Senior Cruise Operations Consultant

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Cruise Operations Consultant to join their Cruise Division in Paarden Eiland, Cape Town. This is a hands-on operations role focused on coordinating and managing the on-the-ground logistics for international cruise ships visiting South Africa, Mozambique and Angola.

Please note:

This is not a cruise reservations or cruise sales role. The successful candidate will be responsible for operational delivery, supplier coordination, logistics management and service execution during the cruise season.

• Manage the operational delivery of shore excursions, overland programmes, hotel stays, turnaround services, and pre/post cruise arrangements.
  
  Re-quote services and ensure operational feasibility of all programmes.
• Source, negotiate, and manage supplier rates and relationships.
• Ensure all bookings, reservations, and services are confirmed and operationally ready.
• Prepare movement schedules, welcome letters, guide packs, and operational documentation.
• Liaise with cruise agents, onboard teams, guides, port managers, suppliers, and operational partners.
• Coordinate and support port operations during vessel calls.
• Manage waitlists, confirmations, amendments, and service changes.
• Process supplier invoices and assist with final client invoicing.
• Maintain service excellence, accuracy, and strict turnaround times.
• Assist with operational problem-solving and emergency support when required.

• Minimum 5 years' experience within an inbound tour operating or travel operations environment at senior consultant level.
• Strong understanding of travel operations, logistics, and supplier management.
• Excellent knowledge of Southern African travel products and destinations.
• Experience with costing, quoting, and managing operational budgets.
• Advanced Excel skills.
• Strong administration and coordination abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and perform under pressure.

• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong organisational and planning skills
• Supplier negotiation experience
• Relationship-building skills
• Customer service excellence
• Problem-solving ability
• Time management and deadline-driven approach
• Stress tolerance and adaptability
• Strong commercial awareness and operational knowledge

We are looking for a hands-on operations professional who thrives in a busy environment, enjoys managing complex logistics, and has a passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences.

Candidates with cruise operations, inbound tourism, destination management, tour operating, or hospitality coordination experience will be highly regarded.

• Discovery Medical Aid (50% company contribution for main member plus one dependant)
• Pension Fund (50% company contribution)
• Risk Benefits
• Opportunity to work within an international cruise and travel environment
• Exposure to large-scale cruise operations across Southern Africa