Waterfront Tour Captain

Purpose of Position

To safely operate tour vessels and provide an enjoyable on‑water experience for visitors.

• SABINO (56’ historic wooden steamboat with a diesel-electric drive). Operates ten‑hour days, daily, May 22 – October 18.
• MYSTIC SEAPORT EXPRESS (25’ diesel‑powered launch). Operates 8‑hour days, weekends and holidays May 16-June 14 and Sept 12-27, and daily June 19–Sept 7.
• LIBERTY (40’ diesel‑powered launch). Operates as a charter‑only vessel/short distance shuttle and as an emergency response/tow vessel.
• ENCORE (motor yacht for charter). Operates as a charter‑only vessel, 3‑ or 5‑hour downriver charters into Fishers Island Sound.
• BRECK MARSHALL (20’ gaff‑rigged sailboat, no engine). Operates six‑hour days, weekends, and holidays May 23-June 14 and Sept 12-September 27, and daily June 20–Sept 7.

The ability to run all vessels is not required – captains will be assigned vessels based on training, comfort in operating, museum’s scheduling needs, and captain’s availability.

• Safely operate the vessel assigned in a variety of weather conditions while providing passengers of various ages and diverse backgrounds an excellent experience.
• Ensure USCG regulations are followed.
• Enjoy interacting with museum guests, volunteers, and the public.
• Maintain a good‑natured attitude in a highly fluid environment.
• Ensure passenger safety.
• Help mentor and train deckhands (SABINO).
• Communicate any problems, issues or maintenance needs to supervisor.

• USCG 25‑ton inland captains license for EXPRESS, ENCORE, and LIBERTY.
• USCG 50‑ton inland captains license for SABINO.
• Inland OUPV and a high level of sailing skills for BRECK MARSHALL.
• Willingness to undergo scheduled and random drug testing.
• High degree of skill in handling single‑screw vessels of equivalent size.
• Must be comfortable operating a vessel in heavy vessel traffic, under varied tides and weather conditions.
• Willingness to work evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Interest in and ability to interact with Museum visitors to better their understanding of the work at hand as well as the broader educational goals of the Museum.
• Ability to communicate effectively with passengers.
• Ability to give a tour to visitors of the waterfront and Museum.
• Ability to pass work‑related skills to other staff and volunteers.
• Ability to lift moderately heavy loads.
• Ability to assist passengers board and disembark as needed.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others in a highly fluid environment.
• Must be able to access boats, floats, and bilges.

The nature of the work involved requires extended periods outdoors in all weather conditions during spring, summer, and fall. This position requires an ability to maintain high levels of visual and mental concentration for extended periods of time and requires positive interaction with the public. The incumbent interacts with a broad range of individuals including fellow staff, visitors, volunteers, trustees, vendors, etc.

In all of these interactions, the reputation of Mystic Seaport and the Watercraft Area are  is essential that a high degree of professionalism be exhibited at all times.