Ship's Captains

Employers

Ship's captains work for companies that have cruise lines, ferries, sightseeing boats, fishing boats, tugboats, and freighters. There are 12,570 ship and boat captains and operators employed in the United States, according to the Department of Labor. About 21 percent of all water transportation workers are employed in inland transportation; 14 percent work in deep sea, coastal, and Great Lakes water transportation; and the remainder are employed in scenic and sightseeing water transportation, in government agencies, or in support activities for water transportation.

Starting Out

Many ship's captains receive training through maritime academies and by starting out as deckhands on ships. They must meet specific requirements, including a certain amount of sea time, to receive a license to work in the United States. Each state issues ship captain licenses and the requirements vary by state. Many states will also allow ship captains to work in the state if they have captain's or ship master's licensing from the U.S. Coast Guard. This is a small, highly competitive field. Those with maritime education, appropriate certification and licensing, and experience in the field improve their job prospects.