MS Cape Race

Stew/Deck - Temporary / Seasonal - €3500 - United Kingdom

Position: Deckhand

Job Overview: The Deckhand is an essential member of the yacht's crew, responsible for assisting in all aspects of deck, engine room, and bridge operations. This includes performing navigational duties, handling anchoring, managing vessel maintenance tasks, supporting Zodiac operations, and ensuring the cleanliness and organization of exterior spaces. The role also involves supporting the galley and housekeeping teams as needed, with a focus on teamwork, efficiency and safety. As part of an expedition crew in remote, often extreme Arctic conditions, the Deckhand must be versatile, adaptable, and always prepared to take on a variety of tasks as directed by senior officers.

Key Responsibilities:
Deck Operations & Navigation Support:
• Assist in Deck Operations: Support the Master and Chief Officer in all aspects of deck operations, including mooring, anchoring, and securing the vessel in various conditions. Perform lookout duties during passages and ensure proper communication with the bridge team.
• Anchor Handling & Mooring: Assist in all anchor handling and mooring procedures, ensuring safe and efficient operations. Help manage the vessel’s position while anchoring or docking, following the directives of the Captain and / or Chief Officer.
• Bridge & Navigation Support: As assigned, support the bridge team with navigational duties, ensuring safe passage, assisting with lookout duties, and maintaining awareness of weather conditions, obstacles, and other vessels. Assist in monitoring vessel position during anchor watch.
Maintenance of Exterior Spaces:
• Deck Maintenance: Responsible for keeping the outer decks and all exterior spaces clean, organized, and in a seamanlike manner. This includes sweeping, washing, polishing, and ensuring all deck equipment (ropes, fenders, winches, etc.) is in good working order and properly stowed.
• Outside Cleaning: Regularly clean the vessel’s exterior surfaces, including decks, deck furniture, railings, and windows. Ensure the exterior of the yacht reflects high standards of cleanliness.
Engine Room Monitoring & Maintenance Support:
• Engine Room Watch: During anchor watch, monitor the vital functions of the engine room, ensuring the safe operation of machinery, fuel systems, and other critical equipment. Report any issues or concerns to the Chief Officer or Engineer.
• General Maintenance: Assist the Chief Officer with maintenance tasks as needed, ensuring that all equipment and systems onboard are functioning optimally. Perform routine checks on deck equipment, machinery, and the vessel’s exterior.
• Preventative Maintenance: Participate in planned maintenance schedules for the vessel, including inspections, cleaning, and small repairs of both mechanical and exterior systems.
Zodiac Operations & Tender Support:
• Assist with Zodiac Duties: Support all Zodiac operations, including launching, retrieving, and driving the tender as needed. Ensure the safe and proper handling of the Zodiacs for guest excursions, scientific operations, or supply transfers.
• Tender Handling & Safety: Operate Zodiacs and tenders in a safe and professional manner, ensuring all guests and crew members are properly briefed on safety procedures before excursions.
Galley & Housekeeping Support:
• Galley Assistance: Responsible for dishwashing after all meals and assisting maintaining cleanliness in the galley. Ensure that all kitchen equipment, utensils, and surfaces are kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
• Garbage management: Take responsibility for all aspects of waste management according to the vessel’s Garbage Management Plan, as per direction of Chief Officer and Chef.
• Housekeeping Duties: Take responsibility for housekeeping and cleaning tasks throughout the crew areas. This includes tidying up communal spaces, crew areas, and other assigned areas, ensuring that the yacht remains in an organized state throughout the voyage.
• Meal Organization: Help organize meals, snacks, and drinks in coordination with the Head of Service and Chef, assisting with preparations and ensuring that provisions are readily available.
Safety & Emergency Preparedness:
• Emergency Duties: In case of emergency, follow the duties assigned in the muster list, including participation in fire, abandon ship, or medical drills. Be prepared to assist in the safe evacuation of guests and crew and in any other emergency response tasks as required.
• Safety Equipment Checks: Assist with the maintenance and readiness of safety equipment, including life-rafts, life jackets, and emergency supplies, ensuring all items are in good condition and easily accessible.
Standard Work Hours:
• Work Schedule: The standard workday for the Deckhand is 10 hours, with the understanding that flexibility may be required depending on operational needs, weather conditions, and guest schedules. Overtime may occur during busy periods, including emergency situations or special expeditions.

Skills & Qualifications:
• Previous Experience: Previous experience in a similar deckhand or maritime role, preferably in a yacht or expedition setting. Experience in cold-weather or Arctic environments is a plus.
• Basic Nautical Knowledge: Familiarity with deck operations, anchoring, mooring, navigation, and the handling of tender vessels such as Zodiacs.
• Physical Stamina: Must be physically fit and able to perform manual tasks, including lifting, cleaning, and maintaining the vessel in harsh weather conditions. Ability to work at height and in confined spaces is required.
• Team Player: Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with the crew, including the Master, Chief Officer, Chef, and other personnel.
• Flexibility & Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing conditions, take on a variety of roles as needed, and work efficiently in challenging Arctic environments. Must be willing to assist in all areas of the yacht’s operations, from deck to galley to engine room, as needed.
• Safety & Emergency Awareness: Understanding of safety protocols and the ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations. Knowledge of basic first aid and maritime safety procedures is preferred.

Work Environment: The Deckhand will be working onboard an Arctic expedition yacht, operating in remote and often extreme weather conditions. This role demands physical stamina, adaptability, and a high level of professionalism, with responsibilities ranging from manual labor on deck to supporting operational duties in the galley and engine room. The position requires flexibility and teamwork, as the Deckhand will be expected to step into a variety of roles depending on the needs of the vessel and the expedition.

The position is rotational.

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