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Sailing Captain Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Seeking an experienced offshore Captain for rotational position on a 100' school ship serving at ... Vessel The vessel is a 100' Giorgetti & Magrini ketch-rigged sailing yacht with accommodations for ...

Boat Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$76 - $91/hr

Seeking an experienced offshore Captain for rotational position on a 100' school ship serving at ... Vessel The vessel is a 100' Giorgetti & Magrini ketch-rigged sailing yacht with accommodations for ...

Seeking an experienced offshore Captain for rotational position on a 100' school ship serving at ... Vessel The vessel is a 100' Giorgetti & Magrini ketch-rigged sailing yacht with accommodations for ...

BOAT CAPTAIN

Miami, FL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

As a Boat Captain for Island Dreamer Sailing your duties will include learning the general mechanics and safety equipment for each boat, boat handling, and learning the inlets, shallow reefs, snorkel ...

BOAT CAPTAIN

Homestead, FL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

As a Boat Captain for Island Dreamer Sailing your duties will include learning the general mechanics and safety equipment for each boat, boat handling, and learning the inlets, shallow reefs, snorkel ...

... Captains, and communicating with participants prior to their arrival. This application is for the ... We offer programs that include fishing, sailing, scuba diving, coral restoration, snorkeling ...

... Captains, and communicating with participants prior to their arrival.This application is for the ... We offer programs that include fishing, sailing, scuba diving, coral restoration, snorkeling ...

... Captains, and communicating with participants prior to their arrival.This application is for the ... We offer programs that include fishing, sailing, scuba diving, coral restoration, snorkeling ...

... Captains, and communicating with participants prior to their arrival. This application is for the ... We offer programs that include fishing, sailing, scuba diving, coral restoration, snorkeling ...

Supervising vessels command including sailing voyage reports and procedures. * Monitoring expenses ... Experience as a Captain on a Container Vessel - Must * Relevant Shore-side experience - Must

Supervising vessels command including sailing voyage reports and procedures. * Monitoring expenses ... Experience as a Captain on a Container Vessel - Must * Relevant Shore-side experience - Must

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Sailing Captain information

See Florida salary details

$5

$15

$36

How much do sailing captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for sailing captain in Florida is $15.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.77 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sailing captain do?

A Sailing Captain is responsible for commanding and navigating a sailing vessel, ensuring the safety of the crew and passengers, and managing all aspects of the voyage. This includes plotting courses, monitoring weather conditions, and maintaining the boat’s equipment. Sailing Captains are also in charge of compliance with maritime laws and often oversee crew training and guest experiences. Their expertise is essential for both recreational charters and commercial sailing operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sailing captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sailing Captain, you need comprehensive seamanship knowledge, navigation skills, and typically a recognized captain's license such as a USCG or RYA certification. Familiarity with navigational software, marine radios, and safety equipment is essential. Leadership, quick decision-making, and effective communication distinguish outstanding captains. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety of the crew and vessel, efficient voyage planning, and successful sailing operations.

What are some common challenges sailing captains face when managing a crew on longer voyages?

Sailing Captains often encounter challenges related to crew dynamics and morale, especially during extended trips. Maintaining clear communication, establishing routines, and ensuring everyone understands their responsibilities are essential for smooth operations. Captains must also be prepared to handle unexpected weather changes, mechanical issues, and potential conflicts among crew members. Developing strong leadership skills and adaptability is crucial for fostering a positive and efficient working environment at sea.

What is the difference between Sailing Captain vs Marine Engineer?

AspectSailing CaptainMarine Engineer
CredentialsCaptain's license, STCW certificationMarine engineering degree, STCW certification
Work EnvironmentOnboard sailing vessels, yachts, shipsEngine rooms, ship machinery, technical facilities
Industry UsageMaritime, yachting, cruise linesShipbuilding, maintenance, repair

The Sailing Captain primarily oversees navigation, safety, and crew management on vessels, while the Marine Engineer focuses on maintaining and repairing the ship's engines and technical systems. Both roles require STCW certification and are essential in maritime operations, but they differ in daily responsibilities and technical expertise.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Sailing Captain job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,995 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Sailing Yacht Apprenticeship

SailFuture

Saint Petersburg, FL

$2.0K/mo

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

About the Apprenticeship
The Yacht Apprenticeship is designed for young adults interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry. The 12-month apprenticeship will take you around the world, exploring the Americas and the Caribbean.
You will learn and train under experienced mariners while earning sea time towards professional credentials, such as your USCG Captain’s License, Engineering certification, and STCW. At the end of the apprenticeship, SailFuture will provide a stipend to cover the costs of your training classes and exams.
Apprentices reside on the vessel year-round in shared crew quarters with a shared bathroom. Apprentices receive 15 days of paid leave throughout the year.
Apprentices work directly under the Captain, learning all aspects of ship operations and managing complex systems, such as air conditioning, refrigeration, mechanical, electrical, hydraulics, running rigging, etc.
Day to day life revolves around the ship schedule and includes both responsibilities to the ship and program operations, such as education, diving, and sail training. Apprentices can expect at least one day of shore-side leave per week.

About the Vessel
The SailFuture academy Sailing Yacht is a year-round sailing school vessel operating in the Caribbean in the winter months and New England in the summer months.
The vessel is a 100’ Giorgetti & Magrini ketch-rigged sailing yacht with accommodations for 8 students, 2 apprentices, and 6 staff.
Vessel operations include 7-week sailing expeditions with students from the SailFuture Academy and week-long corporate retreats and private charters with paying clients.
Compensation:

  • $2,000 monthly tax-free monthly stipend 
  • Room & Board
  • Group meals
  • International health insurance
  • 15 days paid leave per year, including 1 round trip travel to and from the vessel
  • Payment for STCW classes and certification