Seal Boat Crew

MacLeod Estates Ltd; Dunvegan; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A marine operation company in Dunvegan seeks a skipper to operate powerboats safely and ensure an excellent visitor experience on wildlife tours. The ideal candidate will have RYA Powerboat Level II, strong communication skills, and a good understanding of the local area. Responsibilities include running pleasure trips to view the Common Seal colony while prioritizing safety. You should be dynamic, self-motivated, and capable of handling customer interactions effectively. Experience in tourism is a plus.

Qualifications

• RYA Powerboat Level II and commercial endorsements are essential.
• Good working knowledge of Loch Dunvegan required.
• Verbal communication skills and customer service experience are crucial.

Responsibilities

• Operate powerboats safely on marine pleasure trips.
• Skipper boats to observe wildlife while ensuring passenger safety.
• Offer guided trips and enhance visitor experience.

Skills

Good working knowledge of Loch Dunvegan

RYA Powerboat Level II and commercial endorsements

Excellent verbal communication skills

Customer focused and confident with people

Practical experience in a visitor environment

Ability to cope with varying pressures

Self-Motivated and dynamic

Job description

Job Overview

Operate the clinker-built powerboats at MacLeod Estates Marine Operation safely and to the required H&S and other legislation requirements pertaining to marine pleasure trips to visitors in Loch Dunvegan.

Skipper the boats to run the various pleasure trips to observe the resident Common Seal colony in Loch Dunvegan such that the animals are not disturbed, the passengers’ safety is paramount, and the trips run to the required time and course.

Offer guided trips such that the variety of wildlife observed is protected and the visitor experience is enhanced by imparting knowledge of the wildlife and habitat within the parameters of the trip.

Occasionally situations may arise that require the post holder to perform other duties or tasks outwith this remit as may be reasonably requested by the Estate.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Knowledge

Essential: Good working knowledge of Loch Dunvegan.

Self‑Motivated, enthusiastic, dynamic and energetic.

Desirable: Basic understanding of Health and Safety issues.

Skills & Qualifications

• RYA Powerboat Level II and commercial endorsements (sea survival, VHF radio and First Aid).
• Awareness of marine safety responsibilities within the scope of the job.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Practical experience in a visitor environment.
• Able to cope with varying pressures.
• Able to work alone and use initiative.
• Customer focused and confident with people.
• Punctual.

Desirable: Some experience working in tourism or with customers. A people person. Good verbal communication skills.

Experience

• Has worked as part of a team.
• Proven ability in carrying out instructions.
• Has experience in dealing with the public in face‑to‑face situations.
• Able to field complaints.