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Sailboat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waterfront Tour Captain

Mystic, CT · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

BRECK MARSHALL (20' gaff rigged sailboat, no engine). BRECK operates six-hour days, weekends, and ... USCG 25-ton inland captains license for EXPRESS, ENCORE, and LIBERTY USCG 50-ton inland captains ...

Waterfront Tour Captain

Mystic, CT · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

... MARSHALL (20' gaff rigged sailboat, no engine). BRECK operates six-hour days, weekends, and ... Qualifications: · USCG 25-ton inland captains license for EXPRESS, ENCORE, and LIBERTY · USCG 50 ...

Waterfront Tour Captain

Mystic, CT · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

... MARSHALL (20' gaff rigged sailboat, no engine). BRECK operates six-hour days, weekends, and ... captains will be assigned vessels based on training, comfort in operating, museum's scheduling ...

Sailboat Captain information

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$9

$37

$76

How much do sailboat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for sailboat captain in the United States is $37.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sailboat Captain vs Yacht Crew Member?

AspectSailboat CaptainYacht Crew Member
CertificationsUSCG Master, STCWSTCW, specific roles
Work EnvironmentOnboard sailboats, navigation, leadershipOnboard yachts, assisting crew, customer service
Employer & IndustryPrivate sailboat owners, charter companiesLuxury yacht owners, charter companies

The Sailboat Captain is responsible for navigating and managing the sailboat, requiring certifications like USCG Master and STCW. In contrast, a Yacht Crew Member assists with onboard duties, customer service, and maintenance. While both roles work in the maritime industry, the Captain holds leadership and navigation responsibilities, whereas crew members support daily operations.

More about Sailboat Captain jobs

What cities are hiring for Sailboat Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Sailboat Captain job openings:

What states have the most Sailboat Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sailboat Captain jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sailboat Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,625 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Waterfront Tour Captain

Mystic Seaport Museum

Mystic, CT • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

Purpose of Position:  

 To safely operate tour vessels and provide an enjoyable on-the-water experience for visitors. 


Vessels include:

SABINO (56' historic wooden steamboat operating a diesel electric drive). SABINO operates ten-hour days, daily, May 22 - October 18.

MYSTIC SEAPORT EXPRESS (25' diesel powered launch). EXPRESS operates 8-hour days, weekends and holidays May 16-June 14 and Sept 12-27 and daily June19-Sept 7.

LIBERTY (40' diesel powered launch), LIBERTY operates as a charter only vessel/short distance shuttle, and as an emergency response/tow vessel.

ENCORE (motor yacht for charter). ENCORE operates as a charter only vessel, 3- or 5-hour downriver charters into Fishers Island Sound.

BRECK MARSHALL (20' gaff rigged sailboat, no engine). BRECK operates six-hour days, weekends, and holidays May 23- June 14 and Sept 12-September 27 and daily June 20-Sept 7.


The ability to run all vessels is not required - captains will be assigned vessels based on training, comfort in operating, museum's scheduling needs, and captain's availability.


Essential Functions:  

Safely operate the vessel assigned in a variety of weather conditions while providing passengers of various ages and diverse backgrounds an excellent experience.

Ensure USCG regulations are followed

Enjoy interacting with museum guests, volunteers, and the public

Good natured attitude in a highly fluid environment

Ensure passenger safety

Help mentor and train deckhands (SABINO)

Communicate any problems, issues or maintenance needs to supervisor


Requirements

Qualifications:  

USCG 25-ton inland captains license for EXPRESS, ENCORE, and LIBERTY

USCG 50-ton inland captains license for SABINO

Inland OUPV and a high level of sailing skills for BRECK MARSHALL

Willingness to undergo scheduled and random drug testing.

High degree of skill in handling single screw vessels of equivalent size

Must be comfortable operating a vessel in heavy vessel traffic, under varied tides and weather conditions.?

Willingness to work evenings, and holidays as needed.

An interest in and the ability to interact with Museum visitors to better their understanding of the work at hand as well as the broader educational goals of the Museum.?

Ability to communicate effectively with passengers

Ability to give a tour to visitors of the waterfront and Museum

An interest in and the ability to pass work related skills to other staff and volunteers

Ability to lift moderately heavy loads

Ability to assist passengers board and disembark as needed

Ability to work collaboratively with others in a highly fluid environment.

Must be able to access boats, floats, and bilges 


The nature of the work involved requires extended periods outdoors in all weather conditions during spring, summer, and fall. This position requires an ability to maintain high levels of visual and mental concentration for extended periods of time and requires positive interaction with the public. The incumbent interacts with a broad range of individuals including fellow staff, visitors, volunteers, trustees, vendors, etc. In all of these interactions, the reputation of Mystic Seaport and the Watercraft Area are at stake. It is essential that a high degree of professionalism be exhibited at all times.