Job Description

Caledonian Discovery offers cruising holidays with outdoor activities along the Great Glen in the Scottish Highlands, aboard our two converted Dutch barges, Fingal and Ros Crana.

We are looking for a Bosun/Deckhand to join our team for the Summer 2026 season, from early April to late October. The job is full-time and live-aboard during the working weeks.

This is an interesting life with a variety of people of all ages coming on the boats. We look for sociable crew who will enjoy the boat lifestyle, the inspirational surroundings and being part of a fun and enthusiastic team in a unique, wonderful environment. We enjoy a quality of life envied by many who come across us.

The Job

As Bosun, you will be responsible for the maintenance and smooth day-to-day running of the vessel, machinery, and onboard equipment. You will act as the main deckhand, organising deck operations during locking, berthing, and anchoring, and will pilot our 5m powerboat to transfer guests. The role is hands-on, varied, and offers the opportunity to develop practical and marine skills while working in a unique and beautiful environment.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain the vessel, machinery, and onboard equipment to a safe and reliable standard.

Act as the lead deckhand during locking, berthing, and anchoring operations.

Pilot the 5m powerboat to collect and drop off guests as required.

Assist with driving the barge on open water and general deck work.

Carry out routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs onboard.

Support daily operations including shopping, mealtime assistance, and guest interaction.

Work collaboratively with the skipper and crew to deliver a safe, welcoming guest experience.

Participate in training to develop deck, maintenance, and powerboating skills.

The Person

Essential:

Practically minded with strong problem-solving skills. Ability to carry out a wide range of routine maintenance tasks, including basic engine and household maintenance. Good communication skills and a polite, approachable manner with guests. Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable living and working as part of a close-knit, live-aboard team. Willingness to learn new skills and take on varied responsibilities.

Desirable:

Previous boating, mechanical, or engineering experience. RYA Powerboat Level 2 or equivalent qualification.

Additional Information

Training will be provided in all aspects of the role as required. Caledonian Discovery is a recognised RYA training centre, with opportunities to work towards RYA Powerboat Level 2. Crew members may be scheduled to work across either vessel during the season to support operations, training, and holiday cover. Seasonal roles may lead to winter accommodation, part-time maintenance work, or occasional full-time operations opportunities for suitable candidates.

The Season

All of our seasonal crew work on a general rotation of 4 weeks on followed by 2 weeks off or 3 weeks on followed by a week off. The exact rotation may vary and might include additional weeks off or shorter stints on the barge, subject to the requirements of crewing the barges, but each stint of 4 weeks will always be followed by at least 2 weeks off, and each stint of 3 weeks will be followed by at least 1 week off. This allows for plenty of time for the crew to recuperate and hopefully gives enough time for them to follow their other summer-time passions and interests.

During the working weeks aboard the barges, crew are required to live aboard with food and accommodation provided. With no live-in deductions there are no further outgoings necessary except for personal spending.

Working hours while on board are typical for a charter boat. The crew work from 11am on Saturday to about 2pm on Friday. This makes the working weeks quite full-on, but we think that the number of weeks off makes for a good work-life balance.

What you get

- 830 - 865 per work week

- Accommodation and food during working weeks

- Plenty of time off to pursue your summer passions

- Great work-life balance

- A beautiful and unique working environment

- Friends and Family Discount on our holidays

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 7 months

Pay: 830.00-865.00 per week

Benefits:

Discounted or free food
Application question(s):

Do you have any previous experience with boat work or deck work? Are you willing to live aboard the boat during weeks you are scheduled to work (typically 3-4 weeks at a time)?
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 16/01/2026
Expected start date: 29/03/2026