Captain (excluding fishing vessels)
きゃぷてん（ぎょろうせんをのぞく）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that takes overall command of non-fishing vessels such as cargo ships and passenger ships, managing safe and efficient operations.
Description
Captains serve as the chief officers for ship operations on non-fishing vessels such as merchant ships and ferries. They create voyage plans, handle steering, collect and analyze weather information, and select optimal routes. They also supervise crew guidance, safety management, cargo and passenger handling, port procedures, emergency responses and life-saving operations, ship maintenance inspections, and repair arrangements—a wide range of responsibilities. They comply with relevant laws such as maritime traffic regulations and environmental protection rules to ensure safe and smooth voyages.
Future Outlook
With the growth of international trade and maritime logistics, demand for captains handling ship operation safety management is expected to remain stable. The spread of automated navigation technology and digital navigation systems will require continuous updates to knowledge and skills.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Has leadership / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Domestic routes / International voyages / Long-term voyage duty / Overseas routes / Shift work
Career Path
Third-class Navigator → Second-class Navigator → First-class Navigator → Captain → Maritime Administrator
Required Skills
Chart Reading / Emergency Response / Steering Technique / Voyage Planning / Weather Information Analysis
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / Environmental Regulation Knowledge / Marine Engineering / Safety Management System Operation / Team Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Must flexibly respond to changes in the marine environment. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minor procedural errors can lead to fatal accidents. |
| Communication Skills | Coordination with crew and port personnel requires essential communication for safe operations. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Leadership is important to lead the crew and take command oneself. |
| Planning & Organization | Planning skills are crucial for voyage planning and crew management. |
| Problem Solving | Quick decision-making is required during bad weather or equipment failures. |
| Stress Tolerance | Must endure high stress during long voyages or emergency responses. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Generating new ideas is not a primary duty. |
Related Qualifications
- First-class Marine Officer (Navigation)
- Marine Radio Operator
- Second-class Marine Officer (Navigation)
Aliases
- Captain
Related Jobs
- Helmsman
- Navigator
- Operations Officer