Why Become a Captain? Exploring the Benefits of a USCG License

by Bob Figular May 02, 2024

Exploring the Motivations Behind Obtaining a Captain's License

Who would want to get their captain’s license?

If you're considering becoming a boat captain, you're not alone. Every year, thousands of individuals apply to the Coast Guard to earn their captain's license. The growing number of people pursuing this certification speaks to the prestige and appeal of becoming a licensed captain.

People from all walks of life choose to earn their USCG license, including but not limited to:

Boaters looking to enhance their resume and become licensed experts
Divers seeking to expand their opportunities
Sail boaters and power boaters eager to take their skills to the next level
Retirees exploring a rewarding second career

📖 You can find out what other people use their captain’s licenses for here.

What do people do with their captain’s license?

Once you earn your captain's license, the opportunities available to you are endless! Whether personal or commercial, it all depends on what you want to pursue.

Some common activities for boat captains include:

Hosting fishing parties
Leading dinner or sightseeing cruises
Operating tour boats, charter boats, and diving boats
Organizing other maritime events or services

What opportunities exist for commercial captains?

Commercial captains have access to a variety of career opportunities, such as:

Yacht Deliveries: Delivering yachts can be a lucrative venture, as transporting boats overland, especially those over 8 feet wide, can be extremely costly. Water transport offers a more affordable solution for yacht deliveries.
Fishing Boats for Hire: Headboats, or party boats, are popular for charging per person on fishing excursions. This type of commercial operation can be quite profitable for licensed captains.
Water Taxis: Water taxi operations are always in need of additional captains. While the pay might not be the highest, it’s an excellent entry-level opportunity to gain experience and build your career in the marine industry.
Sea Trials: Boat brokers and dealers often hire licensed captains to conduct sea trials for prospective buyers. This is a great opportunity for captains who enjoy testing boats and interacting with potential customers.
Instructing: New boat owners often need instruction on how to operate their vessels safely. Experienced captains can offer this training, providing both a service and a source of income.

🎥 Does this sound like a path you would be interested in? Watch this video on how to become a USCG-licensed ship captain!

Why are yacht deliveries an opportunity for commercial captains?

Yacht deliveries present a lucrative opportunity for commercial captains. Transporting boats overland, especially those wider than 8 feet, can be incredibly expensive due to the need for special permits, equipment, and logistics. By delivering yachts via water, captains provide a more cost-effective solution for boat owners, making it a desirable option. As a captain, you can capitalize on this need by offering yacht delivery services, which can be a profitable and consistent source of income.

Why are fishing boats an opportunity for commercial captains?

Fishing boats for hire, commonly known as headboats or party boats, offer a lucrative opportunity for commercial captains. These boats charge per person, allowing captains to manage larger groups of anglers while providing a steady income stream. By operating these boats, captains can take advantage of high demand, especially in popular fishing destinations, and build a thriving business. It's a great way to combine a love for the water with the potential for consistent earnings, making it an attractive option for those holding a commercial captain’s license.

Why are water taxis an opportunity for commercial captains?

Becoming a commercial captain for a water taxi is an excellent way to get started in the marine industry. While it may not offer the highest pay, water taxi services are in constant need of extra captains to meet the demands of busy routes. This makes it a valuable entry point for gaining experience, building a reputation, and expanding your network in the maritime community. Working as a water taxi captain provides great local knowledge and the chance to advance to higher-paying opportunities as you gain more experience and establish yourself in the industry.

Why are sea trials an opportunity for commercial captains?

Sea trials offer a valuable opportunity for commercial captains to earn income while gaining experience. Boat brokers and dealers often hire licensed captains to conduct sea trials for potential buyers, allowing them to evaluate the boat's performance in real-world conditions. For a commercial captain, this is a great way to work with a variety of vessels, gain exposure to different boat types, and develop your expertise in handling them. It's a lucrative and flexible option, and it can help you build relationships within the boating industry that could lead to more job opportunities in the future.

Why is instructing an opportunity for commercial captains?

Instructing is an excellent opportunity for commercial captains, as many new boat owners are eager to learn how to operate their vessels safely and effectively. Experienced captains can offer valuable instruction on navigation, boat handling, safety procedures, and other essential skills. By providing personalized training on their own boats, captains help ensure that new owners feel confident and competent on the water. Not only does this generate income, but it also helps captains build a reputation as trusted experts, potentially leading to more opportunities for instruction and mentorship in the future.

Where can I find a job to use my captain’s license?

The best way to find quality jobs in the marine industry is often through word of mouth. Many of the most desirable positions are never advertised, so networking and building relationships within the industry can be key to uncovering opportunities.

Boat brokers are another valuable resource for finding delivery and instructor work. They can connect you with clients in need of experienced captains for various maritime tasks.

Starting out as a mate is also a great way to get your foot in the door. Working as a mate will provide you with valuable local knowledge and help you become familiar with the ports and marinas in your area. This experience can eventually lead to opportunities to step up into the wheelhouse and operate the vessel as the captain.

📖 You can find out more opportunities for commercial captains here.