Expedition Guide for Antarctica Season (M/F) - Seagoing

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 World Voyager. 

The Expedition Guide is a team role onboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expedition vessels and a key member in the delivery of Atlas Ocean Voyages Expedition & Enrichement Program.

Expedition Guides are part of a cohesive Expedition team whose goal is to inspire guests and help them understand and have an appreciation for what they are experiencing during their cruise. Guides are supervised by the Expedition Leader. Their primary responsibilities include guiding and interpretation as well as onboard presentations and narration. They interpret topics ranging from geology, geography, glaciology, marine biology, natural history and cultural history, geopolitics, current issues in local destinations, and local flora and fauna. Expedition Guides lead groups of guests on hikes ranging from shore walks to route finding, bushwhacking, and more technical hiking, as well as camping trips on a daily basis.

Expedition Guides take ownership of delivering an unforgettable vacation experience to guests through sharing their passion and knowledge, guiding excursions, and exemplary customer service, with an emphasis on safety. The Expedition Guide will be part of a world class team of exeptional expedition staff members.

·       Lead walks, hikes or drive zodiacs in remote polar wilderness settings with few or no defined trails, utilizing safety standards and route finding skills as per instructed by the Assistant Expedition Leader

·       Work within a cohesive and cooperative team led by the Expedition Leader, with heavy emphasis on communication and teamwork

·       Confidently and competently lead groups of up to 20 guests in the field and on the water, and create an enjoyable experience for guests even when an excursion does not go as planned. Heavy emphasis on customer service, dynamic thinking and safety

·       Provide in the field, hands-on interpretation, and thematic, formal onboard presentations that are integrated into a week-long interpretive program, and wildlife narration utilizing interactive tools such as maps, charts, guidebooks, power point, microscopes and spotting scopes to involve the guests and enhance the guest experience

·       Cultivate the guest experience by focusing on the observation of the surrounding geology, flora and fauna by encouraging passengers to spend as much time on deck exploring and experiencing the natural surroundings that may go unnoticed

·       Develop and deliver educational presentations covering environmental science, history, or other relevant topics to the itinerary as assigned by the EL

·       Socialize and be visible in guest areas as often as possible

·       When assigned, write a short blurb reflecting the day’s experiences for marketing or other purposes

·       Assist with embarkation and disembarkation duties as necessary

·       Maintain the cleanliness, order and function of all Expedition tools, including kayaks, paddleboards, camping equipment, electronics and guest’s gear like rubber boots

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

·       Be a role model by leading by example as well as maintain a professional demeanor and appearance amongst crew and guests at all times, while living in a close community setting

·       Previous experience in similar role or demonstrated experience in the Expedition Cruise Industry or relevant experience lecturing

·       Demonstrable written and verbal communications including interpretive materials and presentations development

·       Minimum education of a Bachelor of Science in natural and/or cultural history, or other relevant field of study, or equivalent experience

·       Exceptional and demonstrable customer service and problem solving skills

·       Good administration & organization

·       Proactive problem solving

·       A strong preference for working in a team setting with good communication

·       Well organized, efficient and positive

·       Understand guest needs

·       Time management

·       Reliable

·       Proactive in upholding Atlas Ocean Voyages’ standards of excellence

·       Marine Radio Operator’s license or equivalent

·       Small boat license (RYA Powerboat level 2 or equivalent) – advantage

·       First Aid/CPR and Wilderness First Responder Certified

·       Polar Guide certification (PTGA)

Guidelines and Regulations

·       Implement Standard Operating Procedures & 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. 

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

·       Well organized, efficient and positive

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

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