Island Times Blog

With over 25 years of experience on live-aboard dive vessels, Captain Monk Daniel is owner and Director of Operations for SeaTrek BVI. He has developed and directed several student diving programs and served as a research diver and dive supervisor for Texas A&M University, San Jacinto College and the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary.

Capt. Monk with his pride & joy – Red Boat!

It is another beautiful day in Paradise. You are just up from your last dive, sitting on the back of the boat enjoying the good life while watching the captain as s/he helps your fellow divers out of the water. You start thinking to yourself, “I could do this for a living.” Well guess what…you can!

The life of a charter boat captain is demanding, yet rewarding. It is not one of those jobs that you can just walk into. You have to put your time in and work your way up the ladder. Putting your time in is probably the most important thing you have to do. Most dive charter captains start out as deckhands or divemasters, learning the ropes so to speak. You not only have to know the vessel, but you also have to know how things work, where stuff is stowed, how to work lines and anchor the boat, how to monitor weather conditions, communicate effectively, perform CPR/1^st Aid and Oxygen Administration…the list goes on and on.

Capt. Kris with his 1st and 2nd mates!

You also have to know the captain; s/he has the ultimate word pertaining to all matters. The reason for this is because s/he is ultimately responsible for everything that happens on the boat – Good, Bad or Otherwise.

On top of all the things you need to know about the boat, you also have to pass the US Coast Guard exams. The exams cover topics such as rules of the road, navigation, deck procedures and such.

Captains’ licenses are issued using several different criteria: tonnage of the vessel you have experience on, type of vessel, where it is operated and time spent on board. So again, time is involved. But at the end of the day – if you work hard and respect the process – living the good life in Paradise as a dive charter boat captain could become your reality. Who could ask for anything more?!?

For more information on SeaTrek BVI, Go Here. To learn more about US Coast Guard Mariner Credentialing, Go Here.

Capt. Monk & his crew on to the next dive site!