What Water Vessel Captains DoCommand or supervise operations of ships and water vessels, such as tugboats and ferryboats. Required to hold license issued by U.S. Coast Guard.
- Direct courses and speeds of ships, based on specialized knowledge of local winds, weather, water depths, tides, currents, and hazards.
- Prevent ships under navigational control from engaging in unsafe operations.
- Serve as a vessel's docking master upon arrival at a port or at a berth.
- Consult maps, charts, weather reports, or navigation equipment to determine and direct ship movements.
- Steer and operate vessels, using radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, or lighthouses.
Water Vessel Captains Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationVocational Training
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time1 to 2 years
Job Openings4,300 Annually
Median Earnings
$79,560 in California
$85,540 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
@captainkatemccue
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Using data or completing tasks
- Working with my hands
you value
- Having support
- Having freedom
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Coordination
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Monitoring
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Water Vessel Captains Explained
Water Vessel CaptainExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
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