Posted by Working as a Cruise Captain is more than operating a vessel, it is about creating unforgettable experiences for travelers while ensuring their safety on the water. Every tour presents an opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s stunning coastal scenery, marine wildlife, and world-renowned hospitality.
E KO Tours is currently recruiting Cruise Captains to join its team in Picton, New Zealand, operating sightseeing and wildlife tours across the sheltered waters of the breathtaking Queen Charlotte Sound. The company welcomes applications from both experienced captains and trainee captains who are eager to build their careers in the marine tourism industry.
Whether you’re an experienced maritime professional with over two years of command experience or an aspiring captain looking to gain valuable hands-on training, this opportunity offers the chance to work with a supportive team, deliver exceptional wildlife experiences, and develop your maritime career in one of New Zealand’s most scenic tourism destinations.
Job Overview
Job Title: Cruise Captain
Company: E KO Tours
Location: Picton 7220, New Zealand
Employment Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Apprenticeship / Traineeship
Industry: Tourism, Marine Operations, Hospitality
About E KO Tours
E KO Tours is a New Zealand tourism operator offering guided cruises through the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound. The company specializes in wildlife experiences, scenic cruises, and dolphin swimming tours, providing visitors from around the world with memorable marine adventures.
With a strong commitment to safety, customer service, and environmental stewardship, E KO Tours combines experienced maritime professionals with passionate tourism staff to deliver high-quality experiences while showcasing New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Cruise Captain Job Description
As a Cruise Captain, you will be responsible for safely operating tour vessels while delivering exceptional experiences for guests exploring Queen Charlotte Sound.
Beyond vessel navigation, the role involves leading onboard operations, supervising crew members, maintaining safety standards, completing regulatory documentation, and ensuring every tour operates efficiently and on schedule.
Successful candidates will receive training in dolphin swimming operations where required, allowing them to confidently guide visitors through one of New Zealand’s most unique wildlife experiences.
Key Responsibilities
As a Cruise Captain with E KO Tours, your responsibilities will include:
- Safely operating tour vessels within Queen Charlotte Sound.
- Completing captain training for dolphin swimming tours.
- Delivering engaging onboard commentary and captain’s information.
- Providing exceptional customer service to tourists.
- Completing vessel maintenance independently.
- Preparing and maintaining all required MOSS documentation.
- Training onboard staff on operational procedures and safety requirements.
- Managing tour schedules to ensure timely departures and arrivals.
- Handling vessels confidently in varying weather conditions.
- Working closely with the Senior Captain and Operations Manager to improve operational efficiency.
- Demonstrating professionalism, leadership, and excellent presentation at all times.
Qualifications and Requirements
Applicants should possess:
- Local Launch Operator qualification with Radar Course or an equivalent certification.
- Over 12-metre endorsement for Restricted Limits.
- Strong vessel handling skills.
- Leadership and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Good time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team.
The company welcomes applications from:
Experienced Captains
- More than two years’ experience operating vessels over 12 metres.
Trainee Captains
- Less than two years’ experience operating vessels over 12 metres.
- Willingness to complete training and develop professionally.
Skills That Will Help You Succeed
Successful Cruise Captains typically demonstrate:
- Marine navigation expertise.
- Strong leadership skills.
- Excellent interpersonal communication.
- Customer service excellence.
- Safety awareness.
- Problem-solving ability.
- Confidence under pressure.
- Team collaboration.
- Attention to detail.
- Mechanical awareness for vessel maintenance.
Why Join E KO Tours?
Joining E KO Tours provides an opportunity to combine a maritime career with New Zealand’s thriving tourism industry.
Employees enjoy:
- Flexible full-time or part-time employment options.
- Apprenticeship and trainee opportunities.
- Hands-on marine tourism experience.
- Ongoing professional development.
- Supportive and experienced leadership.
- Daily interaction with international visitors.
- Opportunity to work in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful marine environments.
- Experience leading dolphin swimming and wildlife tours.
Career Opportunities
Working as a Cruise Captain can lead to long-term career advancement across the marine and tourism industries.
Professionals in this field often progress into roles such as:
- Senior Captain
- Marine Operations Supervisor
- Harbour Operations Manager
- Tourism Operations Manager
- Marine Safety Officer
- Commercial Vessel Master
- Marine Training Instructor
The combination of maritime operations and customer service experience is highly valued throughout New Zealand’s tourism sector.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
- A current CV.
- A cover letter outlining relevant maritime experience and qualifications.
Applications should be sent to:
Email: paul@e-ko.nz or Apply Here
Applicants are encouraged to highlight:
- Vessel operating experience.
- Marine certifications.
- Tourism or hospitality experience.
- Leadership experience.
- Wildlife tour experience (if applicable).
Early applications are recommended, as suitable candidates may be contacted before recruitment closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the job located?
The position is based in Picton, New Zealand, operating within Queen Charlotte Sound.
Is previous captain experience required?
Yes. Experienced Captains should have more than two years’ experience operating vessels over 12 metres. However, trainee captains with less experience are also encouraged to apply.
Is dolphin swimming experience required?
No. Previous experience is preferred but not essential, as successful candidates will receive training.
Is this a full-time position?
The role offers flexible employment options, including full-time, part-time, and apprenticeship/traineeship opportunities.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants should hold a Local Launch Operator qualification with Radar Course (or equivalent) and an endorsement for vessels over 12 metres operating within Restricted Limits.
Why This Cruise Captain Opportunity Stands Out
Marine tourism continues to grow across New Zealand, creating increasing demand for skilled professionals who can combine safe vessel operation with exceptional customer service.
Unlike many maritime roles, this position allows successful candidates to interact with visitors from around the world while showcasing one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal regions. The combination of wildlife encounters, tourism, leadership, and marine operations makes this an exciting opportunity for both experienced captains and aspiring maritime professionals.
Whether you are looking to advance your maritime career or take your first step into commercial vessel operations, E KO Tours offers a rewarding environment where professionalism, teamwork, and unforgettable guest experiences remain at the heart of every journey.