What are the responsibilities and job description for the Seasonal Passenger and Vehicle Ferry Boat Captain position at Beaver Island Boat Company?
Seasonal Ferry Captain – Beaver Island Boat Company
Lead the fleet across the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan this summer!
Looking for an experienced Captain to join our 2026 summer crew. This is your opportunity to captain passenger and vehicle ferries on one of the most beautiful routes in the Great Lakes.
Your office? The wheelhouse with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and America’s Emerald Isle.
Job Title: Seasonal Ferry Captain
Reports to: General Manager & Senior Captain
Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day (approximately mid-May to early September)
Location: Charlevoix, MI (with frequent runs to Beaver Island)
Position Summary
As Master of our vessels (≤100 gross tons), you will be fully responsible for the safe, professional, and courteous operation of the ferry. You’ll ensure the safety of passengers, crew, vehicles, and freight while delivering exceptional customer service on every crossing.
Some overnight and weekend stays on Beaver Island will be required.
Key Responsibilities
- Command the vessel in full compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations, Rules of the Road, and company policies.
- Ensure the safety of all passengers, crew, cargo, and the vessel at all times.
- Supervise loading and unloading of passengers, vehicles, and freight.
- Monitor conditions and adjust operations during heavy weather or unusual situations.
- Deliver outstanding customer service and enforce company policies professionally.
- Maintain vessel cleanliness and order.
- Review trip paperwork for accuracy.
- Promptly report mechanical issues and communicate effectively with the Senior Captain, Maintenance team, and Dock Manager.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications (Required)
- U.S. Coast Guard Master license for vessels of at least 100 gross tons.
- Thorough working knowledge of maritime laws and USCG regulations for passenger vessels.
- Valid FCC Radio Operator’s License.
- Current Red Cross First Aid and CPR certification.
- Forklift operator certification (experience maneuvering in tight spaces preferred).
- Valid driver’s license with proven ability to operate vehicles with standard transmissions, including farm tractors and dump trucks.
- Strong physical condition: able to lift 100 lbs, agile (including emergency vehicle exit through window), stable and athletic in rough weather, and unaffected by motion sickness.
- Excellent vision and hearing.
- Mechanical awareness — able to detect potential issues by sound, vibration, smell, or exhaust color.
- Demonstrated skill in piloting, vessel handling, and all related safety/mechanical systems (Senior Captain certification required upon hire).
- Personable, calm under pressure, decisive, and team-oriented with strong interpersonal skills.
Preferred: 3 years of experience as a licensed Captain.
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly pay (recent average ~$27/hr).
- Housing assistance.
- The best “office” views on the Great Lakes.
- Opportunity to live and work in a unique island community.
- A tight-knit team dedicated to safe, courteous, and reliable service.
Company Mission
To provide passengers and freight shippers with transportation that is safe, convenient, comfortable, reasonably priced, and courteously rendered; to provide employees with a safe, fair, and rewarding work environment; and to deliver a reasonable return to our shareholders.
Ready to captain one of the most unique ferry routes in the country?
Please send your resume, cover letter, and copies of your current USCG license and certifications to: Manager@bibco.com
Applications can also be dropped off at our Charlevoix office: 103 Bridge Park Drive, Charlevoix, MI 49720.
Beaver Island Boat Company is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary
Pay: $26.00 - $29.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- What is your most liked part of being a captain?
Experience:
- Vessels over 75 feet : 3 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Charlevoix, MI 49720 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $26 - $29