Ferry driver

What does a ferry captain do? – Tasks and work environment

A ferry captain is responsible for operating and navigating ferries across waterways, often between islands or between mainland and islands. Tasks include not only steering the ferry but also safety inspections, loading and unloading vehicles and passengers, and continuous oversight of technical systems onboard. Ferry captains work closely with other crew members and bear significant responsibility for onboard safety, including evacuation procedures and first aid if needed. The work environment is characterized by changing weather conditions, shift work, and often inconvenient hours, which demand good stress tolerance and flexibility.

Salary development over time

Ferry captains have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,600 SEK per month, increasing to 48 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 50 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 6.1% over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified ferry captains, as well as more complex tasks with modern onboard systems. Higher education requirements and increased safety standards have also contributed to raising salary levels. The stability of the industry, combined with a relatively small workforce, helps keep salaries competitive.

Ferry captain salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 44,900 SEK/month (men), 48,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 55,300 SEK/month (men), 54,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 304 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 50 500 SEK, specific female salaries are reported but slightly lower on average
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but specific regional data is lacking

Education and qualifications

To work as a ferry captain, both theoretical and practical maritime training are required. The most common route is to attend maritime education at the upper secondary or post-secondary level, supplemented with specific certificates and practical experience. The education covers navigation, safety, machinery, and leadership. Practical sea experience is often a requirement, and many employers prefer candidates with qualifications that enable them to act as ship officers.

• Formal education: Maritime programs at upper secondary or post-secondary levels (2–4 years)
• Certificates: Class VIII ship officer license or higher, engineering officer license Class VIII
• Practical experience: Mandatory sea time/internship onboard
• Prerequisites: Passing grades in Swedish, mathematics, and English
• Tips for choosing: Opt for programs with high practical content and industry collaboration

Common benefits and compensations

Ferry captains are often covered by collective agreements that provide additional compensation for inconvenient working hours, overtime pay, and holiday allowances. Many employers also offer wellness contributions, pension schemes, and sometimes opportunities for further training or certification courses. Travel and meals may be subsidized depending on the ferry route's location.

Competition and challenges

The competition for ferry captain positions is generally moderate, but since the profession belongs to a smaller workforce, the availability of job openings can vary significantly by region and season. Challenges include managing shift work, working in adverse weather conditions, and ensuring passenger and vehicle safety. Technological developments mean ferry captains must stay updated on new navigation systems and safety procedures. Physical endurance and stress resilience are crucial, especially during busy periods with high traffic.

Tips for aspiring ferry captains

To succeed as a ferry captain, it helps to combine technical interest with a sense of responsibility and good service skills. Structured problem-solving is valuable during unforeseen events onboard, while communication skills facilitate teamwork with colleagues and passengers. Flexibility is key, as workdays can vary depending on weather and traffic. Being stress-resistant and able to make quick decisions under pressure are vital for safety. Precision and attention to detail are necessary for navigation and equipment maintenance. Initiative is useful for staying updated on new safety procedures and technology. Finally, a genuine interest in maritime work and people makes it easier to thrive in the role over time.

Key facts about ferry captains

• Education level: Post-secondary education and certificates required
• Work environment: Shift work, outdoor and onboard work
• Employment type: Usually employed by shipping companies or regional transportation authorities
• Available jobs: 412 within the profession including ship officers
• Demand: No exact forecast, but stable demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a ferry captain, opportunities open for more advanced roles within maritime operations, such as mate, captain, or safety trainer. Further education and additional certificates can lead to larger vessels or international routes. According to statistics from the Swedish Public Employment Service, there are currently 412 available jobs within the ship officer profession, including ferry captains. The outlook is uncertain, as the profession is relatively niche, and no specific forecasts are available for ferry captains. Overall, the industry is considered stable, though regional differences in demand may occur depending on ferry traffic volume and investments in water-based public transport.

Common questions about ferry captains

• What does a ferry captain earn?
  - The average salary for a ferry captain is 50 500 SEK per month.
• How to become a ferry captain?
  - The most common way is to attend maritime education and obtain a Class VIII ship officer certificate.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men generally earn slightly more, but reported salaries for women are also close to those of men.
• What is the job market like for ferry captains?
  - There are approximately 412 available jobs in the profession, with no precise forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the duties of a ferry captain?
  - Navigation, safety checks, loading/unloading, and monitoring technical systems onboard.
• Are special certificates required?
  - Yes, certificates such as a Class VIII ship officer license and sometimes engineering certificates are necessary.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but specific regional data is lacking.