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Tour Boat Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Guestservices

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and Near Costal Florida Bay waters. Our Captains operate in strict compliance with USCG regulations and ...

ANTELOPE POINT HOLDINGS LLC

Boat Captain

Page, AZ

Non-Exempt POSITION SUMMARY The Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tour and charter vessels, including vessel seaworthiness, safety, security, navigation, and ...

Guestservices

Boat Captain

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and Near Costal Florida Bay waters. Our Captains operate in strict compliance with USCG regulations and ...

Guest Services, Inc.

Boat Captain

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

Our Tour Boat Captains pilot twin outboard 45' Corinthian Catamarans in Everglades Backcountry and Near Costal Florida Bay waters. Our Captains operate in strict compliance with USCG regulations and ...

Icy Strait Point LLC

Boat Captain

Hoonah, AK · On-site

$30/hr

They are responsible for every aspect of the tour, voyage and vessel. Under advisement of the Fleet ... Captain is to follow schedule related to tours as well as operating vessel in only instructed areas.

St. Mary's County, MD

Boat Captain

Leonardtown, MD · On-site

$33.01/hr

Continuous Job Summary Captain of St. Mary's County passenger vessel; performs other duties as ... of the tour vessel.; * Reports to the St. Clement's Island Museum Site Supervisor problems ...

Mormac Marine Group Inc

Captain

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

CAPTAIN About Us Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is a family-oriented boat tour company that was started in 1934, by Milo Welch. For 91 years the traveling public have enjoyed exciting Great Lakes ...

Yurok Tribe (CA)

Jet Boat Deckhand

Klamath, CA

$21.30 - $32.21/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Under the general supervision of the Jet Boat Captain, the Jet Boat Deckhand is ... tour guide experience preferred but not necessary. 6. Must be capable of using escape hatches and ...

Yurok Tribe

Jet Boat Deckhand

Klamath, CA · On-site

$21.30 - $32.21/hr

Under the direction of the Jet Boat Captain the Deckhand must adhere to all United States Coast ... tour guide experience preferred but not necessary. 6. Must be capable of using escape hatches and ...

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How much do tour boat captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tour 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 Tour Boat Captain, and why are they important?

To excel as a Tour Boat Captain, you need a strong background in maritime navigation, vessel operation, and safety procedures, usually backed by a U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and safety equipment is critical, along with any relevant certifications like CPR and First Aid. Exceptional customer service, communication, and leadership skills set standout captains apart by ensuring enjoyable and informative tours. These competencies are essential for ensuring passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and a memorable tour experience.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Tour boat captains can earn around $2,000 a day in high-demand or luxury markets, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and operating large or specialized vessels. Earnings depend on factors like location, vessel size, and the type of tours or charters conducted, often involving long hours and seasonal work.

Is there a demand for boat captains?

The demand for boat captains, including tour boat captains, is generally steady and can vary by region and season. Growing interest in recreational boating and tourism industries often increase job opportunities, especially for those with proper licensing and safety certifications. Job prospects are typically better in popular tourist destinations and areas with active water-based recreation.

How much do 60 foot yacht captains make?

The salary of a 60-foot yacht captain typically ranges from $70,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of vessel. Captains with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn higher wages, especially on luxury or charter yachts.

What does a Tour Boat Captain do?

A Tour Boat Captain is responsible for operating and navigating boats that provide sightseeing or educational tours on rivers, lakes, or coastal waters. They ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, provide commentary or information about points of interest, and perform routine maintenance on the vessel. Tour Boat Captains must adhere to maritime laws and safety regulations, and often interact with guests to create an enjoyable and informative experience. They may also supervise crew members and respond to emergencies as needed.

What is the difference between Tour Boat Captain vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectTour Boat CaptainMarine Deckhand
Required CertificationsCaptain's license, CPR, first aidSTCW certification, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentPassenger vessels, leisure cruisesCommercial ships, cargo or passenger vessels
Employer & IndustryTour operators, recreational boatingMaritime companies, shipping industry
Job FocusNavigation, passenger safety, customer serviceDeck maintenance, cargo handling, safety procedures

The main difference between a Tour Boat Captain and a Marine Deckhand lies in their responsibilities and certifications. The Tour Boat Captain is licensed to operate passenger vessels, focusing on navigation and passenger safety, while the Marine Deckhand assists with vessel maintenance and safety tasks. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry but serve different functions within the vessel's operation.

What are some common challenges faced by tour boat captains, and how can they be managed effectively?

Tour boat captains often face challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, managing diverse groups of passengers, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication and quick decision-making are essential, especially during emergencies or when navigating crowded waterways. Building strong teamwork with crew members and staying updated with local maritime regulations help ensure smooth operations and positive guest experiences.

What is the highest paid boat captain?

The highest paid boat captains are typically those working in specialized sectors such as luxury yacht or cruise ship operations, where salaries can exceed $150,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, vessel size, and the complexity of the environment they operate in.
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Tour Boat Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tour Boat Captain job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Tour Boat Captain -Kingston NY

Tour Boat Captain -Kingston NY

Hudson River Maritime Museum

Kingston, NY • On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Tour Boat Captain - Kingston NY
The Hudson River Maritime Museum, in Kingston NY, is seeking a licensed captain to run our 44' solar tour vessel, Solaris. Trips that range from 1 to 2 hours are run from our dock on Rondout Creek, in downtown Kingston. Solaris is completely quiet, powered by a single-screw electric motor and accommodates up to 24 passengers . Trips include various creek and river excursions and visits to our 1913 Rondout Lighthouse. Captain is not required to give tours but should be comfortable welcoming passengers and explaining rules and regs to passengers. Trips are scheduled from late morning to after dusk, and various shift opportunities are available, including charters. Season is mid-May through October with potential for additional trips and charters.
Requirements:
  • Min 25-ton capacity captains license
  • Be able to pass initial and random drug tests
  • Previous experience driving tour boats or similar
  • Strong navigational skills and knowledge of local waterways
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and make quick decisions in emergency situations

Duties:
  • Ensure the safety of passengers and crew members
  • Navigate waterways and follow designated routes
  • Communicate with passengers, crew, and port authorities
  • Monitor weather conditions and make necessary adjustments to the route
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols

Job Type: Part-time, seasonal,1 to 3 days a week as available
Pay: $27 - $29 per hour depending on experience
Supplemental Pay: tips
Please send resumes to: lcline@hrmm.org