Bay of Islands - Sailing Skipper - Tourism - Dargaville
We're seeking an experienced and qualified Skipper to deliver our sailing charters in the beautiful Bay of Islands.
Barefoot Sailing Adventures is a locally owned business operating 2 sailing catamarans. Operating from Oct - May offering a range of cruises including ticketed day sailing, evening cruises and private charters for small groups of up to 20 guests.
Your proven experience with sailing vessels, excellent ship handling skills, and attention to detail will set you apart. You'll be practical and a good problem solver able to fix things on the fly. You'll be ensuring guests have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable time on our sailing cruises.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:- At least 2 years experience as a skipper of a sailing yacht
- Can do attitude with a commitment to ongoing learning
- Strong adherence to maritime rules and safety standards
- Good communication skills, written & verbal
- Some experience in vessel maintenance, and a knack for problem solving
- A love for the outdoors and a respect for Mother Nature's elements
- A positive attitude, welcoming demeanor
- Ability to work as part of a team and contribute to continuous improvement
- Must have a good level of physical fitness, free from injury
- Ensure the smooth operation of the sailing vessel while delivering memorable experiences to our guests.
- Sail to an island destination, oversee activities at the island from snorkeling and paddle boarding, delivering clear safety briefings and information for land based activities.
- Share cultural, historical, and insights with guests in both commentary and a conversational style.
- This role requires you to sail both single handed and with crew, you will manage and delegate duties to crew and conduct crew training where necessary as well as regular safety drills.
- Responsible for the set up and pack down of the vessel, including cleaning.
- Partake in planned maintenance tasks under the guidance of the head skipper & alongside crew when required.
- Share operational responsibilities with our head skipper including providing regular reporting on Health & Safety, Safe Operating Procedures, Vessel Particulars.
To do well in this role you will have experience in skippering commercial vessels in a passenger facing capacity. You have a zest for life and an ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds. You take everything in your stride and handle occasional curve balls with calmness and professionalism.
Work is available across our tourism season 1 Oct - 30 May, with the possibility to extend into the off season for boat maintenance and return for the following season for the right person. We have many great contacts for casual winter work opportunities so there is no shortage of work in the area if you are looking for the security of year round work.
FULL TRAINING INTO THIS TOURISM ROLE IS PROVIDED FOR THE RIGHT APPLICANT. HOWEVER WE DON'T HAVE CAPACITY TO TEACH SOMEONE HOW TO SAIL FROM ZERO TO HERO, SO PLEASE BE REALISTIC ABOUT YOUR SAILING ABILITY WHEN YOU APPLY. If you are unsure just give us a call, we are happy to chat with you about it.You don't have to be a master mariner, we absolutely will teach you the role within the tourism operation and people management, and support you in your career development. What we want ultimately is someone who is KEEN to join the crew!
QUALIFICATIONS/ CERTIFICATES REQUIRED:- Relevant NZ certifications (SRL, ILM, LLO minimum). Australian certs & RYA Yachtmaster (commercially endorsed) may be transferable
If you have an overseas license, please contact us to discuss transferring to NZ Maritime licensing. This can take up to 8 weeks so early preparation is key.
WHY WORK FOR US?LOCAL, IMPACTFUL, SUSTAINABLE: Be part of a local, family owned business, where your ideas are valued and can really make a difference. We are driving strong sustainability initiatives in tourism operations, making a positive impact on our environment and community.
WORK - LIFE BALANCE: Enjoy the pleasure of sailing charters without having to overnight, step ashore and enjoy a social evening at the local, or tuck in at home uninterrupted with your family, favourite person, furry friend or book. Grab a weekend, and escape to enjoy your life passions.
Join us at Barefoot Sailing Adventures and be a part of our mission to provide top-notch Kiwi hospitality, blending professionalism with laid-back charm. If you thrive on connecting with people, and embracing the joys and challenges of life at sea, then this is the job for you.
Visit our website www.barefootsailing.co.nz to see what we are about.
HOW TO APPLY:
- Send your CV with full employment history & references
- Email a cover letter: we'd love to hear -
- What drew you to this role
- Your relevant experience
- Your current work (or other) commitments and what notice period you must give
- Your residency status
Don't hesitate, just get in touch to see what it's all about :)
We look forward to hearing from you!