Hire a Captain in 24 Hours

Our comprehensive recruitment service includes an initial consultation to understand your exact requirements, access to our exclusive network of pre-vetted Captain candidates, shortlist delivery within 24-48 hours, interview coordination and logistics support, thorough background checks and reference verification, offer negotiation assistance, and ongoing support through the onboarding period. We operate on a success-fee basis—you only pay when your new Captain starts work. Our replacement guarantee provides additional security, offering a free replacement if the placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period.

We deliver first candidate profiles within 24-48 hours of our initial consultation. The overall timeline from engagement to having your new Captain onboard typically spans 2-4 weeks, though we've completed urgent placements in under 10 days. The timeline depends on several factors: interview availability, reference check complexity, and notice periods for employed candidates. For rotational positions where handover time allows, we can extend the process to ensure optimal candidate selection. We'll provide a realistic timeline during our initial consultation based on your specific needs and market conditions.

Captain qualifications vary by vessel size and operation type. Minimum requirements typically include an appropriate license (RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore for smaller yachts, Master 3000GT or Master Unlimited for larger vessels), valid STCW Basic Safety Training, and an ENG1 medical certificate. Beyond certifications, Captains need proven leadership experience, strong communication skills, and cultural awareness. Additional qualifications like ECDIS, DP (Dynamic Positioning), or specialized area endorsements may be required based on your operation. During our consultation, we'll detail exactly which qualifications your specific position requires and which additional certifications might benefit your operation.

Our replacement guarantee provides peace of mind for this critical hire. If your Captain leaves or is terminated within our guarantee period (typically 90 days), we'll find a replacement at no additional fee. This guarantee covers situations where the placement doesn't work out for any reason—performance issues, cultural misfit, or changed circumstances. The guarantee period begins when the Captain joins the vessel. While our thorough vetting process means replacements are rarely needed (less than 10% of placements), this guarantee demonstrates our confidence and protects your investment.

Our seven-step vetting process is the industry's most comprehensive. We verify every certification directly with issuing authorities and conduct international criminal background checks. Our team performs in-depth reference calls with previous employers and crew members, validating both technical competence and leadership effectiveness. We assess personality fit through psychometric testing and structured interviews. All sea time claims are verified through discharge books and testimonials. We also confirm medical fitness, visa status, and financial responsibility. This rigorous process typically eliminates 70% of initial candidates, ensuring only exceptional Captains reach your shortlist.

Captain compensation varies significantly based on experience level, responsibilities, location, and specific requirements of the role. During our initial consultation, we provide detailed salary benchmarking tailored to your specific situation and market conditions. This ensures your offer is competitive enough to attract quality candidates while remaining aligned with current market rates. We draw on our extensive placement experience to advise on the full compensation package including benefits, accommodation, and other factors that influence candidate decisions.

Yes, we provide comprehensive visa and work permit guidance. Our team understands the complex requirements for various flag states and cruising destinations. During candidate vetting, we verify existing work rights and identify any visa requirements. We can connect you with specialist immigration lawyers for complex cases and guide candidates through application processes. For Schengen area operations, we ensure candidates understand the 90/180 day rules. While we don't directly process visas, our experience helps anticipate and navigate potential immigration challenges, ensuring your chosen Captain can work legally wherever you cruise.

Absolutely. Our global network includes Captains based in all major yachting hubs—Mediterranean ports like Antibes and Palma, Caribbean bases like Fort Lauderdale and Antigua, and emerging destinations like Southeast Asia and the Pacific. We can source candidates already located in your preferred area or identify those willing to relocate. For remote or unusual locations, we leverage our network to find Captains with specific area knowledge. Whether you need someone familiar with Norwegian fjords, experienced in crossing the Northwest Passage, or based permanently in Dubai, we have the connections to deliver appropriate candidates.

Urgent placements are our specialty. We maintain relationships with immediately available Captains—those between positions, on completion leave, or open to immediate opportunities for the right role. Our 24-48 hour candidate delivery commitment applies even to urgent requests. For critical situations (vessel arrest, sudden departure, etc.), we can present phone-screened candidates within hours and coordinate immediate interviews. We've successfully placed Captains within 72 hours of initial contact when circumstances demanded. Our extensive network and streamlined processes enable rapid response without compromising our vetting standards.

Starting your Captain search is simple. Contact us via phone (+33 123 456 789), email (captains@lighthousecareers.com), or through our website contact form. We'll schedule a 15-30 minute consultation at your convenience to discuss your specific needs, timing, and preferences. This consultation is completely confidential and obligation-free. Following our discussion, we'll provide a detailed recruitment proposal outlining our approach and terms. Once you approve, we immediately activate our search network, typically delivering your first candidate profiles within 24-48 hours. No upfront payments are required—you only pay when your new Captain starts work.

Successful Captain placements result from matching technical qualifications with cultural fit and personal compatibility. Beyond certificates and experience, we assess leadership style alignment with your crew culture, lifestyle compatibility with your cruising patterns, and personal motivation alignment with your operational philosophy. Clear communication of expectations, competitive compensation, and defined career development paths contribute to retention. Our post-placement support helps address early integration challenges before they become issues. The Captains we place average 3+ years in position, well above industry standards, because we prioritize these comprehensive matching criteria over quick placements.

Yes, we regularly fill both temporary and rotational Captain positions. For temporary needs—covering leave, delivery trips, or yard periods—we maintain a roster of qualified freelance Captains available at short notice. For permanent rotational positions, we can source matched pairs who work together seamlessly or independent Captains comfortable with structured handovers. We ensure both/all rotation partners share similar management philosophies and operational standards. Our vetting process for rotational positions includes assessing communication skills and handover diligence, critical factors for rotational success. We also help structure rotation schedules that balance operational continuity with sustainable work-life balance.