Assistant Boat Captain

The Red Sea Development Company; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Red Sea Development Company is seeking an Assistant Boat Captain to join our luxury marine operations at the Red Sea destination. This site-based role supports the Boat Captain in safe navigation, vessel readiness, and guest experience aboard dive center vessels.

Key duties include daily prep, safety compliance, maintenance of logs and equipment, and collaboration with cross-functional dive teams to ensure smooth operations and exceptional guest service.

Qualifications

• Relevant marine experience in dive or tourism environments.
• Knowledge of vessel operations and safety procedures.
• Experience supporting boat operations or as deckhand is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Boat Captain in safe navigation and operation of dive center vessels.
• Prepare vessels daily for operations, ensuring safety and presentation standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of vessels and ensure proper mooring and docking.
• Support dive center operations including cylinder handling and equipment loading.
• Assist with guest embarkation/disembarkation and dive logistics.
• Report safety concerns and maintain vessel logs and maintenance records.

Skills

Marine experience

Vessel operations knowledge

Deckhand experience

Diving operations familiarity

Education

Maritime certification

Job description

From Land to Sea – Active Experiences in Nature’s Purest Form

Red Sea Sports & Entertainment (RSSE)is a dedicated subsidiary ofRed Sea Global (RSG), responsible for designing and delivering outstanding land and marine experiences atThe Red Sea destination. RSSE manages and operates a diverse portfolio of sports, adventure, and leisure offerings, including water sports throughGalaxea, adventure activities viaAkun, and leisure experiences delivered byWAMA.

RSSE plays a key strategic role in the partnership betweenRed Sea Globaland theSaudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee, united by a shared ambition to promote inclusive, accessible, and world-class sports and recreational experiences.

Guided by a purpose-driven approach and a strong commitment to people and the planet, RSSE delivers innovative programs aligned withSaudi Vision 2030, supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global leader in regenerative tourism.

Job Purpose

The Assistant Boat Captain is a site-based role that supports the safe, efficient, and professional operation of dive center vessels. Working closely with the Boat Captain, this role ensures smooth daily marine operations while maintaining the highest standards of safety, guest experience, and vessel readiness.

The Assistant Boat Captain plays a key role in supporting navigation, vessel preparation, and dive logistics, while also contributing to the upkeep, cleanliness, and maintenance of all marine assets. This position combines operational support, safety awareness, and guest interaction within a luxury marine tourism environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. General Responsibilities

• Support the Boat Captain in the safe navigation and operation of all dive center vessels.
• Assist with daily vessel preparation, ensuring readiness, safety compliance, and presentation standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of vessels (interior and exterior) to a high standard.
• Assist with mooring, anchoring, docking, and vessel handling as directed by the Boat Captain.
• Support dive center operations, including cylinder handling, equipment loading/unloading, and general organization.
• Contribute to a positive and professional onboard environment for guests and crew.

2. Pre-Opening Support

• Assist in the setup and readiness of marine assets prior to operations.
• Support cross-functional teams during the delivery phase to ensure operational requirements are met.
• Develop familiarity with local navigation routes, dive sites, and marine conditions.

3. Operational Responsibilities (Post-Opening)

• Assist in the safe embarkation and disembarkation of guests.
• Support diver drop-offs and pick-ups in accordance with established dive protocols.
• Monitor safety conditions onboard and elevate any risks or concerns to the Boat Captain.
• Assist in maintaining vessel logs, checklists, and daily operational records.
• Conduct routine checks on safety equipment and report any deficiencies.
• Support basic troubleshooting of vessels and outboard engines where applicable.
• Ensure all equipment and onboard areas are properly secured and maintained.
• Assist in delivering a smooth and enjoyable guest experience throughout the journey.
• Adhere to all marine safety standards, emergency procedures, and operational protocols.
• Support the implementation of safety drills and emergency preparedness measures.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote responsible marine practices.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized working environment onboard.
• Follow all company policies, SOPs, and maritime guidelines.
• Assist in maintaining accurate records, including maintenance logs and operational checklists.
• Report incidents, hazards, or maintenance issues promptly to the Boat Captain and management.
• Support initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency, safety, and guest experience.
• Actively contribute to team development and operational best practices.

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant marine or boating experience, preferably within a dive or tourism environment.
• Basic knowledge of vessel operations, navigation, and safety procedures.
• Experience supporting boat operations or working as a deckhand is preferred.
• Familiarity with diving operations and handling divers is an advantage.
• Basic mechanical knowledge of boats and outboard engines is desirable.

Core Competencies

• Basic proficiency in spoken English; Arabic is an advantage.
• Strong commitment to safety and operational discipline.
• Positive attitude with a strong customer service mindset.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding, outdoor marine environment.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• High level of attention to detail and reliability.
• Ability to remain calm and responsive in high-pressure situations.
• Professional demeanor aligned with luxury hospitality standards.
• Willingness to learn and develop within marine operations.
• Additional language proficiency (preferably Arabic).
• Entry-level maritime certification or training.
• Interest or background in marine conservation and sustainability.

Job Context

• Operates within a luxury marine tourism and dive center environment.
• Requires flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends and peak seasons.
• Involves daily on-water activities and exposure to varying weather and sea conditions.
• Provides a development pathway toward a Boat Captain role.