A boat captain is responsible for the operation and navigation of a vessel. They are in charge of the safety of the crew and passengers, as well as the cargo. Boat captains must have a thorough knowledge of maritime law and regulations.
Boat Captain job duties include:
- Act as a ship's officer in charge of the deck and its associated equipment and personnel
- Plan and direct navigation of the vessel
- Maintain control of the vessel's speed and heading at all times
- Oversee the loading, unloading, and securing of cargo and passengers
- Monitor the vessel's radio communications and respond to distress calls as necessary
- Prepare and maintain navigational charts and publications
- Keep watch for other vessels, obstacles, and hazards at all times
- Supervise the work of deck crew members in maintaining the vessel and its equipment
- Inspect the vessel regularly to ensure that it is seaworthy and compliant with all regulations
Boat Captain Job Requirements
There are no formal education requirements for becoming a boat captain, but most employers prefer to hire candidates with at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some companies may require captain candidates to have a certain amount of experience working on boats, and many captains also choose to pursue voluntary certification through organizations like the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition to on-the-job training, new captains may also be required to complete a captain's license course, which covers topics like navigation, boating safety, and emergency procedures.
Boat Captain Skills
- Seamanship
- Navigation
- Rules of the road
- Weather
- Charting
- Dead reckoning
- Piloting
- Radio communications
- Engine maintenance
- First aid
- CPR
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How to become a Boat Captain
A boat captain is responsible for the vessel and everyone on board. They are in charge of navigation, safety, and crew management. To become a boat captain, you will need to have experience working on boats and completing boating safety courses. You will also need to obtain a captain’s license from the United States Coast Guard.
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