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.