How Much Salary Does a Cruise Ship Captain Make?

By Michael Ferguson

A cruise ship captain is a highly-trained and experienced mariner who is responsible for the overall operations of a cruise ship. Cruise ship captains have the ultimate authority aboard their vessel and are responsible for ensuring the safety of their passengers, crew, and cargo. They are also responsible for the navigation of their vessel, compliance with all maritime regulations, and communication with other vessels, ports, and authorities.

In order to become a cruise ship captain, one must have extensive experience in commercial shipping. Captains must be knowledgeable in all aspects of ship operations and navigation and be certified by a recognized maritime organization. Additionally, many cruise lines require captains to hold a degree from an accredited maritime college or university.

The salary of a cruise ship captain varies depending on experience level and the size and type of vessel being operated. Generally speaking, captains can expect to earn between $40,000 – $200,000 per year. Captains who operate larger vessels or those with more complicated itineraries may earn higher salaries.

In addition to salary, many cruise lines offer additional benefits such as health insurance, vacation time, travel allowances, bonus payouts, and more. Some cruise lines also offer additional training programs that can qualify captains for higher salaries.

Conclusion:

Cruise ship captains are highly trained professionals with ultimate authority over their ships. Cruise ship captains typically earn between $40k – $200k per year depending on their experience level and vessel size. In addition to salary they may have access to additional benefits like health insurance or bonus payouts.