Cruise Ship Master (Captain)

Maritime & Healthcare Group; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Maritime & Healthcare Group is seeking a Cruise Ship Master to lead operations of a premier passenger vessel. This role involves ensuring safety, compliance with maritime regulations, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Candidates must hold an STCW Master Unlimited Certificate and possess significant maritime leadership experience.

Benefits

Private accommodation onboard

Travel arrangements and full uniform provided

Opportunities for career progression within the fleet

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as Master or Staff Captain on large passenger vessels.
• Valid endorsements like GMDSS and ECDIS.
• Excellent command of English; additional languages are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assume full responsibility for vessel safety, security, and operational integrity.
• Navigate the vessel safely according to voyage plans.
• Conduct regular emergency drills and safety briefings for crew.

Skills

Leadership

Crisis Management

Communication

Education

STCW Master Unlimited Certificate of Competency

Job description

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MHG is a globally recognized and MLC and ISO certified provider of comprehensive medical solutions for the maritime industry. Since 2019, we have focused on supporting vessels with a range of services that ensure compliance, safety, and well-being. Our extensive offerings include medical facility management, recruitment, mental health services, telemedicine,biomedical support, and more tailored solutions specifically for maritime environments.

Maritime & Healthcare Group (MHG) is recruiting on behalf of one of our esteemed cruise line clients for the position of Cruise Ship Master. This is a unique opportunity to lead the safe and efficient operation of a world-class passenger vessel, ensuring both maritime excellence and an exceptional guest experience.

Job Summary:

The Cruise Ship Master is the highest-ranking officer onboard and holds overall command of the vessel, crew, passengers, and operations. The Master ensures the safe navigation, regulatory compliance, efficient operation, and guest satisfaction in alignment with company policies, international maritime law, and flag state requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Assume full responsibility for vessel safety, security, and operational integrity

Navigate the vessel safely and efficiently according to voyage plans, weather, and sea conditions

Ensure full compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM, ISPS, MLC, and other maritime regulations

Supervise and support department heads (Hotel Director, Chief Engineer, Staff Captain, etc.)

Represent the company in all official capacities, including with port authorities and inspection teams

Conduct regular emergency drills and safety briefings for crew and passengers

Maintain proper logs, reports, certificates, and official documentation onboard

Act as the final authority on disciplinary matters, emergencies, and decision-making

Foster a safety and service-oriented culture among the crew

Oversee environmental compliance, fuel efficiency, and navigational technology management

Provide onboard leadership and uphold company brand and service standards

Qualifications & Experience:

Valid STCW Master Unlimited Certificate of Competency

Minimum 5 years’ experience as Master or Staff Captain on large passenger vessels

Valid GMDSS, ECDIS, BRM, ARPA, Medical First Aid, Security Awareness, and other relevant endorsements

Excellent command of English (written and verbal); additional languages are a plus

Familiarity with bridge systems, electronic charting, and integrated ship systems

Strong leadership, communication, and crisis management skills

Experience with class, flag state, PSC, and vetting inspections

Impeccable safety and environmental record

Additional Requirements:

Valid passport and seafarer medical certificate (ENG1 or equivalent)

Clean criminal background check

Flexible for 4:2 or 3:3 rotational contracts

High level of professionalism, discretion, and integrity

Competitive tax-free salary

Private accommodation onboard

Travel arrangements and full uniform provided

Opportunities for career progression within the fleet

Access to guest and crew facilities during off-duty hours