Vessel Master 45m | Rottnest Express

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

About Us

Rottnest Express is part of the Journey Beyond Group and is the leading operator of marine transfers to and from the stunning Rottnest Island. In addition to ferry services, Rottnest Express specialises in extended stay and day tour packages (both inbound and domestic), as well as expertly curated adventure tours providing unforgettable experiences in and around the Island.

The group was formed in 2016 and now includes:
Rail & Touring: Iconic trains: The Ghan, Indian Pacific, Great Southern, The Overland and Vintage Rail Journeys, the Murray Princess, Adelaide Sightseeing, premium small-group outback operator Outback Spirit and New Zealand coach tour specialist Grand Pacific Tours.
Resorts & Lodges: Ayers Rock Resort, Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Kingfisher Bay Resort and K'gari Beach Resort, Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef and Monarto Safari Resort.
Experiences & Attractions: Cruise Whitsundays, Rottnest Express, Sailaway Port Douglas, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures, Darwin Harbour Cruises, Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney, Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka 89, Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Exmouth Dive and Whalesharks Ningaloo, Mosman Gorge Cultural Centre, Captain Cook Cruises Sydney & Perth, Starship Sydney, The Jackson, Bells Functions, Swan Valley Tours, Red Cat Adventures, Whitsunday Jetski Tours, K'gari Explorer Tours, and Island Connections: Bruny Island, the Whitsundays, K’gari, Darwin -Mandorah, Tiwi Islands and Groote Eylandt. 

About The Role

We are looking for an experienced Vessel Master to join our Rottnest Express team. The Vessel Master will be responsible for the safe operation of the vessel while delivering exceptional service to our guests. This position is initially offered on a full-time / part-time seasonal basis from October 2026 to June 2027, with the possibility of ongoing employment after this period.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Ensure compliance with all marine standards and that the vessel is operated and navigated in a safe manner
• Conduct safety drills in line with SMS requirements and facilitate prestart/toolbox talks, sharing relevant information with the crew
• Maintain daily vessel log entries to the required standard, utilising the maintenance management system Helm
• Assist in the ongoing training and development of both new and existing crew members
• Provide leadership and guidance to the crew to enhance their professional motivation and growth within their role
• Provide constructive feedback to the Fleet Manager regarding crew performance and participate in performance management discussions as required
• Delegate and oversee daily duties for assigned vessel crew
• Assist and provide supervision for the loading and unloading of the vessel
• Responsible for passenger boarding and greeting passengers on arrival and departure
• Promote a strong customer service focus and culture amongst crew to support achievement of NPS targets
• Encourage a positive safety culture and promote the reporting of incidents/injuries via Protecht
• Adherence to Work Instructions, operational procedures and WHS requirements

About You

The ideal candidate will be a team player who has a ‘can-do’ attitude and a proactive and solutions focused approach. You will possess strong customer service skills, be tech savvy and be able to multitask and prioritise effectively. We are seeking an individual with strong people leadership capabilities who can positively influence a team to deliver exceptional guest experience.

Requirements:

• Relevant experience within the marine tourism industry (essential)
• Experience as a Vessel Master operating in Perth coastal waters inc. Fremantle & Rottnest Island (highly desirable)
• Current AMSA issued Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45m Near Coastal)
• Certificate of Local Knowledge (CoLK)
• Provide First Aid and CPR certificate
• Responsible service of alcohol certificate (preferred)
• The ability to work varied hours across a 7-day roster, including weekends and public holidays

What We Offer

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

If you are interested in this role and meet the criteria outlined above, we encourage you to apply today. We look forward to hearing from you.