Senior Ship's Master / Engineer | Sailaway Port Douglas

Be a part of sharing special places and shaping lasting memories with Australia’s leading experiential tourism business.

About Us

At Sailaway, we’re passionate about sharing the beauty and wonder of the Great Barrier Reef. Our mission is to provide guests with an unforgettable experience through expert reef interpretation and sustainable sailing adventures.

Our team brings together passionate experts who deliver engaging and informative presentations, helping guests appreciate the fragile marine environment and the incredible life beneath the surface. Complementing this knowledge are skilled professionals who ensure safety and comfort while delivering the thrill of pure sailing aboard state-of-the-art catamarans.

Based in Port Douglas, we offer daily access to spectacular reef sites, including Mackay Coral Cay and the idyllic Low Isles. These locations feature vibrant coral gardens, giant clams, and abundant marine life, making them perfect for snorkellers.

We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, sustainability, and creating memorable experiences for every guest.

About Journey Beyond

Australia’s leading experiential tourism group, Journey Beyond, is privileged to operate 20 brands spanning the country and

New Zealand, connecting guests to the land, and to each other.

Headquartered in Adelaide, Journey Beyond formed in 2016 and now comprises tourism brands including: iconic trains The Ghan, Indian Pacific, Great Southern, The Overland; premium small-group outback operator Outback Spirit; eco-luxury lodge Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef; aquatic adventures Cruise Whitsundays, Rottnest Express, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures, Darwin Harbour Cruises and Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney; our tallest members, Melbourne Skydeck and Eureka 89; the historic Vintage Rail Journeys; The Telegraph Station in Alice Springs; Monarto Safari Resort; Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks Ningaloo and New Zealand coach tour specialist Grand Pacific Tours.

About the Role: 

We are seeking a Ship’s Master to join our team on a full-time basis. The Senior Ship’s Master is a critical leadership position, reporting to the Operations Manager. This role is responsible for the seamless operation of our vessel and prioritising the safety of both passengers and crew. The Senior Ship’s Master will take ownership of the fleet upkeep and presentation through proactive preventative maintenance and sound communication with the Masters and Crew. Your leadership and training ability will set a high standard for our team and your in-depth knowledge of marine safety will ensure our operations exceed industry standards. This opportunity is ideal for someone with a genuine passion for the ocean and for providing memorable experiences for our guests.

Your responsibilities may include but not limited to:

• Oversee vessel operations and upkeep, ensuring safety, compliance and reliability.
• Skipper vessels as required on the different tour programs and charters operated
• Lead by example in providing exemplary customer service and safe practises
• Train and Supervise crew before and during operations to maintain consistency and discipline.
• Maintain a positive relationship with local stakeholders including contractors and marina management .

About You: 

The ideal candidate will be an experienced maritime professional who is passionate about customer service and safety at sea. Your thorough understanding of vessel handling and marine safety practices, combined with excellent communication skills, will be key to your success in this role. You will be physically fit and able to work effectively in diverse conditions, adhering to high standards of professionalism in representing our brand.

To be successful in this role you must have:

• Previous experience in operating sailing vessels, with a focus on the tourism industry preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of workplace health and safety regulations and snorkelling procedures.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm for delivering exceptional customer experiences.

• Master 45m or Master 24m NC AMSA Issued Certificate of Competency
• MED 1 or 2
• HLTAID011 Provide First Aid certification
• HLTAID015 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Oxygen Therapy certification

• Generous discounts on Journey Beyond travel and experiences
• Study Assistance Policy
• Employee Referral Policy
• Parental Leave program
• Purchased Leave policy
• Private Health discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounts on Journey Beyond merchandise

Applications will be processed in the order they are received, so don’t delay, apply now!