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Can a ship captain marry you?

A ship's captain generally does NOT have the legal right to officiate a wedding at sea. In order for a Captain of a ship to perform a marriage at sea, he must also be a judge, a justice of the peace, a minister, or an officially recognized officiant such as a Notary Public.



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It's unfortunate, but it's a myth that the captain of the Maid of the Mist can marry couples. In fact, the captain cannot legally perform wedding ceremonies, since their responsibility is to ensure the safety of the passengers on board the boat.

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It's fiction. Ship captains have the authority to allow or disallow an on-board marriage ceremony but is himself unauthorised to perform it. It is performable only by a person authorised by the ship's registered country's laws to perform marriage at sea — which often means the ship's chaplain.

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Ship's captains hold command and responsibility of a vessel. They are responsible for navigation, taking care of the crew, paperwork, and in some cases, keeping the ship safe from pirates.

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In the United States, a Notary Public or a non-denominational officiant will preside. In non-U.S. ports, a non-denominational officiant will preside. Legal ceremonies at sea are performed by the Captain or Staff Captain. Symbolic ceremonies at sea are performed by a non-denominational officiant.

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Set up/break down, wedding coordinating services, officiant, photographer, unity sand, and legal filing of your Florida marriage license is all included at a budget-friendly price. Cruise wedding packages can average around $4,000-$8,000.

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Yes and no. In most parts of the world, including the USA, many captains can marry a couple together. But not because they are Captain. The position of captain does not grant them that power.

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Must be at least 18 years old. Must be able to document 360 days of experience on a vessel, of which at least 90 days must be on Near Coastal/Ocean waters otherwise license will be limited to Inland Waters ONLY. (See: What Counts as Sea Service) 90 days of sea service must be within the last 3 years of when you apply.

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If a ship is sinking, maritime tradition dictates that the captain ensures the safe evacuation of every passenger before he evacuates himself. He (or she) is responsible for the lives of those onboard, and he can't coordinate their exit unless he's the last person off.

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Benefits of Eloping on a Cruise. Couples choose to embark on a cruise to start their marriage journey for many different reasons. Whether they love adventure, want to commemorate a special milestone in their relationship or wish for a unique and personalized wedding celebration, a cruise elopement is a perfect solution ...

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