Captain – River Thames

Job Description

 Full time permanent position

As a Captain you’ll take pride in safely operating our clients iconic passenger vessels on the River Thames while delivering exceptional experiences to thousands of guests each year.

This is a highly visible, customer‑facing role combining professional vessel command with leadership, teamwork and hospitality. You’ll work with a supportive crew, operate within a strong safety-first culture, and be trusted to represent one of the UK’s most established maritime brands.

Why Join 

• Competitive salary of £43,711.  Progression to the next grade and salary increase to £52,108 within 3 – 6 months, dependent on a successful training period.
• A unique working environment on one of the world’s most famous rivers
• Great work/life balance on a rotational 3 days on, 2 days off shift pattern.  Earliest start time is 08:15, and latest finish time is 19:05 (winter season) and 20:30 (summer season)
• Ongoing training and CPD, fully funded support to maintain and expand your qualifications
• Clear career progression opportunities within a global organisation
• A strong, inclusive team culture
• Free and discounted experiences across Group brands
• Exposure to a wide range of operations, from sightseeing cruises to dining experiences and private charters

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain the highest standards of safety for passengers and crew
• Ensure compliance with SMS, ‘Passage Plan’,  PLA by-laws and maritime regulations
• Conduct safety briefings, announcements and onboard training

Vessel Operations

• Navigate and manoeuvre vessels safely on the River Thames
• Oversee mooring, embarking and disembarking procedures
• Complete daily vessel checks, logs and maintenance reporting

Leadership & Customer Experience

• Lead and support onboard crew, setting a professional example
• Deliver a welcoming, informative and enjoyable experience for passengers
• Act as an ambassador  RESPECT values and brand

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Boat Master’s Licence (BML) Tier 1 Level 2
• Local Knowledge Endorsement (LKE)
• STCW95 certification
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience as Captain on passenger vessels

Desirable

• Large Passenger Vessel (LPV) endorsement

(Applicants without an LPV will still be considered.  Where necessary, we will support successful candidates in obtaining this endorsement)

• Experience in hospitality or tourism-led marine operations
• Strong working knowledge of Safety Management Systems (SMS) and DSM or ISM principles
• Thames guiding or commentary experience

Applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK