Adventure Sitka delivers adventure tours, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences in the spectacular coastal environment surrounding Sitka, Alaska. We’re proud of the quality of our excursions — and equally proud of the team that makes them possible.

For many of our crew, Adventure Sitka is an opportunity to experience Alaska for the first time, build guiding and hospitality skills, and grow within a professional adventure-tour environment. Set against some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, we offer more than just a spectacular workplace — we offer a safe, supportive, and collaborative culture that consistently attracts returning employees season after season.

Come join what we’re building together here in Sitka.

Job Overview

Do you want to help create one-of-a-kind excursions while operating a passenger vessel in Sitka Sound’s dramatic coastal waters? Adventure Sitka is seeking a licensed captain who enjoys working as part of a collaborative tour team to deliver exceptional wildlife and cultural experiences. Our captains play a key role in guiding guests safely through Southeast Alaska’s marine environment while working alongside naturalists and hosts to create memorable, high-quality adventures — with the vessel journey serving as one important part of a larger guest experience.

This role thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment where captains, naturalists, and support staff work closely together throughout the day. Our captains enjoy engaging with guests, sharing wildlife sightings, and supporting narration alongside naturalists.  We’re looking for captains who enjoy being both professional mariners and active contributors to a guest-focused adventure team.  

About the Operation

You’ll operate a modern 44’ (18 GRT) ACI aluminum catamaran (2024 build), powered by four Yamaha 300 HP outboards, with an enclosed wheelhouse, interior seating, and exterior observation decks on both levels.  

The vessel rotates between three guided tours operating in Sitka Sound:

• Fortress of the Bear and Silver Bay Homestead Cruise
• Wildlife Cruise and Homestead Discovery
• Sitka’s Coastal Wildlife Cruise

Including Silver Bay, a dramatic glacial fjord and home to our Homestead tour venue. (Images & tour descriptions at: www.adventuresitka.com)

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Safely execute voyages per tour descriptions and company policy
• Lead marine operations in support of the overall tour experience
• Partner with deckhands and hosts to safely welcome and orient guests
• Maintain logs and ship/company documents as directed
• Plan and conduct safety drills and meetings in accordance with USCG regulations and company policy
• Collaborate with tour staff and leadership (Port Captain, Ops Manager) to:
  • Contribute to a consistent, team-driven guest experience
  • Monitor tour quality
  • Track inventory
• Supervise execution of routine fueling, cleaning/sanitation, and restocking. Assist with routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, minor repairs, etc.
• Communicate mechanical/electrical issues to Port Captain and assist with repairs as needed

Required Credentials & Physical Requirements

• USCG Master’s License — 25 GRT minimum (Inland or higher)
• FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit
• Experience operating vessels in Southeast Alaska and/or marine tourism passenger vessels required
• Able to lift/move up to 50 lbs
• Must pass USCG pre-employment & random drug testing

Preferred Skills & Qualities 

• Able to speak clearly over PA; public speaking and narration experience is a plus 
• Comfort with positive engagement with guests and team members is essential
• Team-oriented with a positive, professional attitude
• Ability to lead a small vessel team and maintain strong crew morale
• Interest in wildlife, geology, history, fishing industry, and regional natural history is a plus
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with outboard engines/electrical systems preferred
• Able to work varied shifts, weekends, and holidays
• Professional, reliable, punctual, and courteous

Compensation & Season

• Pay: DOE
• Season: Mid-April through October (full-time seasonal)
• Benefits: Limited benefits including relocation reimbursement
• Completion Bonus: End-of-season bonus for contracts completed in good standing
• Preference given to candidates available through the full season without interruption

About Sitka: Located on Baranof Island and surrounded by Tongass National Forest, Sitka offers world-class hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and access to Southeast Alaska’s waterways. When you’re not on the water, you’ll have access to a friendly coastal community with rich culture, history, and incredible outdoor recreation right out your backdoor.