The posting
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Port Captain to oversee the safe, compliant and efficient marine operations of a fleet of 4 landing craft.
The successful candidate will provide shore-based operational support to vessel Masters and deck officers, ensure the fleet remains inspection-ready and maintain compliance with flag, class, port-state and customer requirements. This is a hands-on position involving regular vessel visits, incident investigations, crew development and frequent regional travel.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the safe and efficient marine operations of 4 landing craft.
- Provide operational guidance and support to Masters, Chief Officers and shipboard teams.
- Ensure vessels comply with flag-state, port-state, class, IMO, ISM and ISPS requirements.
- Coordinate vessel inspections, audits, surveys and the closure of any findings.
- Conduct regular vessel visits, including port and sailing inspections.
- Lead onboard safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture across the fleet.
- Investigate incidents, near misses and non-conformities, including root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Monitor vessel readiness, navigation practices, cargo operations and marine equipment.
- Support the development of operating procedures for landing-craft operations, including beaching, ramp operations, cargo securing and heavy-equipment movements.
- Assess the operational implications of converting or transitioning former naval craft for commercial use.
- Monitor voyage performance, fuel consumption and operational efficiency.
- Coordinate with terminals, ports, agents, customers, classification societies and regulatory authorities.
- Support emergency-response activities and provide marine expertise during vessel incidents.
- Evaluate and mentor Masters and Chief Officers and support recruitment, promotion and competency assessments.
- Deliver training and familiarisation on operational procedures, safety systems and company requirements.
- Provide management with timely updates on vessel performance, operational risks and regulatory matters.
- Travel regularly to attend vessels and support regional operations.
Requirements
- Degree or diploma in Nautical Studies, Maritime Transportation or a related discipline.
- Master Mariner Certificate of Competency or an equivalent internationally recognised STCW qualification.
- At least 8 years of maritime experience, including seagoing service as a senior deck officer.
- Previous experience as a Port Captain, Marine Superintendent or Marine Operations Manager.
- Experience with landing craft, naval vessels, RoRo vessels, heavy-lift operations, offshore vessels or similar vessel types would be highly advantageous.
- Good understanding of ramp operations, cargo securing, stability and the carriage of vehicles or heavy equipment.
- Strong knowledge of flag, class, port-state, ISM, ISPS and applicable IMO requirements.
- Experience conducting marine incidents investigations and root-cause analysis.
- Demonstrated ability to coach and develop Masters and senior deck officers.
- Strong communication, leadership and stakeholder-management skills.
- Willing and able to travel frequently and attend vessels outside normal working hours when required.



