Average Ship Captain Salary

$111,945
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$62k
MEDIAN
$112k
90%
$216k

The average salary for a Ship Captain is $111,945 in 2025

Base Salary
$62k - $216k
Bonus
$790 - $23k
Total Pay
$52k - $196k
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What Do Ship Captains Do?

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How do Ship Captains Rate Their Jobs?

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Highly Satisfied
6Reviews
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FAQs About Ship Captains

What is the highest pay for Ship Captains?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Ship Captain is $216k / year

What is the lowest pay for Ship Captains?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Ship Captain is $62k / year

How can Ship Captains increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Ship Captain is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Ship Captain that oversees more junior Ship Captains, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.