Flotilla Skipper

Job Title: Flotilla Skipper

Company: Sailing Holidays LTD

Location: Corfu, Greece

Please note: Due to visa requirements, we can only accept applications from UK or EU Passport Holders

About Us:

At Sailing Holidays, we pride ourselves on providing unrivalled sailing experiences. Our team of dedicated professionals ensures that our clients have memorable and enjoyable holidays on the water. We're looking for a passionate and skilled Flotilla Skipper to join our dynamic team.

Role Overview:

As a Flotilla Skipper, you will be responsible for leading a team and providing exceptional support to our clients. Your strong leadership skills, calm demeanour in challenging situations, and ability to communicate effectively will be essential in ensuring our clients feel confident and secure during their sailing adventures.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Build Up (Pre-Season):

This is a learning curve for all sailors and you will be thoroughly immersed in the refit of your own fleet. The charter season begins at the end of April so the few months prior are spent de-winterising the boats and getting them ready for charter. Skippers usually start arriving around the beginning of March and spend the first week or two doing general maintenance checks and fits before starting the build-up on their fleet of 10-12 boats.

Our program will give you enviable skills that you will not gain with any of our competitors. Our build-up program includes:

• De-winterise and prepare the fleet of 10-12 boats for charter.
• De-fouling propellers and replacing anodes before launching
• Checking and replacing all deck fittings were necessary
• Assisting engineers with out-of–water work
• Checking skin fittings
• Launching
• Replacing running rigging
• Hoisting anchors
• Servicing winches
• Hoisting sails
• Fitting biminis
• Fitting guardrails
• Checking dinghies
• Splicing and whipping ropes

2. Sailing Season:

The charter season starts at the end of April and continues through until the end of October. During this time you will be living and working as one of a team of three on your Lead Boat. There is no hierarchy on the Lead Boat, regardless of position and the best lead crews work together as a team respecting each other’s skills and opinions.

• Work collaboratively with a team of three on your Lead Boat, respecting each other’s skills and opinions.
• Conduct client briefings on the first day of the flotilla, outlining safety protocols and yacht operation.
• Monitor and manage mooring, ensuring safety during storms or high winds.
• Provide assistance with client issues related to sails or rigging, both in port and at sea.
• Complete scheduled services every fortnight and maintain the condition of client dinghies.
   

3. Lay-Up (Post-Season):

Lay-up, at the end of the season, normally lasts for two weeks. During this period all the yachts are prepared for the winter. Skippers are required to:

• Prepare boats for lifting
• Wash and dry, fold and label all sails, biminis and sun awnings
• Wash, dry and pack dinghies in complete sets
• Wash and powder all ropes and store
• Drop all anchors
• Remove all guardrails
• Check and record all damage to hull/gel coat/deck
• Note any damage to rigging
• Cover all hatches and make the boats watertight

Qualifications & Skills

• RYA DS or YM, other skipper licenses from a reputable organisation in the EU.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and assertive in challenging situations.
• Experience in sailing and knowledge of boat maintenance.
• Tidy appearance and professionalism, as you represent the company to clients.
• A friendly and approachable demeanour, especially when working with beginners.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity for those who love sailing and want to share that passion with others. A career with Sailing Holidays will give you highly sought-after industry skills and connections that will last a lifetime. If you’re ready to take on the challenge and be part of our dedicated team, we’d love to hear from you!

Don't have a sailing qualification?

Don't worry! We have an number of shore-based roles available for Skippers, Engineers, and Hosts with training and support provided to help you progress to Lead Crew.

How to Apply:

If you think you have what it takes to be a Flotilla Skipper with Sailing Holidays, please send your CV and a covering letter to our Recruitment Team at [email protected]. Alternatively, click below to fill out our application form. Join us in creating unforgettable sailing experiences!

If you want to find out more about the role please follow this link: https://www.sailingholidays.com/about-us/join-the-team/