Port Captain (Landing Craft)

Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Port Captain to oversee the safe, compliant and efficient marine operations of a fleet of 4 landing craft. The successful candidate will provide shore-based operational support to vessel Masters and deck officers, ensure the fleet remains inspection-ready and maintain compliance with flag, class, port-state and customer requirements. This is a hands-on position involving regular vessel visits, incident investigations, crew development and frequent regional travel. Key Responsibilities Oversee the safe and efficient marine operations of 4 landing craft.

Provide operational guidance and support to Masters, Chief Officers and shipboard teams.

Ensure vessels comply with flag-state, port-state, class, IMO, ISM and ISPS requirements.

Coordinate vessel inspections, audits, surveys and the closure of any findings.

Conduct regular vessel visits, including port and sailing inspections.

Lead onboard safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture across the fleet.

Investigate incidents, near misses and non-conformities, including root-cause analysis and corrective actions.

Monitor vessel readiness, navigation practices, cargo operations and marine equipment.

Support the development of operating procedures for landing-craft operations, including beaching, ramp operations, cargo securing and heavy-equipment movements.

Assess the operational implications of converting or transitioning former naval craft for commercial use.

Monitor voyage performance, fuel consumption and operational efficiency.

Coordinate with terminals, ports, agents, customers, classification societies and regulatory authorities.

Support emergency-response activities and provide marine expertise during vessel incidents.

Evaluate and mentor Masters and Chief Officers and support recruitment, promotion and competency assessments.

Deliver training and familiarisation on operational procedures, safety systems and company requirements.

Provide management with timely updates on vessel performance, operational risks and regulatory matters.

Travel regularly to attend vessels and support regional operations.

Requirements Degree or diploma in Nautical Studies, Maritime Transportation or a related discipline.

Master Mariner Certificate of Competency or an equivalent internationally recognised STCW qualification.

At least 8 years of maritime experience, including seagoing service as a senior deck officer.

Previous experience as a Port Captain, Marine Superintendent or Marine Operations Manager.

Experience with landing craft, naval vessels, RoRo vessels, heavy-lift operations, offshore vessels or similar vessel types would be highly advantageous.

Good understanding of ramp operations, cargo securing, stability and the carriage of vehicles or heavy equipment.

Strong knowledge of flag, class, port-state, ISM, ISPS and applicable IMO requirements.

Experience conducting marine incidents investigations and root-cause analysis.

Demonstrated ability to coach and develop Masters and senior deck officers.

Strong communication, leadership and stakeholder-management skills.

Willing and able to travel frequently and attend vessels outside normal working hours when required.