Ship and Boat Captains and Operators Salary: $86,940 Median (2025)
The median annual salary for ship and boat captains and operators in the U.S. is $86,940, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $42 per hour. The top 10% earn more than $169,670, while the bottom 10% make below $45,070. These figures come from the BLS's most recent survey covering about 39,330 jobs across the country.
How much Ship and Boat Captains and Operators earn
The typical salary range runs from $45,070 at the 10th percentile to $169,670 at the 90th. That wide spread reflects differences in vessel type, experience, and geographic location. The mean annual wage is $100,730, meaning the average leans higher than the median due to high earners at the top. Pay often scales with vessel size and cargo value—those running large commercial ships or tankers tend to land at the upper end. Entry-level positions, such as deckhands or small-boat operators, occupy the lower range.
- 10th percentile: $45,070
- Median: $86,940
- Mean: $100,730
- 90th percentile: $169,670
Pay by state
State-level pay data is not available from the BLS for this occupation. However, wages typically run higher in states with major ports, offshore oil and gas operations, or ferry systems—places like Louisiana, Texas, Washington, and Alaska. Inland states with limited waterways usually offer lower pay. For exact state figures, check the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics database.
How to become a Ship or Boat Captain or Operator
Most captains and operators start as deckhands or mates and work their way up through experience and licensure. A high school diploma is the minimum education, but many employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in marine transportation or a related field. The key credential is a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, along with a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). For larger vessels, you need a license specific to the tonnage and route—often requiring sea time, exams, and drug tests. Many mariners attend a maritime academy for a two- or four-year degree, which combines classroom instruction with on-water training.
- Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Earn a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) from the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Complete required sea time and pass licensing exams.
- Consider a maritime academy degree for better job prospects.
- Renew credentials and maintain health/fitness standards.
Job outlook
Projected employment change for ship and boat captains and operators is not available from the BLS for the 2024–2034 period. That said, job opportunities should arise from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation. Demand for cargo transportation and passenger services on waterways continues, so prospects may be favorable for those with the right licenses and experience.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for ship and boat captains?
The national median salary is $86,940 per year, with the top 10% earning over $169,670 and the bottom 10% below $45,070.
What education do I need to become a ship captain?
A high school diploma is the minimum, but many employers prefer a bachelor's degree in marine transportation. You also need a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and a TWIC card.
How long does it take to become a captain?
It typically takes several years of sea experience as a deckhand or mate, plus passing Coast Guard exams. Maritime academy graduates may advance faster.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Ship and Boat Captains and Operators data.