Expedition Leader (M/F) - Seagoing Porto

Expedition Leader (M/F) - Seagoing
Porto
Porto, Porto District, Portugal

Company Description

Mystic Cruises is a leading expedition ocean cruise line that offers an intimate and
- friendly way to explore some of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. We provide a
- star service that brings our guests up close and personal with the beauty of nature, from Antarctica to the Arctic region, Northern Europe to the Mediterranean. Our ships are designed to sail into landmark cities and small, exclusive ports that larger vessels cannot reach, providing our guests with unforgettable experiences.

At Mystic Cruises, we are committed to environmental sustainability and have implemented innovative technologies on our ships to minimize our impact on the environment. We also believe in the value of our employees and encourage them to share their thoughts and ideas, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.

If you are passionate about travel, committed to sustainability, and eager to contribute your ideas to a team that values collaboration and innovation, then Mystic Cruises might be the perfect place for you. We are looking for talented individuals who want to be a part of our DNA and help us continue to provide exceptional experiences to our guests. Together Cruising the World! Come join us!

This job opportunity will be performed in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expedition ship, World Navigator.

Job Description

The Expedition Leader manages all activities during Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expeditions. They oversee the safety of the Atlas Ocean Voyages staff and passengers to ensure a seamless operation for all. The EL will work with the Core Team to provide leadership and guidance during challenging decisions. Working with the Expedition Team, the EL will manage all Zodiac, safety, bear safety, firearm handling and glacier operations to provide a safe experience for passengers during onshore excursions.

The Expedition Leader will work with the Cruise Director to synchronize the onboard and onshore programming. They will communicate any changes to the itinerary made to the Cruise Director to provide necessary information to the passengers and staff. The Expedition Leader works closely with the Captain, bridge staff and Assistant Expedition Leader to determine the best itinerary for the expedition while managing all challenges that may arise. The EL has exemplary leadership, team building, management, and customer service skills. He/she manages program safety policy and procedures, and is well versed on destination topics including, history, culture and natural surroundings. The EL has a solid background in interpretive program development, group outdoor adventure leadership skills, and cooperative management skills. The Expedition Leader communicates all zodiac cruising and onshore excursion information to the passengers in a clear and friendly manner.

General Duties

• Manage a team of expedition guides effectively and professionally, ensuring smooth cooperation with the captain, crew, and hotel department.
• Organize and execute passenger activities safely and effectively.
• Manage programming and scheduling for off vessel excursions, and communicate this to the guests and crew in an easy to understand, timely and well documented manner.
• Ensure all activities follow safety policies put in place by the vessel’s officers and from within Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Standard Operating Procedures.
• In conjunction with the Cruise Director, oversee the execution of the daily program.
• Responsible for the delivery of timely departures/arrivals, safe and informative excursions, professional and educational interpretation in the field, zodiac operation and firearms maintenance.
• Supervise, train, schedule, coach and formally evaluate all expedition staff.
• Manage all administrative tasks assigned to the Expedition department including: maintaining permit requirements, bike, bear, and zodiac safety orientations, completing the expedition daily report.
• Liaise with the ship’s Captain, Safety Officer and Boatswain to safely, effectively and efficiently load and unload passengers into zodiacs.
• Maintain communication with the AOV/MC office and update changes to the schedule and program.
• Work with the Captain and bridge staff to discuss ice movement, tide and other circumstances related to the ship's navigation.
• Compile and send the Post Visit Reports (PVR) and any other operational forms necessary to the relevant entities.
• Ensure all equipment required for the excursions is prepared, loaded/offloaded, properly cleaned and maintained.
• In the Arctic region, ensure that Firearm Maintenance and Safety Protocols are strictly followed to the highest standards.
• Socialize with guests on a regular basis with special care given to dining with different guests.
• Post-visit report to all stakeholders.
• Liaise and cooperate with third parties ashore: local communities, stakeholders, and suppliers.
• Identify and
  - out training needs in the team.
• Safeguard compliance with industry guidelines and regulations.
• Convey insights about destinations, its history, culture, nature and wildlife in a credible but easy and entertaining way.

Qualifications

• At least two seasons of experience as an expedition leader on expedition cruise ships (two seasons in the Arctic and two seasons in Antarctica) or the equivalent of four seasons as an assistant expedition leader and/or guide/lecturer on expedition cruise vessels larger than 150 passengers.
• In-depth knowledge of the area around Svalbard, Greenland, Northwest Passage, Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula.
• University degree in relevant subjects to the Arctic and Antarctica.
• STCW Basic Safety Training Certificate.
• First Aid Certificate (WFR + CPR & AED) Minimum.
• Security Awareness Certificate.
• Marine Medical Certificate.
• Small-Vessel Proficiency Certificate (RYA Powerboat Level 2 or equivalent).
• Possession and Acquisition License (or international equivalent).
• Rifle handling and polar bear protection experience.
• Fluency in the English language.
• Senior Polar Guide certification (PTGA) or equivalent.

Your Profile

• Previous experience in similar role or demonstrated experience in the Expedition Cruise Industry.
• Good administration & organization.
• Proactive problem solving.
• Teamwork and good communication.
• Well organized, efficient and positive.
• A leader.
• Understand guest needs.
• Time management.
• Reliable and pressure resistant.
• Proactive in upholding Atlas Ocean Voyages standards of excellence.
• Enthusiastic team member.
• Marine Radio Operator’s license or equivalent.
• Small boat license.
• Leisure Skipping Course D5LA (preferential).
• Wilderness First Responder Certificate or equivalent.

Professional Skills

• Strong leader, team player and an inspiration to others.
• Ability to structure complex tasks.
• Good communicator, knowledgeable about expedition operations.
• Works well under pressure.
• Smart, presentable, friendly and excellent people skills.
• Excellent computer & Microsoft Office experience (Excel, Word, Power
  Point, etc).
• English speaking and writing to a high standard.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and standards.
• Promote safe working practices and procedures among passengers and guides.
• Overall, control the effective and safe management/delivery of the travel product AOV sells to its passenger.

Additional Information

Mindset and Values

• Be well groomed and of professional personality and focused on delivering 100% satisfaction.
• Adhere to schedules, always setting good standards as a member of the shore side team.
• Be willing to travel regularly to various Atlas Ocean Voyages offices and vessel.

Communication & Coordination

• Report to Captain and coordinate with Staff Captain, Cruise Director and Hotel Manager as needed.

Leadership

• Lead by example.
• Work with the Assistant Expedition Leader providing training and mentorship to the Expedition Team.
• Ensure a positive working environment.

Guidelines and Regulations

• Implement Standard Operating Procedures & STAR Service Standards within the department.
• Ensure appropriate appearance and clothing according to the updated Grooming Standards.
• For work in Polar Regions: have passed the appropriate and most recent field staff online assessment of IAATO/AECO.
• The company reserves the right to change/extend this job description if necessary, at any point of time during her/his employment.