Vessel Master – Great Barrier Reef

Quicksilver Group; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stability with a long-established and

World-class marine environment - reef

Discounted dive courses and reef tours

Staff discounts with tourism industry

Corporate private health discounts

Supportive, safety-focused culture

Advanced Ecotourism Certification team

Job summary

Pro Dive Cairns, part of the Quicksilver Group, seeks an experienced and professional Skipper to join our liveaboard dive fleet. Based in Cairns, this role combines sea duties with guest-focused service on three-day, two-night reef trips.

You will lead safe vessel operations, manage onboard crew, oversee maintenance, and ensure compliance with AMSA and company safety systems. A strong leadership record at sea and relevant certifications are essential.

Qualifications

• Master <24m Near Coastal Certificate is required.
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 (MED 2) Near Coastal is required.
• Senior First Aid & CPR/Oxygen Administration certification.
• PADI Rescue Diver certification (required within first month).
• Dive Instructor qualification is desirable.
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Passport and Australian working rights are required.

Responsibilities

• Safely command and navigate the vessel under sea conditions.
• Lead daily vessel operations including mooring and logistics.
• Manage and support onboard crew to ensure safety and guest service.
• Oversee vessel maintenance and assist with engineering tasks.
• Monitor weather and adjust navigation as needed.
• Ensure AMSA regulations and Safety Management Systems compliance.
• Maintain accurate logs and operational records.
• Represent the company professionally and engage with guests.

Skills

Leadership at sea

Safety-first mindset

Communication

Customer service

Autonomy

Education

Master <24m Near Coastal Certificate

Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 (MED 2) Near Coastal

Senior First Aid & CPR/Oxygen Administration

PADI Rescue Diver

Dive Instructor (desirable)

Driver's licence

Passport and Australian working rights

Job description

Vessel Master - Great Barrier Reef

• Based in Cairns, QLD
• Liveaboard - 3 Days / 2 Nights per swing
• Rotating Roster - Approx. 4 days on / 2 days off

Command a Vessel on the Great Barrier Reef

Pro Dive Cairns, part of the Quicksilver Group, is seeking an experienced and professional Skipper to join our liveaboard dive fleet. Based in Cairns, this is a unique opportunity to work at sea and showcase one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, while being part of a passionate and professional tourism team.

Our fleet of custom-built liveaboard vessels operate three-day, two-night dive adventures with a strong focus on eco-tourism, safety, and guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely command and navigate vessel under various sea conditions
• Lead daily vessel operations including mooring and logistics
• Manage and support onboard crew to ensure high standards of safety and guest service
• Oversee vessel maintenance and assist with general engineering tasks as required
• Monitor weather conditions and make navigational adjustments as needed
• Ensure compliance with AMSA regulations, company procedures, and Safety Management Systems
• Maintain accurate operational records and logs
• Represent the company professionally and engage positively with guests throughout the voyage

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a capable and confident Skipper who brings:

• A strong safety-first mindset and demonstrated leadership at sea
• Excellent communication and team coordination skills
• A customer service focus and passion for marine tourism and sustainability
• The ability to work autonomously and handle challenges at sea

Essential Qualifications

• Master <24m Near Coastal Certificate
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 (MED 2) Near Coastal
• Senior First Aid & CPR/Oxygen Administration certification
• PADI Rescue Diver certification or equivalent (required to obtain within the first month)
• Dive Instructor qualification (desirable)
• Valid driver's licence
• Passport and working rights in Australia (if applicable)

Employee Perks & Benefits

• Stability with a long-established and respected operator
• Work in a world-class marine environment - the reef is your office
• Discounted dive courses and reef tours for you, family and friends
• Staff discounts with tourism industry partners and suppliers
• Corporate private health discounts
• Supportive, inclusive, and safety-focused work culture
• Be part of a team accredited with Advanced Ecotourism Certification

About Pro Dive Cairns & Quicksilver Group

Founded in 1983, Pro Dive Cairns is Australia’s leading dive school and liveaboard dive operator. We are part of the Quicksilver Group, Australia’s largest Great Barrier Reef tourism company, which also includes:

• Quicksilver Cruises
• Great Adventures
• Silverswift and Silversonic
• Ocean Spirit Cruises
• Green Island Resort

Our mission is to deliver unforgettable reef experiences with a strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and exceptional customer service.

To learn more about the Quicksilver Group visit our website https://www.quicksilvergroup.com.au/

At Pro Dive Cairns, we are committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment that values and respects diverse styles, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.