Built by Professional Captains.

Building a Better Life on the Water for All.


The Professional Captains Association brings licensed captains and future captains together to learn, grow, connect, and strengthen the profession. Whether you already hold a license or are working toward one, PCA gives you practical education, community, opportunity, advocacy, and a stronger voice.

Already Licensed?

Join PCA for professional development, practical education, career advancement, community, opportunity, advocacy, and a stronger voice.

Ready to get your License?

Join PCA for $99 per year and add the Confident Captain licensing course for $49 per month. Learn at your own pace through a USCG-approved program built by professional captains.

A Captain’s License Should Not Be Out of Reach.

Cost has kept too many capable boaters from pursuing their captain’s license. PCA members can add a Confident Captain USCG-approved licensing course for just $49 per month and learn at their own pace—without facing a large tuition payment upfront. The annual cost of a PCA membership is only $99.00.


OUR MISSION

The Professional Captains Association helps licensed captains and boaters working toward a license become more capable, connected, and prepared for what comes next. We provide professional development, practical education, career opportunities, community, advocacy, and a stronger voice for the people building their lives on the water.

Professional Development

Practical education, mentorship, and resources to help you become a more capable captain and keep growing throughout your career.

Advocacy and Advice

PCA helps members find reliable information, useful resources, and the right professional connections while giving captains a stronger voice on issues that affect their work and the industry.

Industry Promotion

PCA works to strengthen the profession, increase public understanding of what captains do, and create more opportunity for the people building their lives and careers on the water.

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Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or job seeker, effectively showcasing your unique self (read value proposition) can set you apart in a very crowded market.
Captain Madison Olson was born in Key West, Florida to a family of adventurers who fostered in her a love for the ocean and a need for exploration. At 29 years old she has been sailing professionally for the last ten years on vessels ranging from 10 to 55 meters.  Olson spent her childhood on […]
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What We Do For You

Watchdog

From the Jones Act to Workman's Compensation, we will watch regulations for you, so you don't have to.

Advocacy

Representation for USCG accident investigations and counsel referrals when needed.

Savings on Legal Advice

Access to 24-7/365 access to maritime legal counsel to help you when you need legal advice and guidance.

Job Boards & Networking

The bigger your net, the more fish you catch. Network with other like-minded professional captains and employers through PCA events, and web-based communication tools.

Professional Development Mentorship

Consulting sessions with captains who can offer career advice and provide the tips you need to succeed.

Our membership include discounts on

Financial Planning/ Budgeting

Our financial planning partners know the ins and outs of being a boat captain. We will work with you to plan your financial future.

Legal and Professional Services

Assistance with captains or crew contracts, delivery contracts, budget spreadsheets, resumes (infographic and traditional), passage plans, releases, and form and claim letters.

PCA Gear

Once you sign up, you have access to purchase gear at discounted prices to show your PCA pride!

Website Development

Need a website or social media promotion? We can help develop a site for you that puts you on the map. 

Join today! See our membership benefits below.

For the price of

$99 | year

you'll get access to:

Networking

Watchdog Work & Advocacy

Discounted Gear and Apparel

Job Board Access & Post a Resume

24-7/365 Access to Maritime Legal Counsel

Professional Development Mentorship Program

Business Consultation

Contracts, Charter agreement, and Freelance Guidance