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Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Providence, RI · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Wilmington, NC · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Newport, RI · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Savannah, GA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Newport, RI · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Myers Beach, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Guilford, CT

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Brunswick, GA

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Savannah, GA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Belfast, ME

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bucksport, ME · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Charleston, SC

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Point Pleasant, WV · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

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Ship Captain information

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$15

$26

$47

How much do ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship captain in the United States is $26.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a ship captain pay?

Ship captains typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel size, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on the type of shipping, certifications, and the region where they work, with some captains earning higher pay on large cargo ships or cruise vessels.

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

To thrive as a Ship Captain, you need extensive maritime knowledge, navigational expertise, and a valid captain's license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, GPS technology, and safety management protocols is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and effective communication skills help manage the crew and respond to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, compliance with international regulations, and the well-being of all onboard.

Is ship captain a good career?

A ship captain is a senior maritime professional responsible for navigating and managing a vessel, often requiring extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills. The career offers opportunities for travel and advancement but involves long hours, time away from home, and safety responsibilities. It can be financially rewarding but demands rigorous training and adherence to regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by Ship Captains during long voyages, and how are they typically managed?

One of the main challenges Ship Captains face during extended voyages is maintaining crew morale and operational efficiency in isolated and sometimes unpredictable environments. Captains must also manage navigation through changing weather conditions and ensure strict compliance with international maritime regulations. Effective communication, decisive leadership, and adaptability are crucial in addressing issues such as equipment malfunctions, time zone changes, and emergency situations. Regular safety drills, clear delegation of duties, and fostering a supportive team atmosphere help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What does a Ship Captain do?

A Ship Captain, also known as a Master or Captain, is responsible for the overall operation and safety of a vessel and its crew. Their duties include navigating and steering the ship, ensuring compliance with maritime laws, overseeing cargo operations, and managing onboard emergencies. Captains also supervise officers and crew, maintain detailed records and logs, and communicate with port authorities. Their leadership is crucial for the successful and safe completion of each voyage.

What Is a Ship Captain?

A ship captain is responsible for the safe operation and navigation of a sea vessel such as a ferry, barge, tugboat, or cruise ship. In this career, you must ensure its seaworthiness and follow all safety protocols for your passengers before setting sail. You also manage a large crew, ensuring that each crew member understands your policies. Other duties include setting the ship course, giving commands to your crew, and supervising the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers. You record all relevant information regarding each voyage, including the course and speed of the boat and weather conditions. Other responsibilities include maintaining equipment, like engines, navigational systems, and life preservers, and signaling passing vessels.

What is the difference between Ship Captain vs Ship Engineer?

AspectShip CaptainShip Engineer
CredentialsSTCW Master License, maritime certificationsSTCW Engineer License, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentBridge, deck operations, navigationEngine room, machinery maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime industryShip operators, maritime industry
Primary ResponsibilitiesNavigation, safety, crew managementEngine maintenance, machinery operation

While both Ship Captains and Ship Engineers work onboard ships within the maritime industry, the Ship Captain primarily oversees navigation, safety, and crew management, requiring a Master License. In contrast, the Ship Engineer focuses on maintaining and operating the ship's engines and machinery, holding an Engineer License. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient vessel operation but differ in their technical focus and responsibilities.

Who is the highest paid ship captain?

The highest paid ship captains typically work in the oil tanker, cruise ship, or large cargo vessel industries, with salaries reaching up to $200,000 or more annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, the size and type of vessel, and the employer's location. Senior captains with extensive experience and specialized skills tend to earn the highest salaries in the maritime industry.

How do you become a captain on a ship?

To become a ship captain, you typically need to gain experience as a deck officer by working on ships and obtaining necessary certifications such as a Master Mariner license. This process involves accumulating sea time, passing exams, and demonstrating leadership and navigation skills. Advancement depends on experience, training, and meeting regulatory requirements set by maritime authorities.
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Ship Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Captain job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Captain

Captain

American Cruise Lines

Mount Vernon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

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 & 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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