Working as a captain on a cargo ship, cruise ship, yacht, ferry, commercial fishing boat, or as a harbor pilot are all possibilities. In each case, the captain is in charge of the vessel’s operation and safety while in national or international waters. A captain keeps an eye on the crew to ensure that the voyage goes off without a hitch.
On cruise ships, captain jobs may include handling immigration paperwork when the ship docks in different ports. The captain is responsible for the passengers’ enjoyment while adhering to company policy. When traveling in international waters, he or she also follows international law. The captain usually has a navigational license from the flag country of the ship’s home port.
Captain jobs in rivers, harbors, and canals are represented harbor pilots. These captains may work on their own, assisting ships as they navigate through narrow waterways. They are aware of how currents, tides, and winds affect navigation, as well as any potential underwater hazards. Harbor pilot jobs typically entail guiding several ships per day as they enter and exit harbors.
On commercial fishing vessels, captains are responsible for overseeing all supplies and equipment for each trip at sea. These captains choose where the crew fishes and what kind of seafood they want to catch, as well as organizing the catch’s sale. Captains hire crews and pay them a portion of the sale proceeds. Captains of commercial fishing boats ensure that all necessary permits and licenses are obtained in order to comply with applicable laws.
Yacht captain jobs are likely to be in high demand because they pay well. Captains may only work for wealthy owners who travel sea on a regular basis. Some captains work on chartered yachts more frequently than others. When the yacht isn’t at sea, the captain usually ensures that the vessel is in good working order.
Commuter passengers may be transported ferry captains on a daily basis. Some of these jobs may entail transporting vacationing tourists. A ferry captain’s duties usually consist of regular working hours with him returning home at night.
Offshore supply vessels may have captain positions available. These ships transport supplies to oil platforms in deep ocean waters, including food, fuel, and drilling equipment. Captains navigate the ship safely to offshore rigs using maps, charts, and electronic equipment. The loading and unloading of supplies onto the drilling platform or barge is their responsibility.
Captains of cargo ships may be at sea for extended periods of time, with a break in between voyages. They may be in charge of large crews of sailors and deckhands who perform maintenance and cargo handling. The captain directs the vessel’s course and speed, assists in the safe loading and unloading of cargo into the hold, and ensures that goods are not damaged.