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Passenger Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Deckhand

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Monitor passenger & crewmember safety issues on the vessel. Ensure that safety equipment is utilized and appropriate guidelines are followed for all tasks involving physical risk or hazardous ...

The Captain operates a United States Coast Guard (USCG) inspected small passenger vessel under contract with the National Park Service between the San Francisco Waterfront, Alcatraz Island, and on ...

Safe vessel tie up to docks and piers; * Positive communication with crew; * Passenger embarkation/debarkation safety and operation; * Repair and modification of related equipment such as pumps ...

Safe vessel tie up to docks and piers; * Positive communication with crew; * Passenger embarkation/debarkation safety and operation; * Repair and modification of related equipment such as pumps ...

Safe vessel tie up to docks and piers; * Positive communication with crew; * Passenger embarkation/debarkation safety and operation; * Repair and modification of related equipment such as pumps ...

Work is performed primarily onboard a Coast Guard-inspected passenger vessel, with duties split between dining, service, storage, galley-adjacent, and administrative areas. * Position requires ...

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Passenger Vessel information

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How much do passenger vessel jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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
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.

$20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Hornblower rating

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


Job description

Position Summary:
The Deckhand monitors deck areas onboard the vessel(s) as well as passengers, to ensure safety during ferry operations, dockside and underway. The Deckhand handles lines and rigging to launch or dock the boat and performs custodial and/or general maintenance tasks as directed. The Deckhand provides a high level of customer service to all guests.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Monitor passenger & crewmember safety issues on the vessel. Ensure that safety equipment is utilized and appropriate guidelines are followed for all tasks involving physical risk or hazardous materials.
  • Participate in meetings, training, drills, and safety audits as required by USCG & company policy.
  • Develop an understanding of all phases of shipboard safety procedures and knowledge of the location and use of all firefighting and safety equipment (i.e., fire extinguishers, fire stations, life preservers, work vest, life floats, and rescue boat).
  • Handle and dispose of all chemicals and other types of hazardous or caustic materials in compliance with Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), as required.
  • Report safety-related concerns.
  • Handle mooring lines to dock or undock the vessel.
  • Responsible for getting underway, mooring, anchoring, handling lines, and bridge operations in all weather conditions.
  • Sell tickets and concessions, responsible for ticketing equipment, inventory, and cash.
  • Provide refreshments including alcoholic beverages at times, to guests.
  • Perform lookout duties while underway, including watching for other vessels and monitoring the waterway for potentially unsafe conditions.
  • Assist in boarding and disembarking of passengers and vehicles.
  • Assist with filling potable water, bunkering fuel, connecting, and disconnecting shore power as directed.
  • Perform cleaning and custodial tasks of the vessels and property, including maintenance and construction tasks as assigned and minor engineering repairs and rounds as directed.
  • Assist with training of crew as directed.
  • Comply with rules and regulations contained in the crew handbook and as directed by supervisor.
  • Understand and comply with the Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Understand and comply with Ship Instructions (SIs).
  • Maintain Crew Qualification binder.
  • Collaborate with other HMS personnel to remain attentive to regulatory requirements and alert to regulatory changes.
  • Assist the Master in ensuring compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations.
  • Assist the Master in ensuring the vessel is in an inspection-ready condition at all times.
  • Present professional level of customer service and appearance to all clients and at all times, both internal and external.
  • Responsible for handling money and balancing deposits/money bags.
  • Report safety, operational, and environmental issues to the vessel master.
  • Additional job duties as assigned.

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • HS Diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC Card), and/or ability to obtain and maintain
  • Valid First Aid/CPR Certification, and/or ability to obtain and maintain
  • Obtain and maintain certification for alcohol service after training completion
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Ability to effectively interact with the passengers, guests, and fellow employees
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, quickly changing environment
  • Basic computer skills with Microsoft Office familiarity
  • Minimum six (6) months customer service experience preferred
  • Previous marine experience or watch standing experience preferred
  • One (1) year experience as Deckhand onboard vessels; passenger vessel experience preferred
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Copy of DD214, if Veteran status
  • Must be at least 18 years of age

Compensation based on licensing/credentials.

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