Our private cruises are all about personal attention, comfort and creating memorable moments. From relaxed sightseeing cruises with families and friends to celebrations, business outings and private dinners, every trip is different. As the captain, you are at the heart of that experience.

You will be responsible for safely navigating one of our boats through Amsterdam while making sure our guests feel welcome and well looked after from the moment they step aboard until they leave.

The Role

As a captain at Private Boat Tours, you combine professional boating skills with genuine hospitality. Safety always comes first, but being a great captain with us means more than simply steering the boat. You understand that guests have booked a private experience and expect a high level of service.

Depending on the cruise, you may work together with a host or take an active role in welcoming and assisting guests yourself.

Your responsibilities include:

• Safely navigating our boats through the canals and waterways of Amsterdam;

• Creating a comfortable, relaxed and professional atmosphere on board;

• Welcoming guests and assisting them when boarding and leaving the boat;

• Taking responsibility for passengers, the vessel and general safety during each cruise;

• Working together with hosts and other team members to provide excellent service;

• Checking the condition of the boat before and after your shift;

• Picking up catering orders when required and serving drinks when no host is on board;

• Sharing interesting stories and insights about Amsterdam;

• Serving as well as introducing the food and wines served during the cruise;

• Helping prepare, tidy and reset the boat between bookings;

• Responding professionally to changing circumstances on the water;

• Representing Private Boat Tours in a friendly and professional manner.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for captains who are confident on the water and comfortable working directly with guests.

You:

• Hold a valid Groot Vaarbewijs (GVB);

• Hold a valid marifooncertificaat (VHF radio certificate);

• Have at least 4 years of practical experience navigating the Amsterdam canals;

• Understand local waterways, bridges, traffic situations and boating conditions;

• Speak fluently Dutch and can communicate confidently in English;

• Have a friendly, presentable and guest-focused attitude;

• Stay calm and responsible in busy or unexpected situations;

• Enjoy working independently while also being part of a team;

• Are flexible regarding working days and hours;

• Are available for at least one weekend day per week.

Experience with private, luxury or hospitality-focused cruises is a pré.

Working Hours

Location: Amsterdam
Schedule: Monday to Sunday
Hours: Flexible shifts between approximately 09:00 and 00:00
Weekend availability: Minimum one weekend day per week
Start: Spring/Summer season / by agreement

Because we operate private cruises, working hours can vary depending on reservations and events.

What You Can Expect From Us

At Private Boat Tours, no two working days are exactly the same. Instead of spending your day behind a desk, Amsterdam's canals become your workplace.

We offer:

• Competitive compensation;

• Flexible scheduling;

• Opportunities to earn tips;

• A varied job with different guests, cruises and occasions;

• A friendly and professional working environment;

• Plenty of independence and responsibility;

• The opportunity to work outdoors in the heart of Amsterdam;

• A role within a company focused on high-quality private boating experiences.

Private Cruises, Personal Service

Our guests choose a private boat because they are looking for something more personal than a standard canal cruise.

They may be visiting Amsterdam for the first time, celebrating a birthday or anniversary, organizing a company event, enjoying drinks with friends or simply looking for a special afternoon on the canals.

Whatever the occasion, our goal is the same: a safe, comfortable and memorable experience from beginning to end.

As our captain, you play an essential part in making that happen.

Interested?

Do you have the required sailing qualifications, experience on Amsterdam's waterways and a passion for hospitality? Then we would be happy to hear from you.

Apply to become a Captain at Private Boat Tours and make Amsterdam's canals your workplace.