Guard Boat Captain
けいかいせんせんちょう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Guard boat captains manage the operation and navigation of guard boats engaged in maritime vigilance missions, directing safety measures.
Description
Guard boat captains command guard boats of the Japan Coast Guard or private organizations, handling maritime vigilance tasks such as monitoring other vessels' passages and deterring territorial sea violations. They perform a wide range of duties including ship maneuvering, route planning, analysis of weather information and nautical charts, operation of communication equipment, crew management and training, compliance with laws and regulations, and coordination with relevant agencies. Duties often involve long hours at sea and navigation in bad weather, requiring quick and accurate judgment in emergencies.
Future Outlook
With increasing maritime traffic and growing interest in ocean safety, demand for guard boat captains is expected to remain stable. While advances in automated navigation technology may automate some tasks, the role of captains with advanced judgment and on-site command skills will remain important.
Personality Traits
Ambitious / Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Good team player / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
At-sea duty / Domestic and international routes / Long hours / Night shifts / Shift work
Career Path
Third Mate → Second Mate → First Mate → Chief Mate → Guard Boat Captain
Required Skills
Communication Equipment Operation / Emergency Response Procedures / Legal Knowledge (Maritime Traffic) / Nautical Chart Reading / Ship Handling Skills / Weather Information Analysis
Recommended Skills
Engine Basics / English Communication Skills / GPS Electronic Nautical Chart Operation / Leadership / Ship Safety Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | The ability to flexibly adapt to changes in maritime environments and weather is important. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is essential to not miss small changes during navigation or equipment malfunctions. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Necessary to actively make judgments and give instructions in emergency situations. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Endurance is needed to handle long voyages and duties in rough weather. |
| Planning & Organization | Due to the need to properly organize route plans and crew assignments. |
| Problem Solving | High problem-solving skills are required for troubleshooting in emergencies and avoiding dangers. |
| Stress Tolerance | Required to calmly cope even in harsh environments or tense situations. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To maintain safe operations in cooperation with the crew. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Creative solutions for routes or emergency responses are not particularly required. |
Related Qualifications
- Chief Navigator (Navigation) Grade 1
- First Class Maritime Radio Operator
- Ship Staff License
Related Jobs
- Captain
- First Mate
- Navigator
- Pilot