Season Skipper

The Swan Trust SCIO is looking for a season skipper for Swan, a 20m Fife gaff ketch based in Lerwick. The season runs from 1 April to 30 September 2027, sailing around Shetland, north-east Scotland and the Faroe Islands.

The role:

• Join the established Mate and volunteer crew aboard Swan
• Oversee the safety and operation of the vessel
• Deliver quality sail training skills to passengers of all ages
• Work on sail training voyages, with some private charter and public trips, including international passages
• Manage your working hours flexibly around the seasonal diary
• Record hours of rest on the timesheets provided

What's on offer:

• Salary of £30,000 to £35,000 pro rata, depending on experience
• 38 days annual leave, pro rata
• A job share may be possible for the right candidate

• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, commercially endorsed, or equivalent MCA qualification
• Radio Operators Licence
• Current ENG1
• STCW Proficiency in Medical Care certificate, or its predecessor, the STCW Ship's Captain's Medical Certificate
• Diesel Engine course
• Sea Survival course
• MCA approved Fire Fighting course
• Radar Training course (completed prior to December 2025)
• Food Hygiene Level 2
• Experience of sail training with young people
• General engine maintenance skills are an advantage
• Disclosure Scotland check required