COOK
Start: 14 May 2025
End: 10 October 2025
Application Deadline: 1 March 2025
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Traverse Tall Ship Company is now accepting applications for the position of Cook aboard Schooner Manitou. Manitou is an inspected, steel-hulled, gaff-topsail schooner 77 feet LOA, based in the thriving tourist town of Traverse City, Michigan. She conducts multiple sails each day on the waters of Grand Traverse Bay.
PROGRAM & ITINERARY:
Schooner Manitou begins the season with a six-week fit-out and rig-up period. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, she operates seven days per week, offering between three and four public sails per day, with bunch cruises on the weekends, and 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.
In September, Manitou offers a series of two- to five-day overnight passenger Windjammer cruises to the picturesque anchorages and fascinating towns of Grand Traverse Bay and beyond.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Cook is responsible for providing three meals per day for Manitou’s crew of up to eight hands. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Manitou hosts brunch sails for up to 48 passengers. The meals on these sails can range from collaborations with local restaurants to innovative creations from the ship’s galley, depending on the preference of the cook. Manitou’s galley includes a wood stove and a large sink, although there are some limitations on electrical appliance use.
Additional responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of galley cleanliness and preparedness, provisioning the galley, and providing some pre-prepped meals for the crew for the cook’s days off.
All crew are continuously trained in all aspects of vessel operations: the cook can obtain valuable experience in rigging, small boat operations, ship handling, and other areas, if interested. 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.
QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:
The Cook must have a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and the ability to interact with the public and shipmates in an upbeat and professional manner. Food handling training is required (can be arranged through the company if not held). Applicants must be physically able to perform the required duties.
Traditional sailing experience is preferred, but not essential.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
$2,420 to $5,100 monthly
Compensation includes:
Monthly salary, plus significant gratuities ~$100 per day (Low end of pay range is for uprig & downrig, without tips; High end includes tips, and covers 4½ months of the contract)
Room and board on Manitou
Two days off per week
Travel reimbursement up to $300
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS:
HOW TO APPLY:
Contact Person: Jamie Trost – jamie@tallshipsailing.com
Application Requirements: Resume, References, Cover Letter