Ferryboat Captain Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of marine transport, the role of ferryboat captains has never been more vital.

As maritime travel continues to thrive, the demand for skilled navigators who can manage, operate, and ensure the safety of our waterborne vessels increases.

But let’s navigate beyond the surface: What’s truly expected from a ferryboat captain?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager charting out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuances of maritime operations,

You’ve dropped anchor at the right place.

Today, we unfurl a customizable ferryboat captain job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s set sail on this journey.

Ferryboat Captain Duties and Responsibilities

Ferryboat Captains are responsible for commanding vessels that transport people and vehicles across bodies of water.

They ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo, and the efficient operation of the vessel.

The duties and responsibilities of a Ferryboat Captain include:

• Commanding and operating the ferryboat, while ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo
• Setting the ship’s speed and course, taking into account weather conditions, tide levels, and ship’s load
• Inspecting the boat regularly to ensure it is seaworthy and meets all safety regulations
• Coordinating and supervising the activities of the crew members
• Maintaining communication with coastguards, harbors, or other vessels to ensure a safe journey
• Performing emergency procedures in case of emergencies such as fires, collisions, or abandon ship orders
• Keeping detailed logs of the journey, including course and speed, and any unusual events
• Overseeing the loading and unloading of vehicles, people, and cargo to ensure balance and safety

 

Ferryboat Captain Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and reliable Ferryboat Captain to oversee daily operations of our ferry services.

The Ferryboat Captain will be responsible for commanding the ferry, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers and crew, navigating to avoid hazardous situations, and maintaining the ship’s logs and records.

An ideal candidate should be a skilled communicator, an excellent navigator, and should be well-versed in maritime law and standard operating procedures.

 

Responsibilities

• Command the ferry to ensure safe transportation of passengers and cargo.
• Oversee the loading and unloading of passengers and vehicles.
• Comply with all maritime laws and regulations for safe operation of the vessel.
• Monitor weather conditions and navigate to avoid hazardous situations.
• Perform routine inspections to ensure that the ferry is seaworthy.
• Maintain the ship’s logs and records.
• Supervise the work of the ferry crew and ensure their adherence to safety protocols.
• Coordinate with port authorities for docking and undocking procedures.
• Handle emergency situations efficiently and calmly.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Ferryboat Captain or similar role.
• Valid Captain’s license.
• Knowledge of maritime law and standard operating procedures.
• Excellent navigation and communication skills.
• Physical fitness and the ability to stay calm in emergencies.
• High school diploma or equivalent; higher degree in a relevant discipline will be a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Ferryboat Captain
• Work Environment: Onboard a ferry. This role requires long hours and potential overnight stays. It also involves working in all weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Port Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $125,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if multiple locations)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Ferryboat Captain Do?

Ferryboat Captains are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of their vessel, transporting passengers and vehicles across bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans.

They are responsible for piloting the boat, navigating through waterways using radars, compasses, charts, buoys, or other navigational aids.

They must possess a strong understanding of the weather and sea conditions to make accurate decisions about routes and speeds.

Ferryboat Captains also oversee the loading and unloading of vehicles, freight, and passengers to ensure safety.

They communicate safety procedures and regulations to the crew and passengers, conduct safety drills, and ensure all safety equipment is in working order.

In addition, Ferryboat Captains are responsible for the maintenance and operation of the ferry’s mechanical systems.

They perform regular inspections to identify any technical or mechanical issues that need to be addressed, and coordinate with engineers or other crew members for repairs.

Moreover, they manage the crew members and delegate duties to ensure smooth operations.

They also handle paperwork such as logs of the journey, maintenance records, and incident reports.

Lastly, they maintain communication with ports and maritime authorities, providing information about the ferry’s location, speed, and estimated time of arrival or departure.

They are also responsible for managing emergency situations and making crucial decisions in the event of an emergency.

 

Ferryboat Captain Qualifications and Skills

A competent Ferryboat Captain should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the job role such as:

• Navigation skills to guide and operate the ferry safely across bodies of water
• Technical knowledge and understanding of marine engineering to manage and maintain the ferry’s machinery and equipment
• Excellent interpersonal skills to efficiently communicate with crew members, harbor personnel, and passengers
• Emergency response skills to handle emergencies on board, including medical emergencies, fires, or extreme weather conditions
• Decision-making skills to make critical decisions under pressure and in fast-paced environments
• Leadership skills to direct and manage the crew effectively
• Physical stamina and resilience to cope with long working hours, often in difficult weather conditions
• Knowledge of maritime laws and regulations to ensure compliance and safety of the crew and passengers
• Customer service skills to provide a pleasant journey experience for passengers and handle any passenger complaints or issues

 

Ferryboat Captain Experience Requirements

Becoming a Ferryboat Captain often requires considerable maritime experience.

