Yacht Captain

Job description

The captain onboard a yacht has a record of longevity, excellent owner references and strong crew management skills. This individual should possess working knowledge of yacht management and safety in addition to financial administration. The captain will excel in planning and communicating various itineraries to the owners and guests onboard in various cruising areas. All their certifications and licenses are fully up-to-date and they are familiar with the latest requirements/newest technologies. This role usually requires at least five years of experience on yachts.

Job Responsibilities

· Safe navigation and operation of the yacht.

· Steer and operate yacht using equipment such as radar, depth finders, radios, buoys, lights and lighthouses.

· Read gauges to ensure safe levels of hydraulic fluid and oxygen or air pressure.

· Dock and undock yacht, sometimes navigating through tight spaces, such as locks.

· Alter navigation plans based on weather conditions to keep yacht, passengers safe.

· Inspect yacht to ensure efficient and safe operation of yacht and equipment and their conformity to regulations.

· Taking control of yacht repairs and refit projects.

· Compute positions, set courses and determine speeds using charts, compasses, sextants, area plotting sheets and knowledge of local conditions.

· Signal crew members and deckhands to perform necessary tasks, including rig tow lines, open or close ramps and gates and pull guard chains across entries.

· Maintain all onboard equipment, and keep detailed records of daily activities, personnel reports, yacht positions and movements, ports of call, weather conditions, passenger status and pollution control efforts.

· Ensure the seaworthiness of the yacht before every departure.

· Yacht Budget management.

· Decision-making and crew management.

· Assuming the role of ‘host’ and entertaining when necessary.

· Oversee all operations onboard the vessel, including navigation, maintenance and compliance with local regulations.

· Instruct all new crewmembers in safety procedures.

· Direct supervisor for crew.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Must have a Captain’s License.

3-5 years’ experience as a Chief Officer/Mate

5+ years’ experience as a Yacht Captain for larger yachts

CPR or related first aid certifications preferred

STCW Basic Safety Training is mandatory

A seafarer medical certificate is also mandatory

A charismatic and unflappable personality

Excellent navigational skills

Firm knowledge of marine craft communication, signaling and navigation systems

Excellent leadership, etiquette and communication skills

Maintenance and engineering experience or understanding