sunsail, the moorings & leopard catamarans

At The Moorings and Sunsail, we plan and deliver fantastic yacht charters across the world.

We have an abiding passion for sailing, taking yachting holidays to the next level across the most spectacular destinations worldwide which keeps our customers coming back again and again! From independent sailing holidays to fully catered crew and power yacht charters we offer our customers a range of product options, and most importantly an unforgettable experience.

The secret to our success within the yacht industry lies in our exceptional teams, we are united for the same purpose, to have fun while creating extraordinary experiences on the water.

Our Charter Captains are central to our operations. With extensive sailing expertise and strong local knowledge, they provide guests with a safe, professional, and relaxing charter experience. Captains design itineraries based on client preferences and weather conditions, while also introducing guests to hidden local highlights.

Captains must be adaptable and attentive to customer needs, ensuring the guest experience remains the top priority. They are expected to be professional, independent, and confident decision-makers who can handle day-to-day challenges while on charter. Our captains work with the support of a skilled base team, experienced management, and ongoing development opportunities. Company procedures must always be followed, training modules completed, and all certifications kept current.

On average, captains spend two to three weeks per month on charter, although flexibility is essential and back-to-back charters are common during peak periods. When not on charter, captains assist with base operations and support customer service and operational teams as directed by supervisors. Occasionally, captains may also assist with flotillas or all-inclusive crewed charters alongside additional crew members.

This is a full-time position. BVIslanders/Belongers are preferred, and accommodation is provided. Days off are scheduled around charter commitments.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety of clients, crew, and the yacht at all times. The captain is responsible for ensuring the vessel departs and returns to the dock safely.

• Safely pilot, navigate, anchor, and operate the yacht throughout the charter.

• Maintain an updated logbook recording hours, passages, and mileage.

• Conduct quality and safety checks before departure, ensuring all mechanical and electrical systems are operational, including engines, bilge pumps, anchor windlass, and refrigeration.

• Verify that safety equipment is onboard, accessible, and compliant with regulations, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and life rafts.

• Confirm the yacht is fueled, water tanks are full, and sails and rigging are in good condition.

• Ensure the dinghy and the yacht meet company cleanliness and presentation standards before guest arrival.

• Handle minor technical issues during charter and communicate with the base team when specialist support is required.

• Welcome guests onboard and deliver safety and yacht system briefings.

• Act as host during the charter by organizing activities, recommending excursions, and sharing local knowledge.

• Provide basic instruction for activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Maintain the yacht to a high standard during charter, including daily deck washdowns.

• Report incidents promptly according to company procedures.

• At the end of each charter, leave the yacht clean and organized, remove trash and linens, refill water tanks, and complete a debrief with the base technical team.

• Support base operations when not on charter, including briefings, customer service assistance, technical tasks, chase boat duties, and other responsibilities assigned by the Operations Manager.

• During periods of lower charter activity, captains will be expected to assist with base work as needed.

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• BVI Boatmaster’s License for local BVI applicants. RYA Yacht Master Offshore Commercially endorsed will also be accepted, or equivalent
• Valid STCW
• Valid medical check (ENG1 or equivalent)
• Previous experience as a captain on similar sized yachts is desirable
• Able to swim and being competent in the water
• High level of awareness of the importance of safety when responsible for clients, crew, and the vessel.
• Customer service experience with the ability to communicate with clients at all levels and in a professional manner
• Basic technical experience on similar sized yachts and systems – willingness and ability to fix issues as they arise during charter
• Experience managing guests in and around a tender in a safe and controlled manner
• Verbal and written communication skills
• Flexible and can-do attitude

Please note that it is the captain’s responsibility to ensure their qualifications are always valid, up to date, and maintained to satisfactory standard which meets local requirements and company requirements.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We believe people perform best when they can be their true selves, and diverse teams drive better results. We’re committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.

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