How Much Do Cruise Ship Captains Make Per Year?

By Michael Ferguson

Cruise Ship Captains are some of the most important people on a cruise ship, responsible for the safety and welfare of thousands of passengers and crew. As such, it’s no surprise that Cruise Ship Captains make a very competitive salary.

The exact salary of a Cruise Ship Captain will depend on many factors, including the size of the cruise line, how many passengers they carry, and whether their ships are flagged in the United States or abroad. Generally speaking, though, Cruise Ship Captains can expect to make anywhere from $60,000 to well over $200,000 per year.

At the lower end of the pay scale are Captains who work for smaller cruise lines or those who sail less-luxurious ships. These Captains might make as little as $60,000 per year.

On the other hand, Captains working for larger lines with more luxurious vessels might make as much as $250,000 annually. Additionally, their salary may be higher if they sail to exotic locations or have multiple ships that they manage simultaneously.

In addition to their base salary, Cruise Ship Captains may also receive bonuses based on performance or incentives like medical coverage and retirement benefits. In addition to these financial incentives, captains also have an opportunity to gain valuable experience while working at sea and can often move up in rank and responsibility over time.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Cruise Ship Captains make a very competitive salary depending on their experience level and the size of their employer’s fleet. The average Captain can expect to make anywhere from $60,000-$250,000 per year in base pay plus bonuses and other benefits.