Skipper – Youth Sailing Programmes

Explore Group; Auckland; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Explore Group in New Zealand is seeking an experienced Skipper to lead the safe operation of our vessels and the delivery of youth development sailing programmes onboard our iconic yachts. This senior maritime leadership role requires SRL 24m endorsements, Coastal Medic and Advanced Sea Survival qualifications, plus proven skippering experience in coastal and offshore waters.

You will mentor crew and ensure compliance with Maritime NZ regulations.

Qualifications

• SRL 24m with passenger endorsements.
• Coastal Medic qualification.
• Advanced Sea Survival qualification.
• Proven skippering experience on coastal/offshore vessels.
• Calm, decisive leadership with strong communication.
• Commitment to youth development and safety.

Responsibilities

• Act as Skipper for inshore voyages, including racing.
• Hold overall responsibility for safe operation of vessel, crew, and participants.
• Lead voyage planning, passage execution, and decision-making at sea.
• Deliver and oversee youth development programmes onboard, including briefings and debriefings.
• Lead and mentor First Mates, Deckhands, and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with Maritime NZ regulations and Maritime Operator Safety Systems.
• Maintain vessel readiness, safety equipment, logs, and reporting requirements.
• Oversee provisioning, onboard routines, and post-voyage vessel condition.
• Contribute to programme evaluation, development, and continuous improvement.

Skills

SRL 24m endorsements

Coastal Medic

Advanced Sea Survival

Skippering experience

Leadership under pressure

Communication skills

Youth development

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Offering unique experiences in amazing places, Explore Group operates a variety of marine based activities and transport in the Bay of Islands, Auckland and Hamilton Island, Australia.

Explore Group, in conjunction with the New Zealand Sailing Trust are seeking an experienced and values-driven Skipper to lead the safe operation of our vessels and the delivery of youth development sailing programmes onboard our iconic yachts.

This is a senior maritime leadership role suited to a professional sailing Skipper who is passionate about mentoring young people, leading crews, and operating within a purpose-led environment.

About the Role

Act as Skipper for inshore voyages, including racing

Hold overall responsibility for the safe operation of the vessel, crew, and participants

Lead voyage planning, passage execution, and decision-making at sea

Deliver and oversee youth development programmes onboard, including briefings, debriefings, and experiential learning activities

Lead and mentor First Mates, Deckhands, and volunteers

Ensure compliance with Maritime NZ regulations and Maritime Operator Safety Systems

Maintain vessel readiness, safety equipment, logs, and reporting requirements

Oversee provisioning, onboard routines, and post-voyage vessel condition

Contribute to programme evaluation, development, and continuous improvement

About You

Minimum SRL (Skipper Restricted Limits) with 24m & passenger endorsements or equivalent

Current Coastal Medic and Advanced Sea Survival qualifications

Proven experience skippering sailing vessels in coastal and offshore environments

Calm, decisive leader with strong communication skills

Passionate about youth development, education, and teamwork

Strong commitment to health, safety, and professional standards

Flexible availability, including weekends and for multi-night voyages

Why Join Us:

A supportive and professional team environment

Make a meaningful impact on young people’s lives through sailing

Lead programmes on well-maintained, purpose-driven vessels

Opportunities to contribute to events, races, and outreach activities

Opportunity to work within one of New Zealand’s most dynamic marine operations

Explore Group is a drug and alcohol-free workplace. Successful applicants will be required to complete police vetting, and only those with the right to work in New Zealand will be considered for this role.