Master - Coastal Towage

Lead From the Wheelhouse

Svitzer is looking for an experienced Tug Master to join the Victory, supporting towage operations across UK ports and coastal waters. This is a role that goes beyond routine harbour work—near coastal towage brings variety, challenge, and the expectation that you are calm, decisive and ready to take command.

This is not a ceremonial command. Working as Master on a coastal tug demands sound judgement, strong ship-handling skills, leadership and pride in doing things properly. You’ll live onboard, work hard during your time on, and lead the crew in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.

If you want hands‑on maritime responsibility on a powerful vessel, working in real operations and trusted to make the right call, this could be the right command for you.

• Taking command of the Victory and leading a close‑knit crew in dynamic, real‑world operations
• Handling assisted ships safely and decisively across UK ports and coastal routes
• Setting the safety standard on board and making sure it is lived, not laminated
• Leading and developing the crew, creating a culture of trust, professionalism and accountability
• Maintaining vessel readiness, documentation, operational reporting, hours of rest and onboard standards
• Working closely with Port Managers, Harbour Pilots, port authorities and other operational stakeholders
• Taking ownership of vessel husbandry, planned maintenance, stores and bunkering to keep the Victory operationally ready
• If you take pride in your vessel, your crew and your decisions, you’ll fit in well here

• Because tug command should mean something.
• 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off rotation – clear structure and proper time away
• Living onboard during your working period – no daily commuting
• Work across UK ports and coastal operations – variety and challenge built in
• Real responsibility, strong safety culture and high operational standards
• A global company with local teams that support their Masters and crews
• Training, development and long‑term career opportunities

• Competitive salary of £70,722.46 per annum
• Permanent, time for time contract
• Pension matched up to 10%
• Life Cover (4x pensionable salary) and Single Private Medical Insurance
• 7 days leave after 3 years’ service
• Employee Assistance Programme

• Master