What's the difference between the six-pack and master captain licenses?

The differences between the 6 Pack Operator and the Master Captain’s licenses have to do with whether or not the vessel is inspected and how far offshore you plan to operate the vessel. The amount of sea time you have to have for each designation varies as well.

It’s important to note that the 6 Pack is not a prerequisite for a Master Captain’s license. If you meet the minimum sea time requirements, you can skip the 6 Pack and apply directly for the Master.

Differentiating Types of Captain’s Licenses

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) recognizes the following captain’s designations, each with its own stipulations:

• 6 Pack – the 6 Pack Operator’s is for uninspected vessels that carry six or fewer passengers only. It’s only for vessels up to 100 gross tons that operate no farther than 100 miles offshore. You must have at least 360 days of boating experience, including at least 90 days offshore. If your only experience is inland, you may want to shoot for the Master Inland license.
• Master Inland – the Master Inland captain’s license is for operators of either inspected or uninspected vessels with a seven or more passenger capacity, weighing up to 100 gross tons, that operates on inland waters. You must have at least 360 days of boating experience, 90 of which must have been within the past three years.
• Master Near Coastal – this designation is also for uninspected or inspected vehicles weighing up to 100 gross tons, but this license will allow you to operate your vessel up to 200 miles offshore. The sea time requirements are much higher: 720 days of boating experience, half of which need to be offshore and 90 of which need to have been within the past three years.

USCG’s Qualification Requirements

In order to obtain your captain’s license, you’ll need to complete the USCG application package. Some of the required forms and information include:

• the USCG’s application (called a Application for License as an Officer, Staff Officer or Operator and for Merchant Mariner's Document);
• documentation of your sea time;
• an oath you give to the USCG;
• three character references;
• your TWIC card;
• physical exam;
• drug screen results;
• USCG-approved captain’s course certification;
• first aid and CPR certification; and
• licensing fees.

Benefits of Pursuing a Certification

It sounds like a lot of footwork and paperwork, plus the effort of putting in your sea time and successfully finishing a course. It’s something that a lot of mariners want to do, though, because they love to be at sea. Plus, they are able to reap several other important potential benefits:

• increasing employability and credibility;
• higher income earning potential;
• garnering and benefiting from more skills; and
• potentially lowering insurance premiums.

Resources for Mariners

If completing a course seems impractical, there are many online courses available that you can complete at your convenience. Also, if you are in need of logbooks to make sure your vessel is up to USCG regulation, you can shop online at My Vessel Logs. For questions about logbooks or to determine what logging requirements are needed for your particular vessel, contact 888-468-3757.