Master for Orient Express Sailing Yachts

vgroup; Greater London; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

vgroup seeks a Master to command the Orient Express Olympian, overseeing guests, crew and ship safety. The role requires delivering compliance with maritime protocols and environmental policies while maintaining high professional standards and international collaboration.

Fluent in English and French, you will lead safety drills, report to senior marine management, and ensure adherence to SMS and regulatory requirements across operations.

Qualifications

• Valid CoC Master unlimited A-II/2.
• Valid STCW95 certification.
• Experience as Captain on varied class of ships and itineraries.
• Physically and medically fit with certification.
• Moral integrity and public health/environmental knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Command the overall operation, guests, crew and safety of the ship.
• Ensure compliance with maritime protocols and safety regulations.
• Lead safety drills and uphold SMS and regulatory standards.

Skills

English fluency

French language

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Communication

Education

CoC Master unlimited A-II/2

STCW95 certification

Medical fitness certification

Public Health/Environmental certification

Tools

AMOS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position: MASTER

Vessel: ORIENT EXPRESS OLYMPIAN

Embarkation: January 2027

Contract: 2 months on/off

Requirements

• Proven and relevant experience as MASTER onboard cruise vessels
• All required STCW and statutory certificates valid and in date
• Good command of French and English
• Positive and verifiable references/recommendations
• Professional attitude and ability to work effectively within an international crew

Position Summary

1. Responsible to command the overall operation, guests, crew and safety of the ship. Ensuring that maritime protocols, environmental policies and safety regulations are strictly followed. Execution of duties in compliance with Company Policies, any National or International standards and with Public Health or any other prescribed regulations, safeguarding the Owner’s and Company interests at all times.

Reporting Structure

1. Directly reporting to SVP Marine.
2. Direct subordinates – Chief Engineer, Staff Captain, Hotel Director, Finance Officer, HR Manager.

Safety Duties

1. Instigates and participates in crew and passenger safety drills.
2. Must always comply with the Company’s safety and pollution prevention regulations and operating procedures.
3. Leads by example by taking care of Health and Safety of self and others.
4. Ensures that all work equipment, personal protective equipment, chemicals and safety devices are being used correctly.

Education/Experience/Qualifications

1. Valid CoC Master unlimited A-II/2.
2. Valid STCW95 certification.
3. Certification as required by regulations for the position.
4. Experience as Captain on varied class of ships and itineraries.
5. Physically and medically fit with certification.
6. Moral integrity is required.
7. Public Health, Sanitation and Environmental certification.

Language requirements

Fluent English (verbal, written and technical). English is the working and safety language on board. This also includes the ability to give and receive instructions in verbal and written forms and to effectively and efficiently engage with guests and crew members. Additional languages are considered beneficial.

Computer knowledge

Good working knowledge of AMOS, and Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Required to stand, walk long distances, reaching and sitting. Repetitive motion of bending, going up and down stairs, climbing ladders. Lifting or pushing of up to 50lbs. The position requires overtime work and irregular schedules. Works in all areas of the vessel with noise, light traffic, distracting environments as well as an office environment.

Profile

1. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead, motivate and develop a culturally diverse work force.
2. Proactive approach to problem solving.
3. Ability to be adaptable to change, well organized, self-managed and motivated. Maintains focus and energy levels to handle multiple demands, remains calm and effective under pressure and resolves issues quickly.
4. Decisive and able to react quickly to make informed decisions efficiently, able to quickly assess the appropriate approach to an emerging issue or take preventative action to prevent a scenario escalating.
5. Models exemplary standards of interpersonal and professional behaviors at all times.
6. Effective, full, clear and concise communication is essential.
7. Safe, professional and personal practices. Fully conversant with SMS – Safety Management System and MLC requirements.
8. Well groomed and neat appearance.
9. Ability to deliver a high standard of performance.

Status - Senior Officer.

Salary - Refer to contract.

Rotation - Refer to contract.