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Summer Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cragun's Resort

Boat Cruise Captain

Brainerd, MN

Cragun's Resort on beautiful Gull Lake is seeking a Part-Time/Seasonal Boat Captain to drive our ... Spend your summer on the water. * Competitive pay. * Fun, team-oriented environment.

Cragun's Resort

Boat Cruise Captain

Brainerd, MN · On-site

Cragun's Resort on beautiful Gull Lake is seeking a Part-Time/Seasonal Boat Captain to drive our ... Spend your summer on the water. * Competitive pay. * Fun, team-oriented environment.

Cragun's Resort

Boat Cruise Captain

Brainerd, MN · On-site

Cragun's Resort on beautiful Gull Lake is seeking a Part-Time/Seasonal Boat Captain to drive our ... Spend your summer on the water. * Competitive pay. * Fun, team-oriented environment.

Cragun's Resort

Boat Cruise Captain

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$50/hr

Cragun's Resort on beautiful Gull Lake is seeking a Part-Time/Seasonal Boat Captain to drive our ... Spend your summer on the water. * Competitive pay. * Fun, team-oriented environment.

PURE EVENTS LP

Proud Mary Captain

Entriken, PA

... summer holiday availability is a must * This is a seasonal position * PA Boating Education Safety Certificate required. Captains also must pass a practical driving test issued by PA Fish and Boat ...

PURE EVENTS LP

Proud Mary Captain

Entriken, PA · On-site

... summer holiday availability is a must * This is a seasonal position * PA Boating Education Safety Certificate required. Captains also must pass a practical driving test issued by PA Fish and Boat ...

Leidos

Small Research Vessel Captain

... austral summer season (Oct-April). The Small R/V Captain supports all aspects of waterfront ... boat handling, creating a float plan, rough weather operations, sea ice operations, vessel safety ...

NauticALL

Captain - 70' - Private

Miami Beach, FL

$95K/yr

The owners maintain a relaxed, well-organized program with limited to no usage during the summer months. As the sole full-time crew member, the Captain will oversee all aspects of the vessel ...

NauticALL

Captain - 70' - Private

Miami Beach, FL · On-site

$95K/yr

The owners maintain a relaxed, well-organized program with limited to no usage during the summer months. As the sole full-time crew member, the Captain will oversee all aspects of the vessel ...

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All JobsSummer Boat Captain Jobs

Summer Boat Captain information

See salary details

$5

$25

$48

How much do summer boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer boat captain in the United States is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Summer Boat Captain, you need a valid captain’s license (such as a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential), strong navigation skills, and knowledge of boating safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and vessel maintenance tools is typically required. Exceptional leadership, clear communication, and customer service skills help create a safe and enjoyable experience for passengers. These abilities are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, efficient vessel operation, and compliance with legal requirements during seasonal boating activities.

What type of boat captain makes the most money?

In the boating industry, yacht captains, especially those operating large luxury vessels or superyachts, tend to earn the highest salaries. Their earnings are influenced by vessel size, experience, certifications, and the type of clientele they serve. Commercial captains in specialized fields like offshore or research vessels can also earn high wages due to the technical skills required.

What disqualifies you from getting a captain's license?

To obtain a summer boat captain's license, disqualifications include having a criminal record involving maritime safety or alcohol offenses, failing to meet age or physical fitness requirements, or lacking the necessary boating experience and certifications. Additionally, applicants must pass a written exam and a drug test, and any violations of maritime laws can disqualify candidates.

What is the difference between Summer Boat Captain vs Summer Yacht Steward?

AspectSummer Boat CaptainSummer Yacht Steward
CertificationsBoat operator licenses, CPR, first aidSTCW certification, hospitality training
Work EnvironmentOpen water, boat decks, navigation areasInterior yacht spaces, guest areas
Employer & IndustryMarinas, charter companies, private boat ownersLuxury yachts, private charters, yacht management

The Summer Boat Captain primarily focuses on navigation, safety, and operating the vessel, requiring licenses and maritime skills. In contrast, the Summer Yacht Steward handles guest services, hospitality, and interior maintenance, with a focus on customer experience. Both roles are essential in the boating industry but serve different functions based on their responsibilities and work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Summer Boat Captains, and how can they be addressed?

Summer Boat Captains often face challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, managing passenger safety, and navigating crowded waterways during peak season. To address these, captains must stay updated on weather forecasts, enforce safety protocols, and maintain clear communication with crew and passengers. Staying organized and adaptable, as well as participating in regular safety drills, can help ensure smooth operations and a positive experience for everyone on board.

How much do boat captains charge per hour?

Boat captains typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on factors such as experience, location, vessel size, and whether the trip is private or commercial. Rates may also include additional fees for fuel, permits, or special equipment. Certified captains with advanced skills or specialized licenses often command higher rates.

What are summer boat captains?

Summer boat captains are licensed professionals responsible for operating and navigating boats or ships during the summer season, often for recreational, tour, or charter services. They ensure passenger safety, manage the crew, and maintain compliance with maritime regulations. Their duties may also include performing routine maintenance, handling emergency situations, and providing information or entertainment to guests. Summer boat captains typically work in coastal or lake regions where boating is a popular seasonal activity.

Are boat captains in demand?

Boat captains are in demand in the recreational and tourism sectors, especially in popular boating regions. Employment opportunities depend on seasonal demand, certifications such as a USCG license, and experience operating various vessel types.
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Summer Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Boat Captain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Boat Captain

Boat Captain

TPG Hotels Resorts and Marinas

Meredith, NH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

EKAL Activity Center is the hub of the Mill Falls Resort. We strive to bring memorable outdoor experiences that exceed guest expectations, with comfort and safety as our top priorities.
We are looking for an experienced Boat Captain with a Commercial boater's license and knowledge of navigating Lake Winnipesaukee. The position is part-time or full-time during the summer season and weekends off-season.
  • Check daily bookings on our Fare Harbor platform
  • Clean boats of dew, debris, and garbage
  • Put gas in boats (Meredith Marina, Mountain View Yacht Club, and Flight Craft General)
  • Equip boats with towels, blankets and water
  • Assist cruisers with bookings and collect payment
  • Help groups onboard boats
  • Provide children under 13 with required life vests
  • Leave promptly on the hour
  • Welcome guests and give Lake Winnipesaukee Tutorials
  • Captain Pontoon Boats on Island Cruises, Sunset Cruises and Special events
  • Captain Miss Meredith Wooden Boat
  • Hold current commercial boater license
  • Understand the navigation of Lake Winnipesaukee
  • Knowledge of Lake Winnipesaukee Broads & Bays
  • Cruise customers to Sandbars for swimming, Town Docks and Lake landmarks
  • Pick up customers at other docks within proximity
  • Assist with equipment rentals, tours, computer bookings, customer service, and other duties of Outdoor Activity Crew.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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