Cruise ship captains are the ultimate leaders of the sea, commanding massive vessels full of passengers and crew. But how much do they make?
The salary of a cruise ship captain depends on many factors, such as their experience and the size of the ship they’re captaining. According to Glassdoor, a Captain’s salary can range from $56,000 to nearly $200,000 per year.
The most experienced captains command the largest ships and tend to make more money. Junior officers typically start in a range of $50,000 – $90,000 per year and increase as they gain experience.
Captains on larger vessels may receive bonuses for successful cruises as well as special compensation for serving as a relief captain or working in hazardous areas such as Alaska or the Caribbean.
In addition to salary, cruise ship captains can enjoy benefits such as free meals and lodging while on board their ships. They also have access to discounted travel for themselves and their families.
In order to become a cruise ship captain one must first obtain a Coast Guard-approved license. A bachelor’s degree in maritime studies is also helpful when it comes to obtaining such a license. Additionally, captains must be able to demonstrate knowledge of maritime regulations and safety procedures.
Conclusion:
A top cruise ship captain can make anywhere from $56,000 to nearly $200,000 per year depending on their experience level and the size of the vessel they are commanding. To become a cruise ship captain one must obtain a Coast Guard-approved license and demonstrate knowledge of maritime regulations and safety procedures.