This is all judging the validity of the term from your own perspectives, which while interesting, limits the useful scope of your opinions.
I can relate to this answer. Have owned boats since '83. I just passed my OUPV Captain test, documents and application are in process. My motivation is somewhat similar to yours, and don't know if I'll ever do anything to get paid as a captain, but it kind of feels good to earn the title.Captain Recess,
You are the owner/operator/master & captain of your vessel. If folks want to refer to you as captain, wear it proudly. Thirty years of experience both in power & sail, you've earned your bars man.
I felt some years ago that I had put in my time and effort & deserved to warrant a captain's license for my personal satisfaction. It took some years for me to feel this confident & I felt it was deserved.
I started out with a six-pack, then up to Master 100T, then Aux Sail & Assistance Towing. I never did this to make money, however I've run sailing/fishing/diving charters on many different boats & enjoyed every minute. And remember, not all captains are created equal; licensed or knot. It's about experience coupled with knowledge & what you have accomplished, be it personal or professional.
My description of a captain would be:
1. Attention to safety.
2. Keeping a seaworthy vessel.
3. Navigational ability.
4. Understanding weather & sea conditions.
5. Sailing/operational ability.
6. Situational emergency ability
7. Electrical & mechanical ability.
This is what a captain IS & DOES.
Hell, if you haven't killed or maimed anyone in 30 years, the term captain or master should fit well & you should welcome the term. There are some licensed captains that cannot make this claim.
CR
As a former restaurant employee (some 40+ years ago), I believe that I'm qualified.FROM THE DICTIONARY:
CAPTAIN |ˈkaptən|
noun
... a supervisor of waiters or bellboys.
As our yacht is not part of the military, anything goes. Call me captain, bellboy supervisor, or Dude!... like Ray, just don't call me late for dinner.You Can Call Me...
Ray. You can call me Jay. You can even call me Ray-Jay. Just don't call me late for dinner.