Company Overview
Operating year-round for private charters and catering, Harbour Cruises is Vancouver’s leader in boat cruise entertainment. We are proud to offer Vancouver’s only narrated tour of the inner-harbour, and the city’s most popular dinner, and luncheon cruises. In addition to retail cruise products, private corporate events, and special event cruises, we also offer a unique and delightful way to experience the city. We are known for our attentive and efficient onboard staff, and professionally prepared cuisine. We are committed to ensuring that our guests’ cruises are events they will remember and repeat! Based out of Vancouver Harbour in beautiful Vancouver, BC - we are dedicated to offering our guests the highest standards of customer service, quality and professionalism in the hospitality industry.
Summary
We are seeking Captains and Mates to join our dynamic team based in Vancouver. Harbour Cruises is currently hiring Casual Mates and Masters for the 2026 season (July–October), with opportunities to continue beyond the season. We are looking for safety-focused, professional Officers who enjoy working in a fast-paced passenger vessel environment. Master applicants must be willing and qualified to work in both Master and Mate positions as operationally required.
Responsibilities
- Safely operate passenger vessels in accordance with Transport Canada regulations and company procedures.
- Navigate in busy harbour environments while maintaining the highest standards of safety.
- Conduct passenger safety briefings and emergency procedures when required.
- Supervise crew members and promote a positive safety culture.
- Assist with docking, mooring, departures, and arrivals.
- Provide outstanding customer service to passengers.
- Complete required vessel inspections, documentation, and operational reports.
Qualifications
- Masters: Minimum Transport Canada Master 150 GT, Domestic Certificate of Competency (or higher).
- Mates: Minimum Transport Canada Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency (or higher).
- Valid Marine Medical and all other certificates required for the position.
- Previous experience operating passenger vessels is considered an asset.
- Experience operating in Vancouver Harbour and navigating in high-traffic or confined waterways is strongly preferred.
- Strong communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.
- Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
Operational Flexibility
All newly hired Officers begin in a Mate position to become familiar with Harbour Cruises' operations, routes, procedures, and Safety Management System. Qualified candidates may later be evaluated for Master clearance. Once cleared, Masters may be scheduled in either Master or Mate positions based on operational requirements. Compensation is paid according to the role worked for each assigned shift.
Union Membership
This position is covered by the Canadian Merchant Service Guild (CMSG) collective agreement. Successful candidates will be required to become members of the Canadian Merchant Service Guild.
Compensation is based on the position worked for each assigned shift:
- Master: $55.36/hour
- First Mate: $47.89/hour
- Second Mate: $45.51/hour
If you are interested in joining Harbour Cruises for the 2026 season and beyond, we encourage you to apply through Indeed. Please include your resume and copies of your relevant marine certificates with your application.
Pay: $45.00-$55.00 per hour
Work Location: In person