures and assisting as a member of the vessel crew with line handling ...

St. Mary's County, MD

Boat Captain

Leonardtown, MD · On-site

$33.01/hr

Mary's County passenger vessel; performs other duties as assigned. Essential Functions * Operates vessel in accordance with all rules and safety requirements of the United States Coast Guard as they ...

Guestservices

Boat Captain

Panama City, FL

Safe operation, cleaning, and general up keep of a passenger vessel. * Safe vessel tie up to docks, piers, ships and moorings; * Positive communication with client crew; * Passenger embarkation ...

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How much do passenger vessel jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for passenger vessel in the United States is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by crew members working on passenger vessels, and how can they be managed?

Crew members on passenger vessels often face challenges such as long hours, irregular schedules, and the need to provide excellent customer service to a diverse group of passengers. Additionally, adjusting to life at sea and working in close quarters with colleagues can require strong interpersonal and communication skills. These challenges can be managed by maintaining a positive attitude, practicing effective teamwork, and making use of available support resources offered by the employer, such as onboard training and wellness programs.

What is a passenger vessel?

Passenger vessels are ships or boats specifically designed to transport people, rather than cargo, across bodies of water. These vessels can vary in size and type, ranging from small ferries and riverboats to large ocean liners and cruise ships. They often feature a range of amenities for passengers, such as seating, dining, and entertainment. Passenger vessels must adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards to ensure the well-being of everyone on board.

What is the difference between Passenger Vessel vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectPassenger VesselMarine Deckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, CPR, First AidSTCW Basic Safety, CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentPassenger ships, cruise lines, ferriesCommercial ships, cargo vessels, passenger ships
Job RoleOperate and ensure safety of passengers, assist with navigationAssist with ship maintenance, mooring, cargo handling
Industry UsageMaritime passenger transport, tourismMaritime shipping, cargo transport

Passenger Vessel crew and Marine Deckhands share similar safety certifications and work environments, but their roles differ. Passenger Vessels focus on passenger safety and comfort, while Marine Deckhands assist with ship operations and maintenance. Both roles are essential in maritime industries involving passenger ships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a passenger vessel crew member?

To thrive as a Passenger Vessel Crew Member, you need knowledge of maritime safety, emergency procedures, and customer service, typically supported by STCW certification and relevant maritime training. Familiarity with navigation systems, safety equipment, and onboard communication tools is often required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for serving passengers and collaborating with crew. These skills and qualifications ensure safe vessel operations, excellent passenger experience, and compliance with maritime regulations.
More about Passenger Vessel jobs
What job categories do people searching Passenger Vessel jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Passenger Vessel jobs are:
Passenger Vessel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Passenger Vessel job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,210 per year, or $16 per hour.

Passenger Vessel Captain

Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Savannah, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Passenger Vessel Captain (100 Ton Master License)
Reports To: Director of Marine Operation
Location: Savannah Riverboat Cruises, Savannah, Georgia
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
Savannah Riverboat Cruises is seeking a professional, safety-focused, customer-oriented Captain holding a valid U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master License to safely operate passenger vessels on the historic Savannah River. The Captain is responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel, supervision of crew members, compliance with all Coast Guard regulations, and ensuring every guest enjoys a safe, memorable, and exceptional experience.
The Captain serves as the senior authority onboard while underway and is expected to demonstrate outstanding leadership, professionalism, and commitment to safety at all times.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Vessel Operations
  • Safely navigate and operate company vessels in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and company policies.
  • Conduct pre-departure, underway, and post-voyage inspections.
  • Monitor weather, river conditions, tides, currents, and vessel traffic.
  • Ensure safe docking, undocking, and passenger boarding procedures.
  • Operate navigation, propulsion, steering, communication, and safety equipment.
  • Maintain complete situational awareness while operating the vessel.
Safety amp; Regulatory Compliance
  • Maintain full compliance with all applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Conduct safety briefings for crew prior to departures.
  • Ensure all emergency equipment is inspected and operational.
  • Lead emergency response procedures including fire and man overboard.
Leadership
  • Supervise deckhands, mates, engineers, and marine personnel.
  • Promote teamwork, accountability, and professionalism.
  • Train crew members on vessel operations and emergency procedures.
  • Enforce company policies and safety standards.
  • Evaluate crew performance and provide coaching when necessary.
Guest Experience
  • Welcome guests in a friendly and professional manner.
  • Coordinate with hospitality staff to ensure smooth cruise operations.
  • Assist with guest concerns when necessary.
  • Represent Savannah Riverboat Cruises with professionalism and pride.
Maintenance Responsibilities
  • Conduct daily vessel inspections.
  • Identify maintenance issues and report repair needs.
  • Coordinate with maintenance personnel regarding repairs.
  • Help preserve company assets through preventative maintenance.
Administrative Duties
  • Complete voyage logs and inspection reports.
  • Record fuel usage, engine hours, and maintenance issues.
  • Ensure required certificates and licenses remain current.
  • Participate in company meetings and safety training.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Master 100-Ton License (or greater)
  • Current TWIC Card
  • Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain)
  • Successful background check
Knowledge, Skills amp; Abilities
  • Strong vessel handling and docking skills
  • Excellent leadership and decision-making abilities
  • Knowledge of river navigation and local waterways
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Commitment to exceptional customer service
  • Mechanical aptitude is a plus
Physical Requirements
  • Stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Climb ladders and stairs.
  • Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Respond quickly during emergency situations.
Work Schedule
  • Days, evenings, weekends, and holidays required.
  • Overtime may be required during peak tourism seasons.
  • Flexible schedule based on cruise operations and special events.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master License greater than 100 Tons
  • Radar Observer Endorsement
  • FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit
  • Passenger vessel or dinner cruise experience
  • Local knowledge of the Savannah River and Port of Savannah
  • Leadership or supervisory experience in marine operations
Equal Employment Opportunity
Savannah Riverboat Cruises is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workplace that values safety, professionalism, teamwork, and respect for all employees and guests. Employment decisions are made without regard to any protected characteristic under applicable law.

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