Master Boat Captain for Scenic Tours

North Tahoe Cruises is seeking a Seasonal Boat Captain for The Tahoe Gal, an iconic 120-passenger paddlewheel tour boat on Lake Tahoe. This is a seasonal position (approx. May – October 2025) ideal for a skilled, fun-loving captain with a passion for sharing Lake Tahoe’s beauty and history. The Captain will operate daily sightseeing and dinner cruises, ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, and lead the onboard crew in providing an exceptional experience. Priority will be given to candidates who can start by May 2025 to kick off the summer season.

Key Responsibilities

• Safe Vessel Operation: Command and navigate The Tahoe Gal in various lake conditions, always putting passenger and crew safety first. Adhere to all maritime laws, navigational rules, and company safety protocols during every cruise.
• Guest Experience & Narration: Provide friendly customer service and informative narration about Lake Tahoe’s sights, history, and fun facts to enhance the guest experience. Act as an ambassador for Lake Tahoe, ensuring tours are engaging and memorable.
• Crew Leadership: Supervise and coordinate crew members (deckhands, servers, and tour staff) to maintain smooth operations and high-quality service throughout each cruise. Foster teamwork and effectively communicate with crew to execute safe departures, dockings, and onboard events.
• Vessel Maintenance: Oversee the vessel’s cleanliness and basic maintenance. Conduct routine inspections of the boat’s systems and coordinate any required repairs or mechanical support. Keep daily logs of operations and report any incidents or issues as needed (attention to detail is crucial).
• Emergency Preparedness: Ensure all safety equipment is present and functional before departure. Lead safety drills with crew and be prepared to handle unexpected situations or emergencies calmly and effectively .

Qualifications & Licenses

• USCG License: Valid U.S. Coast Guard Master’s Captain’s License (50-ton minimum; 100-ton preferred). This license must be current and suitable for a 120-passenger vessel operating on inland waters.
• Experience: Proven experience as a boat captain (minimum 1 year required) operating passenger vessels or tours. Familiarity with Lake Tahoe or similar waterways is a plus.
• Skills: Strong boat handling, navigation, and engine/mechanical knowledge. Able to perform basic troubleshooting and coordinate maintenance. Excellent communication and customer service skills for narrating tours and leading crew.
• Physical Ability: Physically fit and able to work on your feet for long shifts, including handling lines and assisting with docking. Ability to lift ~50 lbs and work in various weather conditions (sun, wind, occasional rain) on the lake. Must be comfortable at high altitude and on the water for extended periods.
• Other Requirements: Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and at least 18 years old (due to USCG requirements). Driver’s license and reliable transportation to Tahoe City, CA (or ability to relocate to the Lake Tahoe area for the season) required, as the role is on-site. A passion for Lake Tahoe’s environment and history is highly valued.

Schedule & Working Conditions

• Seasonal Commitment: Position runs roughly from May through October 2025 (6-month season) . Applicants should be available for the entire season, including weekends and holidays (peak cruise times).
• Hours: Approximately 25–35 hours per week (Full-time or heavy part-time). Schedule will vary based on the cruise calendar – typically 8-hour shifts covering preparation, the cruise itself, and post-cruise duties. Expect to operate one to two cruises per day, which may include morning brunch cruises, afternoon sightseeing tours, and evening dinner or sunset cruises.
• Work Environment: On the water – you will spend most of your workdays aboard The Tahoe Gal on Lake Tahoe. The role involves outdoor conditions (fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, and occasional inclement weather). Temperatures can vary, so adaptability is important. All operations are based out of Tahoe City, CA; you’ll need to report to the marina for each shift. The captain works closely with a small team each day and interacts directly with passengers, so a positive attitude in a customer-facing environment is essential.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly Pay: $35.00 – $40.00 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Opportunity for gratuities may arise during private charters or special events.
• Health Benefits: Health insurance is available for full-time seasonal employees. Details on coverage and eligibility will be provided during the hiring process.
• Perks: Employee discounts on cruises and company offerings (bring your family on a cruise!)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift

Ability to Commute:

• Tahoe City, CA 96145 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Tahoe City, CA 96145: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35 - $40