EXPEDITION - Lead Kayak Guide

About the job

WHO WE ARE

Viking has grown to be The World’s Leading River Cruise Line, with double-digit growth in recent years. With the launch of its ocean fleet in 2015, the company has also become the leader in small ship ocean cruising. With operational headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, Viking provides destination-focused itineraries designed for experienced travelers who have an interest in geography, culture and history. Each journey includes a shore excursion in every port, and an exclusive Viking Culture Curriculum program that provides deep immersion in the destination through performances of music and art, cooking demonstrations, informative port talks and carefully selected guest lecturers.

Viking currently operates a fleet of more than 80 vessels, state-of-the-art ships that have received numerous accolades since their launch from industry experts and travelers alike. Viking was voted the #1 River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in their 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards, and for the third year in a row, has been named the #1 Ocean Cruise Line* by Travel + Leisure readers in the World’s Best Awards 2018.

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Viking Expedition is a new leg of Viking Cruises to deliver expedition cruises in destinations previously not operated by Viking Cruises. Viking Expeditions is offering it’s guests the very exciting opportunity to kayak in some of the most remote and exciting regions of the world. The Hobie pedal kayaks, provide our guests a stable and easy platform to better explore.

The Lead Kayak Guide will be the head of the on board Kayak Program, ensuring it’s safety, delivery of the program and maintenance of the fleet of kayaks, leading another two Kayak Guides.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

Professional Skills

Strong leader, team player and an inspiration to others

Ability to structure complex tasks

Fantastic communication skills

Knowledgeable about expedition operations

Works well under pressure

Smart, presentable, friendly and excellent people skills

Good computer & Microsoft Office experience (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc)

English speaking and writing to a high standard

General Duties

Present to guests the Kayak Program, safety considerations, logistics and destination specific aspects, amongst any other topics relevant to the Kayak Program

Ensure the maintenance of the kayak fleet and equipment is performed to the highest standards and logged accordingly

Responsible for the daily logistics of the Kayaking Program, liaising with the Assistant Expedition Leader

Provide guidance and training to the team

Lead walks, hikes or drive zodiacs as per instructed by the Assistant Expedition Leader

Socialize and be visible in guest areas as often as possible

When assigned, write a short blurb reflecting the day’s experiences

Assist with embarkation and disembarkation duties as necessary

Assist in any other general duties assigned by the Expedition Admin Team

Mindset and Values

Communication & Coordination

Role Model

• Be a role model to others and lead by example
• Work with the Expedition Admin Team providing training and mentorship to all staff
• Ensure a positive working environment

Your profile

Previous experience in similar roles in the Expedition Cruise Industry operating in Antarctica, the Arctic or the North American Great Lakes areas.

Good administration & organization

Proactive problem solving

Teamwork and good communication

Well organized, efficient and positive

Understand guest needs

Time management

Reliable and pressure resistant

Proactive in upholding Viking standards of excellence

Enthusiastic team member

Marine Radio Operator’s license or equivalent

Small boat license, RYA powerboat level 2 or equivalent/higher

Guidelines and Regulations

Ensure appropriate appearance and clothing according to the updated Grooming Standards.

For work in Polar Regions: have passed the appropriate and most recent field staff online assessment of IAATO/AECO.

The company reserves the right to change/extend this job description if necessary, at any point of time during her/his employment.