Salén Ship Management (SSM) is seeking an exceptional Captain to join our team and take command of one of our two classic, small expedition cruise ships. Built in Italy in the early 1990s and continuously refurbished, our vessels carry around 100 guests around the globe. We operate worldwide, from the South Pacific to Japan, the Indian Ocean, Africa, Europe, South and Central America, the Arctic, and Antarctica with some 70 strong crew onboard.
This is a unique opportunity for a captain who thrives in a hands-on, people-focused environment and wants to grow with us for the long term.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
We are searching for a captain who brings professionalism, leadership, and genuine passion for small-ship expedition cruising.
• Prior experience with expedition cruising and/or small ship passenger operations
• Master Mariner (Unlimited) COC with full polar certification and experience operating in Antarctic and Arctic waters
• Valid STCW certificates
• Proven record of effective communication, collaborative leadership, and ability to build trust across all departments
• Strong, practical understanding of the ISM Code, STCW Convention, and MLC, with proven experience applying them onboard.
• A strong commitment to crew development, coaching, and onboard culture
• Solid understanding of the expectations of the British cruise guest: seasoned, well-travelled, and seeking comfort, familiarity, and quality.
• Ability and willingness to take full operational ownership onboard, including close cooperation with the hotel and expedition teams
• Comfortable working with our vintage vessels: sound, well-maintained ships with character, no high-tech newbuilds
What the Role Involves:
The captain leads the entire onboard operation with professionalism, warmth, and clear direction. The role includes maintaining the highest standards of safety and seamanship while ensuring full compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies. It also involves working proactively to preserve the vessel’s condition and equipment through regular inspections and maintenance. We always encourage our captains to actively participate during dry dock- and upgrade projects.
Collaboration is central, and the captain works closely with the expedition leader to deliver memorable guest experiences. Active involvement in hotel operations is expected to ensure consistency and high service quality across the guest-facing areas. A key part of the role is supporting and developing the crew through coaching, clear communication, and teamwork. The captain represents both SSM and Noble Caledonia to guests, crew, and shoreside partners, serving as the vessel’s senior ambassador. Finally, the position contributes to product development and continuous improvement across all aspects of the onboard experience.
Benefits:
• A long-term role in a stable, reputable, and thriving company
• Opportunities to influence the evolution of our onboard product
• A collaborative, personable management culture - no large corporate bureaucracy
• Worldwide itineraries through some of the most beautiful and remote places on earth
• A supportive environment where the right individual can truly make their mark
How to apply for the job:
- Register your profile with OSM Thome Recruitment tool on https://jobs.osmthome.com/jobs.
- Please upload your CV in English and a motivational letter.
- OSM Thome Recruitment will contact you for the next steps of the recruitment process.
About Salen Ship Management:
SSM is a Swedish, family-owned management company within a closely integrated group. Our ships are owned, managed, and chartered within the same structure. Our long-standing charterer, Noble Caledonia, serves mainly the British market but also sub-charters the ships outside the group. We pride ourselves on delivering safe, reliable, high-quality operations while maintaining the warm atmosphere characteristic of small-ship cruising. Our founder and owner are from the Swedish shipping family Salén – hence the name.
For more information, please visit our website: www.salenship.com