Gloucester Adventure, Inc., stewards of the historic Schooner Adventure, seeks a qualified Relief Captain to support sailing operations during the 2026 season. The Relief Captain will serve as part of the National Historic Landmark vessel’s command team and will assume command of the schooner during scheduled sailing programs, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and vessel operations. This seasonal position supports Adventure’s public sailing programs and educational mission for select dates July-September 2026.

Adventure 2026 Summer Sailing Program

Adventure sails from June through September each year, offering a combination of public, educational, and community charters. This summer, we continue our commitment to accessibility by providing free sails to local residents from marginalized and underserved communities, reflecting our belief that Adventure belongs to all of Gloucester and Cape Ann.

Adventure’s schedule is dynamic and frequently evolving. In 2026, Adventure’s deck will be open for tours four days a week, with sailing up to five days per week. Most sails are 2.5 hours, with the option of two sails per day, and occasional longer transits and four-hour sails. Early in the season, frequent full-time and volunteer crew training sessions will be offered to support safe and engaging sailing experiences.

Special 2026 Voyages:

Sail Boston: Adventure will take part in Sail Boston® 2026, a world‑class maritime celebration in Boston Harbor from July 11–16, 2026. This event offers crews, cadets, and visitors an unforgettable experience with historic tall ships, spectacular parades of sail, and engaging educational and cultural activities as part of Boston’s official Sail250® festivities.

Adventure remains committed to education, community engagement, and hands-on maritime heritage experiences, offering something for all ages—from casual day sails to extended voyages.

Key Responsibilities:

Serve as Captain of Schooner Adventure during assigned sail dates.

Safely operate a U.S. Coast Guard–inspected passenger vessel in accordance with all applicable maritime regulations.

Oversee the safety and coordination of crew and passengers during public sails and special programs.

Ensure adherence to all established vessel policies, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

Supervise crew in vessel operations including sail handling, docking, and passenger management.

Support routine vessel care and operational readiness.

Maintain professional conduct as a representative of Gloucester Adventure, Inc. and the Schooner Adventure program.

USCG 200 ton Near Coastal Aux Sail or greater.

Demonstrated sailing experience on traditional vessels or schooners.

Strong leadership and crew management skills.

Familiarity with maritime safety practices and emergency procedures.

Ability to work collaboratively with crew and engage positively with passengers.

Compliance Requirements:

Because Schooner Adventure is a U.S. Coast Guard–inspected passenger vessel, the Relief Captain must:

Comply with all U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

Follow all Gloucester Adventure, Inc. policies regarding safety, conduct, and drug and alcohol use.

Participate in pre-employment drug testing and may be subject to random, post-incident, or probable-cause testing in accordance with Coast Guard requirements.

Failure to comply with regulatory or organizational policies may result in dismissal.

Daily Rate: $300 per day (excluding lay days)

Travel reimbursement may be available with prior approval from the Executive Director.

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