Staff Captain

About the Role Staff Captain on our ships, acting as deputy to the Captain and providing responsible leadership in the nautical domain. You lead the Deck, Bridge, Security, Safety and Hospital departments to ensure smooth ship operations, including safety, emergency management, stability, and deck operations, with planning and execution of maintenance. You will also oversee tender operations and Zodiac operations on selected ships, actively promote a professional Bridge Resource Management culture, and coordinate disciplinary discussions with HR onboard. You will ensure compliance with international and national regulations and laws, and serve as a key representative in guest communications. On selected ships (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises): you may take on half-bridge watch (4 hours). What You'll Do

• Stand in for the Captain and lead nautical operations across Deck, Bridge, Security, Safety, and Hospital departments
• Ensure smooth ship operations including safety, emergency response, stability, and deck operations; plan and execute maintenance
• Lead tender operations; on some ships, Zodiac operations
• Actively promote Bridge Resource Management culture and lead disciplinary conversations with HR in collaboration with the HR Manager onboard
• Ensure ship operations comply with international and national regulations and laws
• Communicate with guests as a key representative of the company
• On selected ships, assume half-bridge watch (4 hours) What We're Looking For
• Professional experience as Staff Captain on a cruise ship; expedition ships experience is a plus
• Valid Captain's license (Kapitänspatent) and current STCW certificates
• Strong knowledge of Bridge Resource Management and safe operation of common nautical equipment
• Experience leading Tender Operations; Zodiac Operations experience advantageous for expedition ships
• Excellent knowledge of international maritime regulations, conventions, and environmental standards
• Open, communicative, confident personality with strong service orientation
• High level of initiative, implementation skills, and stress resistance in unexpected situations
• Native German; very good English skills in speaking and writing Nice to Have
• Experience on expedition ships and familiarity with Zodiac operations in expedition contexts Compensation & Benefits
• Direct employment contract with TUI Cruises GmbH including statutory social security in Germany if residing there
• Personal contacts in the TUI Cruises Office for professional and HR matters
• 1:1 bridge rotation on board
• International work environment with diverse, open teams
• Uniform provision with free on-board cleaning
• Opportunity to explore various world routes in your leisure time
• Exclusive crew facilities on board: fitness studio, sun deck, shore excursions, crew bar and exclusive crew events
• Travel to and from the ship organized and paid by the company
• Free single-occupancy cabin with private bath and meals on board
• Guest-centric focus at every step

If you have questions about TUI Cruises or our application process, please review our careers site or contact [email protected]. Applications are accepted online only.