
The Captain’s License Drug Test: A Step-by-Step Guide to Avoiding Application Delays
Learn what questions to ask and how to prepare for a captain’s license drug test to ensure you avoid the most common application delays.
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by Bob Figular May 02, 2024 2 min read
There is no fixed salary for a commercial boat captain, but there are several lucrative opportunities. With a captain’s license, you have the flexibility to pursue a variety of career paths or business ventures. Here are some common opportunities and potential earnings:
Transporting Yachts for Customers: Transporting boats by land can be expensive, making water delivery a cost-effective option. A typical delivery captain can charge between $275 to $475 per day.
Charter Boats or Fishing Charters: Fishing boats that charge per person, known as head boats or party boats, can be quite profitable. A charter boat captain can earn upwards of $625 for a four-hour fishing trip.
Providing Water Taxi Services: While not the highest-paying job, working as a commercial captain for a water taxi can provide steady work and help you build your career.
Conducting Sea Trials: Many boat brokers and dealers hire licensed captains to perform sea trials for potential buyers.
Ferry Boat Captain: A ferry boat captain typically earns between $45,000 to $85,000 or more per year, depending on the region and the size of the ferry operation.
📖 You can find out more opportunities for commercial captains here.
Having a captain's license can help reduce your insurance premiums. Many insurers offer a 10-30% reduction in insurance costs each year for licensed captains. Be sure to reach out to your insurance company for specifics regarding your situation.
The fines can be severe if you operate a boat with paying passengers without a valid captain's license. Fines can reach up to $10,000 per occurrence, and if you are not enrolled in an approved random drug testing program, you could face an additional fine of $5,000 for each day you are found in violation.
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