Job Description

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The Boathouse Group operates a portfolio of iconic coastal venues across Sydney and the Central Coast, including Boathouse Ferry Co. — home to the much-loved Merinda II , a classic 50-foot timber passenger ferry built by Norman Wright & Sons in 1983. Since 2021, we've proudly continued the Palm Beach–Patonga–ferry service, carrying locals and visitors across one of the most beautiful stretches of water in NSW

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We're looking for an experienced, community-minded Skipper to take the helm of this much-loved local institution.

About Us n

The Boathouse Group operates a portfolio of iconic coastal venues across Sydney and the Central Coast, including Boathouse Ferry Co. — home to the much-loved Merinda II , a classic 50-foot timber passenger ferry built by Norman Wright & Sons in 1983. Since 2021, we've proudly continued the Palm Beach–Patonga–ferry service, carrying locals and visitors across one of the most beautiful stretches of water in NSW

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We're looking for an experienced, community-minded Skipper to take the helm of this much-loved local institution.

The Role n

As Skipper of the Merinda II, you'll be responsible for the safe, reliable, and friendly operation of our passenger ferry service between Palm Beach, Patonga, and Newport. This is more than a driving job — you're the face of the ferry, a custodian of a genuine piece of Pittwater history, and a key part of the daily rhythm of the communities we serve.

Key Responsibilities n

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Safely skipper the Merinda II across all scheduled services, in line with the published timetable

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Conduct pre-departure vessel safety checks, including engine, safety equipment, and passenger capacity compliance

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Deliver a warm, welcoming experience for passengers — locals and tourists alike

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Maintain accurate passenger counts, manifests, and any required regulatory reporting

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Perform or coordinate routine vessel maintenance and liaise on scheduled servicing/dry-docking

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Monitor weather, tide, and sea conditions and make sound operational judgement calls, including service delays or cancellations when required

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Handle onboard sales of snacks, drinks, and merchandise where applicable

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Work closely with the Boathouse Group operations team on scheduling, compliance, and service standards

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Support occasional charter, private event, or wedding bookings aboard the vessel

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What You'll Need nn
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A current AMSA Master <24m Near Coastal (NC) Certificate of Competency (or higher), given the Merinda II's length (~15.2m)

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Current NSW coastal bar crossing licence (or willingness to obtain one) if operating conditions require it

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Current Marine Radio Operator's Certificate

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Valid First Aid certificate (HLTAID011 or equivalent)

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Proven sea service experience, ideally on passenger vessels or in similar coastal/harbour conditions

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Sound knowledge of local waters — Pittwater, Broken Bay, and the Hawkesbury River approaches — highly regarded

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A genuine passion for hospitality and customer service; this is a public-facing role

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Reliability and flexibility — ferry schedules mean early starts, weekend and public holiday work, and seasonal variation in hours

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A proactive, safety-first mindset and sound decision-making under changing conditions

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What We Offer nn
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Full-time, stable employment with one of Sydney's most respected hospitality groups

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Competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications

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The chance to skipper a genuinely iconic vessel with deep local heritage

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A supportive team workplace as part of the wider Boathouse Group family

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Opportunities to be involved in special charters, events, and the broader life of the business

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📌 Ferry Captain (Sydney)
🏢 Boathouse Group
📍 Sydney