SCOUT RELIEF CAPTAIN/MANITOU RELIEF MATE

Start: 19 May 2025
End: 7 September 2025
Application Deadline: 1 April 2025

JOB DESCRIPTION:
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 will always have the assistance of 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.

PROGRAM & ITINERARY:
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.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
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.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:
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 is highly preferred

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
$4,600 monthly
Compensation includes:
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 $300
License insurance stipend

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

HOW TO APPLY:
Contact Person: Jamie Trost – jamie@tallshipsailing.com
Application Requirements: Resume, References, Cover Letter