LussoMare Ltd is located in Auckland, New Zealand, specialising in exclusive private travel experiences through a growing fleet of high-end vessels. Our services are designed to specifically service the luxury travel market.
As our company grows, we are looking for a Skipper/Fleet Operations Supervisor — someone who not only excels at vessel command but is ready to grow into a broader operational role, helping manage and shape the future of our business.
Role Summary:
This is a hands-on, evolving position at the core of Lussomare’s operations. As our lead Skipper, you will be responsible for the safe, compliant, and polished operation of our vessels while also supporting the wider development of fleet operations and marine logistics. This role is ideal for a candidate looking for more than a traditional skippering job — someone eager to contribute to a growing business, lead from the front, and take ownership of operational excellence.
We’re looking for a team player with strong technical capability, excellent communication, and a keen willingness to “get stuck in” to a wide range of tasks, often outside of traditional hours.
The person who takes this role will be a key participant in the growth of the company.
Key Responsibilities:
- Skipper Lussomare vessels in line with Maritime New Zealand regulations and luxury service standards.
- Ensure full compliance with MNZ regulations and the vessel’s Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP), including:
- Risk management procedures
- Operational limits
- Safety drills and emergency preparedness
- Reporting and documentation
- Maintain vessels to impeccable cosmetic and mechanical standards, including scheduling and supervising routine maintenance.
- Lead by example during charters, transfers, and special operations, ensuring a seamless and memorable guest experience.
- Support fleet expansion by contributing to planning, vessel maintenance programmes, and crew development.
- Assist, manage and organising charter preparations including provisioning for guest trips
- Coordinate with marine service providers, clients, and internal stakeholders as needed.
- Supervise and mentor junior crew, if applicable, fostering a high-performing team culture.
- Be flexible with working hours and responsibilities — including weekends, holidays, and after-hours when required.
Certification Requirements:
- MNZ Skipper Certificate
- Minimum: Skipper Restricted Limits (SRL)
- MNZ Endorsements (Minimum):
- 24m Endorsement
- Passenger Endorsement
- First Aid Certification
- Maritime First Aid or equivalent – valid and up to date
- Marine VHF Operator Certificate
- ROC or GMDSS
- Medical Certificate (Fit for Duty)
- MNZ-approved (e.g. ML5 or Seafarer Medical), issued within the last 2 years
- Valid New Zealand Driver’s Licence
Experience Requirements:
- Professional Vessel Operation
- Minimum 2–5 years’ experience as a commercial skipper
- Proven ability to safely operate vessels up to 24m
- Luxury Charter or Superyacht Background
- Experience in high-end guest-facing roles
- Strong understanding of guest safety, discretion, and tailored service
- Crew Management
- Experience supervising crew and managing small onboard teams
- Maintenance & Systems Knowledge
- Confident with day-to-day upkeep of vessel systems including engines, electronics, and safety gear
- Navigation & Passage Planning
- Proficient in coastal/offshore navigation using GPS, radar, ECDIS, and traditional methods
- Emergency Situations
- Demonstrated calm leadership during drills and real emergencies
- Client Relations & Service Delivery
- High-level interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage client expectations and deliver bespoke experiences to VIPs
- Full Compliance with MNZ and MTOP Requirements
- Clear understanding and commitment to regulatory compliance
- Familiarity with operational reporting, safety systems, and audit readiness
What We Offer:
- A leadership role in a premium marine business with strong growth potential
- Competitive salary (commensurate with experience and certifications)
- Variety in work — skippering, operations, and strategy
- Opportunities for long-term career growth and added responsibilities
- A dynamic and supportive team culture, where initiative is valued
- Health benefits
- Company bonus scheme
To apply, please send your CV and a short introduction to careers@lussomare.co.nz — we’d love to hear about your experience and why this role excites you.