Job Summary
The Boat Captain is responsible for the safe, lawful, and efficient operation of all Coral Reef Park Company (CRPC) vessels. This position oversees navigation, crew management, and guest safety during snorkel, dive, and glass-bottom boat excursions.
The Captain ensures full compliance with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and National Marine Sanctuary (NMS) regulations while maintaining the highest standards of customer service and operational excellence. The Captain leads and mentors crew members, upholds CRPC’s mission and safety standards, and ensures that all guests enjoy a secure and memorable experience.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Vessel Operation & Navigation
- Operate vessels in accordance with all USCG, DNR, and NMS regulations and CRPC policies.
- Conduct pre-departure inspections of vessel systems, safety equipment, fuel, and passenger areas.
- Ensure proper docking, mooring, and anchoring of vessels at all times.
- Monitor weather and sea conditions; cancel or adjust trips as needed for safety.
- Maintain all required vessel documentation, logs, licenses, and inspection reports.
- Ensure safe fueling, pump-out, and maintenance procedures.
- Maintain the cleanliness and operational readiness of the vessel daily.
Crew Supervision & Leadership
- Supervise, train, and evaluate crew members, including mates, snorkel guides, and deckhands.
- Assign duties and ensure safe and efficient crew performance.
- Ensure all crew are properly uniformed and groomed (clean-shaven, hair above collar, tidy appearance).
- Conduct crew safety briefings before each trip and review emergency procedures.
- Approve crew overtime and verify timesheets in a timely manner.
- Promote teamwork, discipline, and professionalism among all marine staff.
Guest Service & Safety
- Conduct passenger safety briefings prior to departure, including: Introduction of captain and crew, Destination and trip details, Review of National Marine Sanctuary rules, Life vest and safety procedures, Sea sickness precautions, No-smoking and no-alcohol policy, Marine life and reef etiquette
- Ensure passengers comply with all safety regulations throughout the trip.
- Supervise swimmers and snorkelers at the reef, enforcing all DNR and NMS safety standards.
- Respond promptly to passenger questions, emergencies, or complaints with professionalism and care.
- Provide accurate, educational, and engaging narration about coral reefs and marine environments.
Maintenance & Compliance
- Coordinate vessel repairs and maintenance schedules with management and the maintenance team.
- Maintain a current ongoing maintenance log (daily, weekly, monthly, yearly) for each vessel.
- Ensure all required inspections, including USCG safety and hull inspections, are completed on schedule.
- Oversee proper disposal of trash, boat parts, and fuel waste.
- Ensure adherence to environmental protection protocols and company policies.
- Verify that all boat papers (ownership, license, USCG certifications, drug tests, etc.) are current and onboard.
Administrative & Communication
- Maintain detailed records including trip manifests, passenger counts, fueling logs, and maintenance activities.
- Communicate clearly with management regarding scheduling, mechanical issues, and safety concerns.
- Complete required reports, including accident or incident documentation.
- Make all radio communications in compliance with FCC regulations.
Experience
- Minimum of 2 years of experience operating commercial passenger or charter vessels.
- Previous experience as a dive, snorkel, or tour boat captain preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to supervise crew and ensure safety compliance.
- Experience managing marine maintenance and guest relations in a recreational or tourism setting.
Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Minimum 50-Ton Merchant Marine Officer’s License (OUPV or higher) — radar endorsement preferred.
- Valid Radio Operator’s License and PADI Dive Master certification preferred.
- Current CPR, First Aid, and Medical Training certification required.
- Valid Florida driver’s license and clean driving record.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or possess valid work authorization.
- Must successfully pass CRPC’s company-administered drug test.
- Excellent knowledge of coral reefs, marine life, and local waters.
- Strong ability to lead, train, and command respect from crew and passengers.
- Exceptional judgment in safety, navigation, and emergency response.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and courteously with the public.
- Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and in varying weather conditions.
Attributes of a Successful Captain
- Demonstrates strong leadership and the ability to direct and motivate a crew.
- Builds effective working relationships with crew, management, and guests.
- Represents the company professionally to the public and partners.
- Displays sound judgment and decision-making under pressure.
- Communicates clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Plans and organizes daily activities efficiently and ensures team accountability.
- Maintains high standards of safety, cleanliness, and professionalism.
- Displays a positive attitude and supports company goals and values.
- Anticipates operational needs and responds proactively to challenges.
- Promotes teamwork and encourages open communication and cooperation across departments.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $28.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- Padi Dive Master Certification (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Key Largo, FL 33037 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
