Tall ship crew for summer sailing

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey. R. Tucker Thompson Sail Training Trust – Opua, North Island Ready to spend your summer sailing Northland’s own tall ship? The R. Tucker Thompson Sail Training Trust is looking for Deckhands to join our crew for the 2026/27 summer season, working aboard our gaff-rigged topsail schooner on Day Sails, Sundowner cruises and other tourism sailings in the Bay of Islands. We are looking for people who are practical, great with people, confident on the water and keen to learn. You don’t need to be an experienced tall ship sailor – we can teach you the ropes. The purpose of this role is to crew the tall ship R. Tucker Thompson during our summer tourism season and, as required, on private and school charters, and other sailings. Along with the ability to perform deckhand duties, you will act as an ambassador for the ship and the Trust, providing outstanding hospitality and helping our guests to engage with the ship, the Bay of Islands and our kaupapa – Learning for Life Through the Sea. You will work closely with the crew and assist the Master in the safe sailing and operation of the ship. The role is multifaceted, involving tall ship sailing, hospitality, customer service and practical shipboard work. The role is physical and all-weather and requires you to be constantly alert to the safety of the ship, her passengers, crew and yourself. You are expected to contribute actively to a strong culture of safety, follow established procedures and identify and report hazards, concerns or maintenance requirements. Key responsibilities Maintain a culture of safety for yourself, other crew and passengers, following the Master's instructions and established shipboard procedures Take pride in the appearance of the ship above and below decks Ensure cleanliness and hygiene standards are maintained throughout, particularly in the galley and heads Report issues, hazards and maintenance requirements to the Master Complete allocated crew tasks Assist with repairs and maintenance when required, within your skills and experience Perform deckhand duties involved in sailing a tall ship during Day Sails, Sundowner cruises, charters and other summer sailings in the Bay of Islands Welcome and engage with passengers, providing friendly, professional and attentive hospitality throughout their time aboard Encourage and support passengers who wish to participate in sailing the ship Prepare and serve food and refreshments (morning tea and lunch) About you Ability to perform deckhand duties Willingness to learn, develop skills and continue to progress Ability to work cooperatively as part of a close-knit crew Ability to engage confidently with passengers and help create a memorable visitor experience Ability to carry out sailing, safety and hospitality responsibilities to a high standard Competence in performing crew duties in sailing and caring for the ship and performing your role in emergency procedures #J-18808-Ljbffr