Ship Captain (excluding fishing vessels)
せんぱくていちょう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Occupation responsible for commanding navigation, safety management, and crew supervision as the operation manager of commercial ships excluding fishing vessels.
Description
Ship captains serve as the highest authority on merchant ships, passenger ships, tankers, and other vessels excluding fishing boats, directing safe and efficient voyages. They handle route planning and adjustments, monitoring weather and sea conditions, steering and navigation supervision, crew management and training, ship inspections and maintenance, emergency responses, and compliance with international treaties and regulations. On international routes, communication in English or other languages is also required.
Future Outlook
Stable demand is expected due to the expansion of world trade and the importance of maritime transport, while ship automation and digitalization advance, requiring increasingly advanced specialized knowledge.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Has leadership / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Long-term voyages / Onboard duty / Overseas routes / Shift work
Career Path
Third-class Navigator → Second-class Navigator → First-class Navigator → Ship Captain → Operations Manager
Required Skills
Meteorological and Oceanographic Analysis / Navigation Planning / Radio Communication Operation / Steering Techniques
Recommended Skills
Basic Knowledge of Ship Engines / Emergency Response Training / English Maritime Communication / Team Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Need to respond quickly to changes in weather and sea conditions. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small mistakes directly impact safety. |
| Communication Skills | Essential for coordination with crew, port authorities, and maritime safety agencies. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Initiative is important to lead the crew and ensure safe operations. |
| Planning & Organization | Necessary for route setting and work planning. |
| Problem Solving | Essential for handling troubles at sea and emergency responses. |
| Stress Tolerance | High mental resilience is required for long hours and emergencies. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Creative thinking is not particularly required in navigation duties. |
Related Qualifications
- Captain's License under the Ship Crew Law
- First-class Sea Technician (Navigation) License
Aliases
- Captain
Related Jobs
- Chief Engineer
- Navigator
- Pilot