Job Position: Captain / Eagle Wing Tours
Vessel Captain – Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours
Job Overview
Eagle Wing Tours is seeking experienced and safety-focused Vessel Captains to join our award-winning whale watching team in Victoria, BC.
Captains are responsible for the safe operation of the vessel, ensuring the safety of guests and crew while delivering exceptional wildlife viewing experiences in the Salish Sea. This role includes overseeing vessel operations, supervising crew members, maintaining high tour standards, and strictly following ethical wildlife viewing practices.
Eagle Wing Captains are expected to demonstrate professional seamanship, strong situational awareness, and a deep respect for marine wildlife. The ability to operate safely in dynamic marine environments while delivering a positive guest experience is essential.
Our captains are ambassadors for responsible whale watching and are expected to uphold the highest standards of wildlife viewing ethics in the Salish Sea.
Availability: Must be available evenings, weekends, and holidays during the operating season.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate vessels during daily whale watching tours
- Follow Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) Best Practices for responsible wildlife viewing
- Lead and supervise First Mate/Naturalist crew members
- Monitor weather conditions and oversee all safety procedures
- Prepare vessels for departure (fueling, safety checks, cleaning)
- Oversee vessel upkeep and basic maintenance
- Maintain accurate daily ship logs
- Ensure vessels are cleaned and prepared after each trip
- Maintain a high standard of guest experience and tour quality
- Assist with guest suit-up when necessary
- Provide content for the daily Captain’s Report
Required Certifications & Qualifications
- Transport Canada Master Limited 60 Tonne License with an U-SVMO (unrestricted engineers ticket) OR 150T ticket or greater
- Transport Canada Marine Emergency Duties A2 (MED A2)
- Transport Canada Marine First Aid
- Transport Canada Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate (ROC-M)
- Transport Canada Small Vessel Operator’s Certificate
Additional requirements:
- Strong boat handling and seamanship skills
- Detail-oriented with a strong safety mindset
- Team-oriented with leadership capability
- Ability to work flexible and extended hours during peak season
- Cell phone with voicemail and active email
Preferred Experience
- Experience operating vessels in marine tourism or whale watching
- Background in ecotourism or marine wildlife interpretation
- Knowledge of Canadian and U.S. wildlife viewing regulations
- Familiarity with Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) guidelines
Captains must be well versed in Canadian and U.S. laws regarding wildlife viewing and must adhere strictly to the Pacific Whale Watch Association Best Practices.
The techniques required to observe whales without interfering with their natural behavior take time to develop and require additional skills beyond basic vessel operation. Eagle Wing Tours is committed to setting the highest standard for responsible whale watching.
Why Work at Eagle Wing Tours?
Eagle Wing Tours is an award-winning whale watching company dedicated to conservation, sustainability, and education.
- Rated #1 on TripAdvisor since 2007
- Carbon neutral since 2009
- Committed to protecting the wildlife and ecosystems of the Salish Sea
Our team is passionate about responsible marine tourism. As a Captain, you will play a key role in delivering unforgettable wildlife experiences while supporting conservation and education efforts in the region.
Job Details
Job Type: SeasonalSeason Mid June-Mid September 2026 (More details can be discussed in person regarding expectations)
Pay: ($40-$60/hr) based upon experience and our internal wage formulae (3 month probation period)
Benefits
- Discounted or free food
- Flexible schedule
Location: Fisherman's Wharf, Victoria BC (required)
Job Type: Seasonal
Pay: $40.00-$60.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Flexible schedule
Location:
Work Location: In person
