Hiring a Yacht Captain in Florida: Complete Guide
Published February 5, 2026 • 8 min read
Whether you need someone to run your yacht full-time or just for a weekend trip to the Bahamas, finding the right captain is crucial. Here's everything Florida yacht owners need to know about hiring professional captains.
When Do You Need a Captain?
Not sure if you need professional crew? Consider hiring a captain when:
- Your yacht is over 50 feet (handling and docking complexity increases)
- You're crossing to the Bahamas or doing offshore passages
- You want to entertain guests without worrying about navigation
- Insurance requires a licensed captain for certain waters
- You're new to yachting and want to learn from an expert
- You need someone to maintain and move the yacht while you're away
USCG License Requirements
The U.S. Coast Guard issues credentials for professional captains. Here's what matters:
OUPV (Six-Pack License)
- Allows carrying up to 6 passengers for hire
- Valid for vessels up to 100 gross tons
- Minimum requirement for most day-charter captains
Master License (25, 50, 100 Ton)
- Allows carrying more than 6 passengers
- Tonnage limit corresponds to vessel size
- Required for larger yachts and commercial operations
Additional Endorsements to Look For
- Sail endorsement — If you have a sailing yacht
- Towing endorsement — For tenders or water toys
- Assistance towing — Can help stranded vessels
- STCW certification — International safety training standard
⚠️ Always Verify Credentials
Ask for the captain's MMC (Merchant Mariner Credential) and verify it's current. You can check license status at the USCG National Maritime Center.
Typical Captain Costs in South Florida
Day Rate (Daily Hire)
| Yacht Size | Day Rate Range |
|---|---|
| 40-50 feet | $400-$600/day |
| 50-70 feet | $500-$800/day |
| 70-100 feet | $600-$1,000/day |
| 100+ feet | $800-$1,500+/day |
Full-Time Captain Salaries
| Position | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Captain (50-80 ft) | $60,000-$90,000 |
| Captain (80-120 ft) | $84,000-$144,000 |
| Captain (120+ ft superyacht) | $144,000-$300,000+ |
*Full-time captains typically receive room and board in addition to salary
Where to Find Qualified Captains
- Crew agencies — Luxury Yacht Group, Crew4Yachts, Dockwalk
- Your yacht broker — Often maintains captain referral lists
- Marina recommendations — Dockmasters know local talent
- Captain associations — Professional Captain's Association
- Online platforms — CrewBay, YachtCrewLink
- Yacht management companies — We can help source qualified captains
What to Look For Beyond Licenses
Experience That Matters
- Similar yacht type and size to yours
- Familiarity with your cruising grounds (ICW, Bahamas, Keys)
- Relevant systems knowledge (your engine type, electronics)
- Emergency situation experience
Soft Skills
- Communication style that matches your expectations
- Discretion and professionalism with guests
- Flexibility with schedules
- Problem-solving attitude
References
Always check references. Ask previous employers about:
- Reliability and punctuality
- How they handled emergencies
- Interaction with guests and other crew
- Yacht condition under their care
- Why they left the position
Employment vs. Independent Contractor
This is a critical distinction with legal and financial implications:
W-2 Employee
- You control when, where, and how they work
- You're responsible for payroll taxes, workers' comp
- Provides more control but more administrative burden
- Required for full-time, exclusive captains
1099 Independent Contractor
- Captain runs their own business, works for multiple clients
- They handle their own taxes and insurance
- Appropriate for occasional day-hire situations
- Less administrative work for you
⚠️ Misclassification Warning
The IRS takes worker misclassification seriously. If you treat someone like an employee but pay them as a contractor, you could face significant penalties. When in doubt, consult a maritime employment attorney.
Insurance Considerations
Make sure you're covered:
- Verify your policy allows hired captains — Some require specific notification
- Captain should have their own liability insurance — Standard for professionals
- Workers' compensation — Required if employing crew in Florida
- Jones Act considerations — Federal law protecting maritime workers
Interview Questions to Ask
- What's your experience with [your yacht's make/model]?
- Describe a difficult situation at sea and how you handled it.
- How do you handle yacht maintenance and what's your documentation approach?
- What's your availability for the next 6-12 months?
- Can you provide three references from yacht owners?
- What certifications do you hold beyond USCG license?
- Are you comfortable with our cruising plans to [destination]?
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unwilling to provide references or verify credentials
- Gaps in employment history they can't explain
- Bad-mouthing previous employers excessively
- Unrealistic promises about fuel economy, speed, etc.
- Resistance to drug testing
- Poor communication during the hiring process
Need Help Finding a Captain?
Elite Yacht Care maintains relationships with qualified, vetted captains throughout South Florida. We can help match you with the right professional for your yacht and needs.
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