What’s a Yacht Captain?

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A yacht captain is an individual responsible for the operation of a large sailboat or yacht. This individual is employed by the boat owner or a management company representing the boat owner. The yacht’s captain oversees all aspects of operating and maintaining the vessel, including managing the crew and piloting the vessel. This leaves the owner free to enjoy their time on the yacht or to come and go from the boat as needed. A yacht captain can work on a private yacht or charter vessel, depending on experience and available positions.

Future yacht captains must have a true love for the sea, as they spend a lot of time on board the ship. Many rise from the deck hand or maintenance positions to reach the rank of yacht captain. This allows the candidate to accumulate the experience hours needed to obtain state and federal licenses in multiple countries. Some gain experience with commercial shipping jobs, while others work strictly on pleasure craft. A yacht captain can also gain experience through working in the military, such as the Coast Guard or the United States (US) Navy.

In the US and many other developed countries, people employed on boats must obtain licenses from the local state or county. This involves recording hours on a ship and keeping a written record of those hours. Once the registration is submitted along with an application, the candidate may also be required to pass a written test in some areas. Most regions require applicants to work at multiple license levels before reaching the yacht captain level.

A yacht captain is generally qualified to work on a specific size and type of boat. Many people will work on smaller vessels first and then gradually work on yachts and superyachts. This may also include promotions from the hand of the deck to management positions, including chief or engineer.

Yacht captains must be prepared to handle a range of responsibilities. This includes interacting with the owner and his guests and working with the team to provide top-notch service. It also requires management of all employees, often with the assistance of other officials. The yacht’s captain also pilots the vessel and schedules all maintenance to ensure the boat is always ready for use. He should also have a basic understanding of mechanical principles to assist engineering personnel in repairs or emergencies.

Those interested in a career at sea should be prepared to spend months or even an entire year living on a yacht. Most yacht captains are paid year-round, regardless of whether the vessel is in use. When not at sea, the captain must still manage the boat and handle painting and repairs. For all this responsibility, yacht captains enjoy a high salary potential, as well as the possibility of significant tips or charter vessels.

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