How Much Do Cruise Ship Captains Earn?

By Alice Nichols

Cruise ship captains are the ultimate authority on a cruise ship. Not only do they have to make sure that the ship is running smoothly, but they also are responsible for the safety of all passengers and crew onboard. So how much do cruise ship captains earn?

The salary of a cruise ship captain can vary greatly depending on the company and the size of the vessel. According to Maritime Professional, captains of smaller vessels can earn anywhere from $60,000 to $120,000 per year.

Captains of larger ships, such as those employed by Carnival Cruise Lines or Royal Caribbean Cruises, can earn up to $150,000 annually. Additionally, some cruise lines offer bonuses based on performance and length of employment that can reach tens of thousands of dollars per year.

Apart from their salary, captains also receive many benefits such as free travel and accommodation onboard the vessel, health insurance and retirement plans. Some cruise lines also provide their captains with incentive programs like vacation days or other perks.

In addition to their salary, captains also receive other benefits such as discounts on food and drinks in onboard restaurants or bars. They are also provided with special privileges when it comes to accessing certain areas onboard such as crew cabins or special events.

Being a captain of a cruise ship is no easy job – it requires strong leadership skills and experience in marine navigation and management. It is not a job for everyone but for those who choose it as a career path it can be rewarding both financially and personally.

Conclusion: In conclusion, how much do cruise ship captains earn? The answer depends on the company they work for and the size of the vessel they are in charge of but they can generally expect to make anywhere from $60,000 – $150,000 annually plus additional incentives based on performance or length of employment with some cruise lines offering bonuses reaching tens of thousands in dollars each year. In addition to their salary they also receive numerous benefits such as free travel and accommodation onboard the vessel, health insurance and retirement plans plus discounts on food and drinks in onboard restaurants or bars amongst other privileges unique to this profession.