Captain, Maui Ocean Adventures | USCG 100-Ton Master

Pacific Whale Foundation; Lahaina (HI); On-site; USD 44,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Health Insurance

401(k)

Free Ecotours

Job summary

Pacific Whale Foundation in Lahaina, HI seeks an experienced Captain to command vessels, ensure safety, and deliver a place-based guest experience rooted in Hawaiian values and ocean stewardship.

The role requires a USCG Master’s license (100 Gross Tons) with sailing endorsement, strong ship-handling skills, and local knowledge of Maui Nui’s waters. Competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for hands-on leadership await.

Qualifications

• USCG Master’s license (100 Gross Ton) with Sailing Endorsement is required.
• Experience sailing from Māʻalaea Harbor and around Maui Nui is strongly preferred.
• Valid Marine Radio Operator’s Permit is required.
• First Aid/CPR, Oxygen and AED certifications, Hawaii Food Handlers Certification, and Maui Bar Card required within 3 months of hire.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in USCG random drug testing.
• Current USCG medical certificate and TWIC card required.

Responsibilities

• Hold vessel and crew in full USCG compliance at all times; comply with all USCG and company policies, procedures, and rules.
• Maintain working knowledge of vessel systems, safety requirements, and procedures; lead vessel drills and comply with the Substance Abuse Policy.
• Ensure passenger safety through constant situational awareness and administer first aid as needed.
• Deliver weather concerns to guests and issue weather warnings when appropriate and according to policy.
• Oversee daily vessel maintenance, cleaning, and pre/post-trip checks; report deficiencies promptly.
• Make necessary repairs to vessel and equipment; coordinate with Port Captain and Maintenance team as needed.
• Command the vessel and execute safe navigation under sail and power, including route and weather assessment, docking, mooring, and anchoring.
• Directly supervise and support crew during boarding, disembarking, line handling, docking, and mooring operations.
• Mentor and develop crew, reinforcing safety culture and service standards.
• Set the tone for a place-based, regenerative tourism experience with ocean stewardship at the heart of every trip.

Skills

USCG Master License

Sailing Endorsement

First Aid/CPR

TWIC Card

Oxygen/AED Certification

Hawaii Bar Card

Drug Testing Compliance

Job description

Pacific Whale Foundation in Lahaina, HI seeks an experienced Captain to command vessels, ensure safety, and deliver a place-based guest experience rooted in Hawaiian values and ocean stewardship.

The role requires a USCG Master’s license (100 Gross Tons) with sailing endorsement, strong ship-handling skills, and local knowledge of Maui Nui’s waters. Competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for hands-on leadership await.