Captain – Coastal & River Cruise Leader | Elite Training

American Cruise Lines; Savannah (GA); On-site; USD 111,000 - 221,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision

401(k) with match

Simulator-based training

Travel, room and board coverage

Job summary

American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet on inland and coastal waterways across the East Coast, Alaska, Great Lakes, and major rivers. Captains ensure safety, compliance, and exemplary guest service on vessels designed for 100–200 guests.

As master mariners, Captains mentor deck officers, coordinate with engineers, and uphold our standards of excellence. This full-time role includes onboard accommodations, meals, and access to advanced simulator-based training.

Qualifications

• U.S. Coast Guard Master’s license with 100 GRT Near Coastal endorsement; 1,600 GRT+ preferred.
• TWIC credential.
• Captain experience on coastal and river waterways: 2+ years; 5+ years preferred; Z-drive experience desired.
• Excellent communication and team-building skills.
• Pre-employment drug test and ongoing random testing.
• Great Lakes route familiarity including St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Marys River, and port routes in Lake Ontario/Erie/Huron/Michigan.
• Ability to live and work aboard for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
• Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
• Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
• Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
• Oversee Shipboard Engineer.
• Coordinate major engineering repairs with port engineers.
• Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
• Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
• Provide visible leadership through announcements, rounds, and guest interaction.

Skills

Captain leadership

Crew supervision

Vessel operations

Coast Guard Licensed

Education

U.S. Coast Guard Master’s license

Job description

American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet on inland and coastal waterways across the East Coast, Alaska, Great Lakes, and major rivers. Captains ensure safety, compliance, and exemplary guest service on vessels designed for 100–200 guests.

As master mariners, Captains mentor deck officers, coordinate with engineers, and uphold our standards of excellence. This full-time role includes onboard accommodations, meals, and access to advanced simulator-based training.