Senior Skipper- MAKO (Executive Vessel)

Role Overview

This role places a commercially licensed skipper in command of passenger vessels measuring 8 to 14 metres, predominantly powered by twin outboard engines. Day to day, you will plan and execute trips on Lake Victoria and nearby waters, often in low-light or night conditions, while keeping guests safe and comfortable and ensuring the boat meets all Kenyan maritime regulations. The employer relies on your judgement, mechanical awareness, and crew leadership to deliver reliable, polished service that reflects well on the operation and protects everyone on board.

Key Responsibilities

• Command twin-outboard passenger vessels of 8–14 metres during daylight, low-light, and night passages, using radar, chartplotter, AIS, and VHF to navigate safely and avoid hazards.
• Complete pre-departure checks covering engines, fuel, safety equipment, and weather; conduct passenger safety briefings; and confirm the vessel is seaworthy before every trip.
• Manage and train crew members, assigning duties, overseeing deck operations, and maintaining clear communication during mooring, anchoring, and docking.
• Perform routine mechanical inspections and troubleshooting on outboard engines; coordinate repairs or maintenance with shore support when needed.
• Keep accurate logs, checklists, and incident reports in clear English, ensuring compliance with Kenya Maritime Authority requirements and STCW standards.
• Interact confidently and professionally with high-end guests, answering questions, accommodating reasonable requests, and upholding a polished onboard environment.
• Adapt seamanship and vessel handling to changing weather, water conditions, and traffic, making sound decisions to protect passengers, crew, and equipment.
• Mentor less experienced skippers or deckhands, sharing best practices for guest service, night navigation, and twin-outboard operation.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Commercial skipper or master licence recognised by the Kenya Maritime Authority — for example, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or Advanced Powerboat with commercial endorsement.
• Valid STCW Basic Safety Training, VHF radio certificate, first aid certification, and seafarer medical.
• At least 5 years’ experience as skipper of commercial passenger boats between 8 and 14 metres, including twin-outboard handling and documented night navigation.
• Confident using radar, chartplotter, AIS, and VHF radio in real-world conditions.
• Strong seamanship and vessel handling skills across changing weather, currents, and visibility.
• Practical mechanical ability, especially with outboard engines.
• Proven leadership: able to manage and train crew, delegate tasks, and maintain discipline on board.
• Polished, confident communication with high-end guests; clear written English for logs, checklists, and incident reports.
• Advantageous: background in premium guest-facing boat operations, experience training or assessing other skippers, knowledge of diesel outboards, and familiarity with Lake Victoria.
• Must be eligible to work in Kenya.