Mystic Cruises is a leading expedition ocean cruise line that offers an intimate and eco-friendly way to explore some of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. We provide a five-star service that brings our guests up close and personal with the beauty of nature, from Antarctica to the Arctic region, Northern Europe to the Mediterranean. Our ships are designed to sail into landmark cities and small, exclusive ports that larger vessels cannot reach, providing our guests with unforgettable experiences.

At Mystic Cruises, we are committed to environmental sustainability and have implemented innovative technologies on our ships to minimize our impact on the environment. We also believe in the value of our employees and encourage them to share their thoughts and ideas, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.

If you are passionate about travel, committed to sustainability, and eager to contribute your ideas to a team that values collaboration and innovation, then Mystic Cruises might be the perfect place for you. We are looking for talented individuals who want to be a part of our DNA and help us continue to provide exceptional experiences to our guests. Together Cruising the World! Come join us!

This job opportunity will be performed in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expedition vessels, World Navigator, World Traveller and with Rivage du Monde on World Explorer. 

The Fleet Expedition Manager (FEM) is key in developing, enhancing and overseeing the expedition program fleetwide, including excursions and activities, and pre- and post-cruise guest experiences.

This individual, along with the Director of Hotel Operations, is responsible for the overall Expedition program for all ships.

This person works in close coordination with several internal areas: Hotel Operations, Nautical, Port Operations, Itinerary Planning, and of course the shipboard officers, crew and staff. 

The FEM also works closely with external parties worldwide, such as providers of Expedition-related goods and services, and acts as Mystic Cruises’ and Atlas Ocean Voyages’ representative for government authorities and various organizations important for our operation, such as IAATO and AECO.

General Duties

The Fleet Expedition Manager works to ensure the high level of guest experience and satisfaction that Mystic Cruises, Atlas Ocean Voyages and Rivage du Monde guests require. 

This includes the duties in this job description as a general guide, but also can include any additional duties supporting this goal.

·       Mystic Cruises & Atlas Ocean Voyages representative in IAATO & AECCO

·       Responsible to set up all necessary regulatory procedure/ processes in accordance of the IAATO & AECO guidelines.

·       Company representative of Mystic Cruises and Atas Ocean Voyages Expedition Program at industry and trade events, as well as events and conferences for relevant government and non-governmental organizations

·       Development and management of the Mystic Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages Expedition programs, to create an optimal guest experience. 

·       Plan itineraries that are advantageous to the Expedition experience with the Nautical and Port Operations team.

·       Managing Expedition operations, and evaluating existing operations to discover where we can improve, always within budget

·       In charge of purchasing for expedition-related items and services, including budget planning and expense monitoring. 

·       Expedition-related capital requirements planning for existing operations and new builds.

·       Recruit and hire Expedition staff with the Director of Hotel Operations and the Human Resources department.

·       Management of all Expedition Leaders and Expedition team members both shoreside and shipboard

·       Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures related to the expedition program

·       Hold regular training sessions with the Expedition team members to ensure their knowledge is up to date and they are ready to execute their tasks

·       Work toward meeting or exceeding cruisely and yearly Expedition program revenue targets

       Work with the Mystic and Atlas Marketing teams to create Expedition-related marketing materials

·       Actively participate in the onboard Expedition operation on each relevant vessel fleetwide, to ensure smooth operation and high quality of the expedition program.  This includes interacting with crew/officers and guests, Expedition training, lectures and other programs for guests, etc.

·       Assist with updating the relevant Mystic Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages website content.

·       Attend weekly management meetings, and any other meetings that are relevant to the job

·       Hold regular team meetings

·       Assist with purchase of items to be sold in the onboard Retail Shops – Expedition clothing and other equipment for guests

·       Help develop content for onboard enrichment program presentations, lectures and other activities

·       Actively represent and be the spokesperson for our brands in all related industry events

·       During ship visits, the Fleet Expedition Manager should be sure to:

·       Ensure consistency of content and quality for the Expedition program fleetwide

·       Observe all Expedition team communication with guests to ensure brand and message consistency and correctness

·       Ensure all relevant ship inventories are standardized and correct

·       Oversee procedure for keeping Zodiacs and related equipment in good working condition and are serviced as needed

·       Ensure the onboard libraries are stocked with suitable books and other materials

·       Ensure the onboard Expedition staff have the materials and training they need to excel at their jobs. Provide and/or organize training as needed

Financial Responsibilities

Can break out budget-related items here if we want to highlight. All job descriptions can have this section if desired

Safety Responsibilities

Can break out safety-related items here if we want to highlight. All job descriptions can have this section if desired

Qualifications

·       Minimum 5 years in Expedition operations, including Antarctica and Arctic regions

·       Mastery of safe operations in all types of ice conditions, Zodiac operations and safety, Zodiac captain’s license

·       Strong working knowledge of operating regulations, restrictions and conditions, Including the IAATO treaty, AECO

·       Excellent project management and organization skills, and attention to detail

·       Proficient in MS Office Suite. 

·       Fluent in English, with excellent verbal and written communications skills.

·       Self-motivated; skilled at identifying key tasks prioritizing

Your Profile

• Previous experience in similar role or demonstrated experience in the Expedition Cruise Industry
• Good administration & organization
• Proactive problem solving
• Teamwork and good communication
• Well organized, efficient and positive
• A leader
• Understand guest needs
• Time management
• Reliable and pressure resistant
• Proactive in upholding Atlas Ocean Voyages standards of excellence
• Enthusiastic team member
• Marine Radio Operator’s license or equivalent
• Small boat license
• Leisure Skipping Course D5LA (preferential)
• Wilderness First Responder Certificate or equivalent

Professional Skills

• Strong leader, team player and an inspiration to others
• Ability to structure complex tasks
• Good communicator, knowledgeable about expedition operations
• Works well under pressure
• Smart, presentable, friendly and excellent people skills
• Excellent computer & Microsoft Office experience (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc)
• English speaking and writing to a high standard
• Ensure compliance with company policies and standards.
• Make sure the product delivered lives up to the product AOV promises.
• Ensure compliance with all AECO/ IAATO and local regulations.
• Promote safe working practices and procedures among passengers and guides.
• Overall, control the effective and safe management/delivery of the travel product AOV sells to its passenger

The Fleet Expedition Manager is based in the Porto office, since this person will interact closely with other Port-based departments. 

The FEM position also requires frequent international travel, to visit the ships, attend conferences and other events, evaluate new expedition sites, etc.

Mindset and Values

• Be well groomed and of professional personality and focused on delivering 100% satisfaction
• Adhere to schedules, always setting good standards as a member of the shore side team
• Be willing to travel regularly to various Atlas Ocean Voyages offices and vessel

Communication & Coordination

• Report to Captain and coordinate with Staff Captain, Cruise Director and Hotel Manager as needed

Leadership

• Lead by example
• Work with the Assistant Expedition Leader providing training and mentorship to the Expedition Team
• Ensure a positive working environment

Guidelines and Regulations

• Implement Standard Operating Procedures & STAR Service Standards within the department.
• 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.