Vessel Operations - Captain

Looking for a wheelhouse job that actually goes somewhere?

 
Harbor Boating, Inc. is hiring Captains to operate commercial passenger vessels on Baltimore Harbor.

This role is a great fit for a newly licensed Captain looking for a solid point of entry into commercial passenger operations, an experienced operator ready for a change, a retired Captain looking for supplemental income, or a seasonal mariner who wants an East Coast stop with flexible work options. Your current draft also supports offering full-time, part-time, and seasonal opportunities, while the current formal Captain job description identifies the position as non-exempt, hourly, and part-time, so you may want to align those before posting.

 
About Harbor Boating, Inc.

Harbor Boating, Inc. operates a range of transportation and hospitality services on Baltimore Harbor, including: 

• Harbor Connector: Baltimore’s free public water transportation service and an extension of the Charm City Circulator.
• Baltimore Water Trolley: A ticketed transportation and entertainment experience with onboard music and stories.
• Baltimore Water Taxi: Our on-demand water transportation offering, designed as an Uber-like service on the water.
• Baltimore Water Charters: Private boat experiences for small groups, celebrations, and custom events.
• Baltimore Water Cruises: Public ticketed harbor cruises and curated experiences on the water.

Why this job stands out

 
This is not just a job required by a license. It is a chance to run real passenger operations in one of the most visible maritime settings in the region.

 
Captains at Harbor Boating, Inc. lead crew, manage safety, represent the brand, and help deliver everything from public transportation to private entertainment experiences. It is a hands-on role for someone who takes pride in seamanship, leadership, professionalism, and guest experience.

 
What does a Captain do?

 
A Captain is the senior navigational officer aboard a commercial passenger vessel and the person ultimately responsible for the safe, compliant, and professional operation of the vessel and crew.

 
In this role, you are responsible for vessel command, crew oversight, regulatory compliance, operational readiness, emergency preparedness, and passenger experience. You are also the front-line representative of Harbor Boating, Inc. while underway.

 
What you’ll do

 
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Assume full command of the vessel and crew during all phases of operation
• Operate vessels in accordance with USCG, DOT, OSHA, and company requirements
• Navigate safely through assigned routes, waterways, and docking areas
• Conduct and document pre-departure, underway, and post-voyage inspections
• Lead onboard safety briefings, drills, and emergency response actions
• Maintain accurate logs, reports, and required operational documentation
• Supervise Deckhands and onboard crew during the assigned watch
• Maintain standards for safety, appearance, guest service, and professionalism
• Communicate clearly with passengers and provide a positive onboard experience
• Perform light vessel maintenance and report issues needing escalation
• Support fueling, provisioning, and secure end-of-shift shutdown procedures
• Carry out additional duties assigned by the Team Leader or management

Leadership and compliance

 
Strong Captains do more than drive the boat.

 
They set the tone for the crew, make sound decisions under pressure, reinforce standards, mentor junior crewmembers, and help create a culture of safety, accountability, and professionalism. Your uploaded draft also emphasizes continuous improvement, crew development, and regulatory compliance across OSHA, USCG, and DOT requirements.

 
Minimum requirements

 
To be considered, candidates should have:

• A valid USCG Captain’s License for passenger operations, Master, Inland Waters, 50 GRT or higher
• A valid TWIC
• Current CPR and First Aid certification
• A valid state-issued driver’s license
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to pass mandatory DOT/USCG drug and alcohol screening and applicable background checks
• Ability to tread water unassisted for at least 5 minutes
• Ability to lift 40 pounds and work safely on docks and vessels in variable marine conditions
• Strong communication, leadership, conflict-resolution, and decision-making skills
• Comfort working outdoors in changing weather and active marine environments

Preferred qualifications

 
This role is especially attractive for candidates who bring:

• Two or more years of commercial passenger vessel operating experience
• Experience operating passenger vessels of 50 GRT
• Leadership or supervisory experience in maritime or transportation settings
• Customer service or hospitality experience
• Strong judgment, professionalism, and calm communication
• Experience with conflict de-escalation and working with the public

Benefits

• Part-Time employees receive Sick Leave
• Full-Time employees receive PTO
• After the first year, eligible employees may receive Medical, Dental, and 401(k) benefits

Work schedule and environment

 
Captains work aboard commercial passenger vessels in Baltimore Harbor and surrounding waterways. The role requires variable scheduling, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special-event support. It is an active, outdoor job that involves radios, navigation tools, digital logs, passenger interaction, and physical movement on docks and vessels.

 
Who should apply?

You may be a great fit if you are:

• A newly licensed Captain looking for commercial passenger vessel time
• An experienced Captain ready for a more dynamic guest-facing operation
• A retired Captain who still wants to stay on the water
• A seasonal boater or mariner looking for flexible work in Baltimore
• A strong leader who values safety, professionalism, and customer experience

Equal Employment Opportunity

Harbor Boating, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.

Salary : $20 - $30