For over 27 years, Harbor Breeze Cruises has been a premier provider of public whale-watching tours, harbor cruises, and private charters in Southern California. Our company is dedicated to providing an incredible guest experience on some of California’s most scenic harbors and the incredible Pacific Ocean. Our team is dedicated to marine education, environmental conservation, and delivering exceptional experiences to guests from all over the world.

$300 per day

About the role

The Vessel Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of passenger vessels, ensuring the safety of all crew members and guests while delivering an engaging and memorable cruise experience. The captain will oversee navigation, crew management, vessel maintenance, and regulatory compliance, ensuring a high standard of service and safety.

What you'll do

● Safe Navigation: Command and navigate the vessel, ensuring adherence to all U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, company policies, and maritime safety procedures.

● Crew Leadership: Supervise and manage crew members, ensuring proper training, certification, and adherence to safety protocols.

● Passenger Safety & Customer Experience: Conduct safety briefings, enforce safety procedures, and provide exceptional customer service, including educational narration during tours.

● Vessel Maintenance: Oversee daily vessel inspections, maintenance logs, fueling operations, and coordination of repairs to ensure peak operational performance.

● Regulatory Compliance: Ensure full compliance with maritime laws, as well as environmental and safety regulations.

● Emergency Preparedness: Develop, implement, and conduct regular safety drills, ensuring all crew members are trained to handle emergencies effectively.

● Operational Efficiency: Optimize vessel operations to maintain schedules, reduce costs, and enhance the overall guest experience.

● Client & Partner Relations: Act as the primary representative of Harbor Breeze Cruises while onboard, ensuring positive guest interactions and high service standards.

● Record Keeping: Maintain Vessel Logs, Maintenance Reports, Personnel Reports, and other required documentation.

● Workplace Cleanliness: Ensure a clean and safe working environment, including all common areas, restrooms, and passenger decks.

● Additional Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by management to support overall company operations.

Qualifications

● Valid U.S. Coast Guard Master's License (100 Ton or higher) with appropriate endorsements.

● FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit

● TWIC

● Radar Observer Endorsement

● Must pass USCG-mandated alcohol and drug tests, including pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and post-incident testing.

● Minimum 3-5 years of experience operating passenger vessels in coastal waters.

● Strong knowledge of maritime laws, navigation, and vessel safety procedures.

● Ability to lead and mentor a diverse crew while ensuring a positive work environment.

● Excellent communication and customer service skills to engage with passengers and narrate tours.

● Experience in handling vessel maintenance and coordinating with marine engineers.

● Physical ability to stand for extended periods, operate vessel equipment, and respond to emergencies.

● Willingness to work flexible schedules, including weekends and holidays.

Harbor Breeze Cruises is committed to providing equal opportunity in all employment practices, including, but not limited to, selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation, to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, marital status, disability, pregnancy, medical condition, military or veteran status, citizenship status, or any other category protected by law.