Scout Relief Captain​/Manitou Relief Mate Traverse Tall Ship Sail North

JOB DESCRIPTION

Start: 18 May 2026 End: 6 September 2026 Final date to receive applications: 1 March 2026

Traverse Tall Ship Company is seeking a licensed mate looking for command experience to serve as Scout Relief Captain/Manitou Relief Mate. Scout is a Cabo Rico 38 that operates as an uninspected vessel for small‑group adventures, and Manitou is an inspected, steel‑hulled, gaff‑topsail schooner 77 feet LOA. Both vessels are based in the thriving tourist town of Traverse City, Michigan and both conduct multiple sails each day on the waters of Grand Traverse Bay.

The Relief Captain/Relief Mate will split time between the vessels in a five‑day on, two‑day off rotation, with three days a week sailing as Captain of Scout and two days a week relieving the Mate of Manitou. While aboard Scout, the Relief Captain can single‑hand or have a deckhand as crew, and have a deckhand on all‑day excursions to the county park of Power Island.

Aboard Manitou, the Relief Mate will assist the Captain in all aspects of vessel operation and can expect to gain valuable experience in rigging, small boat operations, ship handling, and personnel management.

Scout operates seven days a week from Memorial Day through early October, sailing multiple times per day from her well‑appointed marina berth. Her base offering is a two‑hour excursion in the afternoon or for sunset. She also runs a longer trip to allow passengers to explore Power Island, a county park only accessible by boat. The goal of all excursions is for all passengers to have an experience onboard that can serve as the capstone of their vacation or summer.

Manitou operates seven days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering between three and four public sails per day, with occasional themed sails. All sails run from the vessel’s home berth at Discovery Pier, with extensive shore support. The goal of all excursions is for all passengers to have an experience onboard that can serve as the capstone of their vacation or summer.

The Relief Captain/Relief Mate is responsible for safe and efficient operations, ensuring excellent passenger interactions, and vessel upkeep. All crew are expected to be highly attentive to vessel presentation, maintain the highest level of professionalism and customer service, and abide by all training and safety protocols, as outlined in the crew handbook and company policies.

• Auxiliary Sail‑endorsed Great Lakes or Near Coastal OUPV required, Great Lakes or Near Coastal 25 GRT preferred
• STCW NOT required
• Previous command time preferred but not essential
• CPR/First Aid certification required (can be arranged after hiring)
• Valid driver’s license highly preferred

$4,850 monthly

• Monthly salary, plus significant gratuities ~$100+ per day (included in pay range as displayed)
• Room and board on Manitou
• Two days off per week
• Travel stipend up to $315
• License insurance stipend

• License
  
  Required:
  
  Master
• Tonnage: OUPV or 25 GRT
• Where Sails:
  Near Coastal, Great Lakes

Contact Person:
Captain Jamie Trost –

Application Requirements:
Resume, References, Cover Letter