The requirements for becoming a boat captain vary greatly depending on where you live and the specific licensing regulations in your area. For example, in the United Kingdom, you should contact the Royal Yachting Association, which can provide you with details on licensing procedures and other requirements. Other requirements apply in the United States (US), and most applicants will need to contact the US Coast Guard for testing and exam procedures. In any situation, getting experience working on a boat, whether it’s a commercial fishing boat or a luxury cruise ship, can help you get ahead.
While specific requirements vary by country, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind as you pursue a career as a boat captain. Consider what it takes to become a licensed boat captain in the United States, and you’ll have a good idea of what you’ll need to do regardless of your location. To take the necessary exams required by US law to work as a boat captain in the United States, contact the US Coast Guard for a local Regional Exam Center.
You’ll need to show proof of 360 days of boating experience, including at least four hours at sea per day. These days must have occurred within the last five years, but they could have been spent on any boat or ship. The most important part of this required time to become a boat captain is documentation, so make sure you keep track of your hours and have the captain you serve under sign your records.
To become a boat captain in the United States, you must pass a fairly difficult written exam, and those who have passed it strongly advise that you prepare for it. The test covers material that goes beyond what can be easily learned from working on a boat, and there are a number of preparatory courses and books available to assist you in studying. This test includes questions on everything from proper deck and safety procedures to general navigation knowledge and even a few navigation problems that necessitate the use of a slide ruler to perform accurate triangulation of locations.
A background check, fingerprinting, and drug testing are also required, as well as a physical examination with an eye exam. You’ll also need to be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid, which you can get help with at your local YMCA or American Red Cross. Expect to need several recommendations, so think about who you know who has served as a captain or has yachting experience and can provide you with a solid recommendation.