Sea captain

What does a ship captain do? – Duties and work environment

A ship captain bears the ultimate responsibility for the safe operation of the vessel, the working environment of the crew, and the safety of the cargo. The role includes leading and allocating work onboard, navigating the ship, making decisions in emergencies, and ensuring compliance with laws and international regulations. The work environment is characterized by long periods at sea, shift work, and sometimes high work pace, where leadership and teamwork are crucial for safety onboard. Ship captains often work on cargo ships, passenger ships, or special vessels and have a global work area where work demands can vary depending on the vessel type and shipping company.

Salary development over time

The salary of a ship captain has developed steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,600 SEK per month, then increased to 48 600 SEK in 2023. The positive trend continued in 2024 with an average salary of 50 500 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 6.1 % over the period. The development can be partly explained by high demand for qualified maritime officers, increased responsibilities, and rising educational and technical requirements. The market is also influenced by the development of global shipping and the need for safe and efficient transportation. At the same time, salary increases are somewhat higher than the average for transport professions, reflecting the specialized skills required.

Ship 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 an average of 50 500 SEK, salary data for women is not available on average but the highest/lowest are 48,700–54,900 SEK
• Regional differences: No specific regional differences are indicated, but salaries can vary depending on the shipping company and vessel type

Education and qualifications

To work as a ship captain, extensive maritime education is required, both theoretical and practical. The educational pathway includes a university program for ship captains, supplemented with practical periods and specific certifications. In addition to formal degrees, licensing from the Swedish Transport Agency and continuous skills development are necessary to maintain qualifications.

• Formal degree: Maritime program, 3–4 years at university
• Certifications: Class I maritime officer license from the Swedish Transport Agency
• Practical training: Extensive ship-based practical training during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies and specific requirements in mathematics and physics
• Tips for choosing: Interest in technology, leadership, and maritime affairs is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as free travel home, per diems during international assignments, onboard meals and accommodation, insurance, and pension contributions are often offered. Shipping companies may also offer bonuses, paid leave after longer work periods, and access to wellness allowances.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a ship captain is relatively stable, but the availability of jobs can vary depending on economic cycles and the development of the shipping industry. A challenge is the high requirements for education and licenses, which means few reach the highest officer level. The work environment can be demanding, with long periods away from home, shift work, and responsibility for both crew and cargo. Technological advances and digitalization also demand ongoing skills development. At the same time, the global nature of the work can lead to competition from international colleagues.

Tips for those aspiring to become a ship captain

To succeed as a ship captain, it is good to develop leadership and decisiveness early, as the role requires making quick and correct decisions under pressure. Meticulousness is a key trait, as navigation and safety routines must be followed precisely. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation with the crew and other stakeholders, both onboard and in port. A strong sense of responsibility helps manage the overall responsibility for the vessel and the people onboard. It is also important to be flexible and adaptable, as the work environment and tasks can vary greatly depending on the vessel and route.

Key facts about ship captains

• Education level: University education (3–4 years) with ship-based practical training
• Work environment: International, onboard ships with shift work
• Licensing: Class I maritime officer license from the Swedish Transport Agency
• Available jobs: 412 within the maritime officer profession
• Average salary: 50 500 SEK/month

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a ship captain, there are opportunities to advance to chief mate, master on larger vessels, or take specialist roles within shipping companies, such as safety or training. Some choose to move into land-based positions, such as port captain, inspector, or educator at maritime colleges. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there are currently 412 available jobs within the maritime officer profession, but the future outlook is uncertain due to limited data. The job market is influenced by global shipping trends and the demand for qualified seafarers, which can cause opportunities to fluctuate over time.

Frequently asked questions about ship captains

• What does a ship captain earn?
  - A ship captain has an average salary of 50 500 SEK per month, but the salary can range from 44,900 SEK to 55,300 SEK depending on experience and education.
• How do you become a ship captain?
  - The path goes via the maritime program at university, followed by practical training and certification with the Swedish Transport Agency.
• What is the job market like for ship captains?
  - Currently, there are 412 available jobs within the maritime officer profession, but the future outlook is uncertain.
• What are the job responsibilities of a ship captain?
  - Responsibilities include leading the crew, navigation, safety oversight, and administrative duties onboard.
• What level of education is required?
  - A university degree of 3–4 years with specific maritime licenses and certifications.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries can vary depending on the shipping company and vessel type, but no specific regional differences are indicated.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Leadership, responsibility, meticulousness, and flexibility are key qualities for a ship captain.