Tug Boat Captain salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Tug Boat Captain in United States is approximately 114,447 USD (114,057 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Tug Boat Captain do?

A tugboat captain is responsible for operating and navigating tugboats, which are small but powerful vessels used for towing or pushing larger ships or barges. Their main duty is to safely maneuver these vessels in ports, harbors, and waterways, assisting with docking and undocking operations, as well as towing and salvage operations. Tugboat captains must possess excellent navigational skills, including knowledge of local waterways, currents, and weather conditions. They need to have a strong understanding of maritime regulations and safety protocols to ensure the safe transportation of cargo and passengers. Additionally, they may be required to oversee maintenance and repairs on the tugboat and manage a crew of deckhands. This occupation requires physical stamina, good communication skills, and the ability to make quick decisions in emergency situations.

Skills: Tugboat captain, Maritime industry, Ship handling, Navigation, Port operations, Towing operations
Job industry: Maritime

How much does Tug Boat Captain make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Tug Boat Captain a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Tug Boat Captain is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Tug Boat Captain?

High salary for Tug Boat Captain would be somewhere between 125,892 USD and 165,948 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Tug Boat Captain in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 114,447 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 9,537 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,201 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 55 USD per hour
By working as Tug Boat Captain a person can save up to 7,225 USD per month or 86,697 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Tug Boat Captain

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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