Typically, a minimum of a few years of experience in the maritime industry is needed, often as a deckhand or another shipboard position.

The experience requirements vary depending on the size and complexity of the ferry operations.

For smaller, simpler ferry operations, relevant experience could come from working on private or commercial boats.

For larger, more complex operations, experience on larger vessels or specific types of ships may be necessary.

In addition to general maritime experience, Ferryboat Captains must also possess a certain number of hours of ‘sea time’, the specific amount of which varies depending on the maritime regulations of each country.

This ‘sea time’ is generally accumulated while working in entry-level positions on a ship, such as a deckhand or mate.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have acquired advanced maritime skills, a comprehensive knowledge of navigation and safety procedures, and a deep understanding of the operational aspects of running a ferry service.

These individuals are typically ready for the responsibilities that come with the title of Ferryboat Captain.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have held leadership roles such as First Mate or even Captain on other vessels, and are often well-prepared to handle the complexities and challenges of commanding a ferry.

They may also be qualified for higher-level roles such as Port Captain or Operations Manager.

 

Ferryboat Captain Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Ferryboat Captain requires a combination of formal education, practical training, and certification.

The minimum education requirement is a high school diploma or its equivalent.

The prospective captain often begins their career with entry-level work in the marine industry, for instance as deckhand, to gain practical experience.

Formal training is typically pursued through a maritime academy or similar institution.

These programs provide theoretical knowledge and practical training in areas like navigation, ship handling, maritime law and regulations, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance.

Many maritime academies offer a bachelor’s degree in marine transportation or a related field, which includes courses in seamanship, navigation, vessel operations, and maritime law.

Most importantly, Ferryboat Captains are required to obtain a license from the United States Coast Guard or equivalent authority in other countries.

The specific license required, such as a Master’s license, depends on the size of the vessel and its intended service.

To qualify for a license, the candidate must meet criteria that include sea service experience, passing a physical examination, drug testing, and successfully completing a comprehensive written examination.

Additional certifications may be needed for operations like radar navigation or handling hazardous materials.

Ferryboat Captains often participate in ongoing professional development and training to stay updated on safety regulations and technological advancements.

 

Ferryboat Captain Salary Expectations

A Ferryboat Captain earns an average salary of $72,340 (USD) per year.

However, this may fluctuate depending on the individual’s years of experience, the location of the job, and the company for which they work.

 

Ferryboat Captain Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Ferryboat Captain need?

Ferryboat Captains require excellent navigational skills and knowledge of maritime laws and regulations.

They should have strong leadership and communication abilities to effectively coordinate with their crew.

They also require a good understanding of mechanical systems related to the operation of the ferry.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential.

 

Do Ferryboat Captains need a license?

Yes, Ferryboat Captains must hold a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard.

They must also possess a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) from the Transportation Security Administration.

These qualifications require passing physical, drug, and background checks, as well as maritime education and on-board training.

 

What should you look for in a Ferryboat Captain resume?

A Ferryboat Captain resume should include their maritime education and training, any special certifications, and extensive on-water experience.

The resume should also include their experience with the type of ferry and waterways your service operates on.

Other important aspects are their understanding of safety protocols and emergency procedures, and their leadership experience.

 

What qualities make a good Ferryboat Captain?

A good Ferryboat Captain should be skilled in leadership and able to handle high-stress situations.

They should have a solid understanding of maritime law, navigational techniques, and vessel mechanics.

Good captains also have excellent communication skills, as they need to coordinate with their crew and interact with passengers effectively.

They should be vigilant, responsible, and have a strong commitment to safety.

 

Is it challenging to hire Ferryboat Captains?

Hiring a Ferryboat Captain can be a challenge due to the specific qualifications required, including licensing, maritime training, and extensive experience.

It’s important to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract the best candidates.

Additionally, many experienced captains may prefer routes or schedules that your service may not offer, making hiring a suitable captain more challenging.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve navigated the choppy waters of what it truly means to be a ferryboat captain.

Surprised?

It’s not just about steering the ship.

It’s about orchestrating the ebb and flow of maritime journeys, one voyage at a time.

With our comprehensive ferryboat captain job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to set sail.

But why dock here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your beacon for creating razor-sharp listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every voyage is part of a larger journey.

Let’s navigate the future. Together.

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