Q&A for How to Become a Cruise Ship Captain

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What is the average salary of a cruise ship captain?

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There is no set salary, it varies based on who you work for, how long you have been working, and what vessel you control. You could expect anywhere from $100,000-$300,000 in some places.

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Question

How can a woman be a cruise ship captain?

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They can be a cruise ship captain in the same way that men can. They would need the proper training, and can get hired and work their way up through the ranks.

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Can I become a captain if my English not good?

Community Answer

No, you cannot -- English is the primary language used for communication between crew members and other vessels.

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Question

What degree do I need?

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You will need at least a high school diploma; a college degree is preferred.

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Question

Will I automatically become a captain after I graduate, or do I have to work my way up from the bottom?

Community Answer

You usually have to start at the bottom. The ranking structure is generally third, second and chief officers, followed by the master or captain rank.

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Question

Do I need to know about maps to become a cruise ship captain?

Community Answer

Yes. The captain of a cruise ship is just like any other ship captain, and they are required to manage the crew, navigate the ship and maintain order.

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Do I need excellent eyesight to become a cruise ship captain?

Community Answer

Yes, you do.

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Question

How do I become a cruise ship captain out of high school?

Community Answer

You can't. Even if you have significant experience in the maritime industry, no one will hire you without the correct credentials and credible experience.

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How would I become a captain living in a landlocked country?

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You would need to move. Most captains live by the sea. You would want to move to a country with a cruise line. I recommend Norway.

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What is the purpose of the marine deck?

Community Answer

The marine deck is the nickname for the area of a ship where the marines, or navy soldiers, were quartered.

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Question

What do I do if I want to become a cruise ship captain after high school?

Community Answer

You need to apply to a maritime academy or university. These include Maine, Great Lakes, Texas A&M, Merchant Marine Academy, Massachusetts, etc. You should also get a part time job on any vessel.

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Question

How long should a captain stay with a liner?

Community Answer

It's completely up to the captain, just like with any other job. Some people prefer to settle into a company for a lifetime while others like to hop around and explore different opportunities.

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Does a cruise ship captain need to know how to swim?

Community Answer

While it may not be a necessity for being hired, it's a valuable skill to have in case of the unlikely event of something happening to the ship, and it would help boost your confidence when aboard.

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Question

Do I need to know more than one language to become a cruise ship captain?

Community Answer

It varies on your vessel and country you are going to. It is preferred that you can speak English and Spanish.

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Question

How many marks should I get if I want to become a captain?

Community Answer

100/100, you need to perfectly ace the exam to even be considered as a hire on a cruise ship.

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