?? Dana Point, CA | ?? Marine Tourism | ?? 5-Star Ecotourism Operator
Are you a USCG-licensed boat captain with a sailing endorsement? Do you love the ocean, marine life, and providing unforgettable experiences to guests? Join the award-winning team at Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari in Dana Point, the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®.
About the Role
We're hiring a professional, safety-conscious, and personable boat captain to operate sailing catamarans and power vessels for daily wildlife tours and private charters. You'll lead guests on trips to view dolphins, whales, and other marine life while ensuring top-tier customer service and safety.
Key Requirements
- Active USCG Master's License (50 or 100 Ton) with Sailing Endorsement – Required
- (Applications without a sailing endorsement cannot be considered.)
- Must be age 21 or older (due to alcohol service on some trips)
- Must pass pre-employment and random drug screenings
- Some mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform basic vessel maintenance
- Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays
- Strong passion for marine life, eco-tourism, and hospitality
What You’ll Do
- Operate and safely navigate sailing and motorized vessels
- Lead dolphin and whale watching safaris and occasionally other special cruises (no fishing)
- Locate, identify, and report marine mammal and other marine life sightings
- Supervise crew and assist with daily operations, such as monitoring the safe boarding and disembarking of passengers
- Conduct safety briefings and maintain USCG compliance
- Read gauges to verify sufficient levels of hydraulic fluid, air pressure, and oxygen
- Purchase supplies and equipment
- Oversee vessel maintenance, fueling, and inspections
- Maintain onboard equipment, including engines, winches, navigational systems, fire extinguishers, cameras, electronic systems, life preservers, and other essential components.
What We Offer
- Hourly pay: $27–$29/hour + average $2–$5/hour in tips
- 401K with employer matching
- Healthcare stipend for 30+ hour/week employees
- Paid vacation after 12 months
- Stunning workplace on the Pacific Ocean with daily dolphin and whale sightings
- A daily triple fudge brownie – seriously
About Us
Captain Dave’s is an award-winning, 5-star rated company on TripAdvisor and Yelp, offering unforgettable marine experiences for 30 years. We’re committed to ocean conservation and providing guests with educational, exciting, and ethical encounters with marine life.
Ready to Set Sail?
If you meet the qualifications and want to be part of a passionate, professional, and fun team, we’d love to hear from you.
?? Apply today and help us share the ocean’s magic with the world. Send your resume to captaindave@dolphinsafari.com (Please do not call our main office phone number.)
Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
