JOIN OUR CREW

FIRST MATE / EXPEDITION CREW

Season: Late March – End of September
Location: Iceland & Greenland
Vessel: Aurora – 60 ft Sailing Yacht

WORK WITH VHF EXPEDITIONS

VHF Expeditions is looking for an experienced, independent and adventurous First Mate / Expedition Crew Member to join our small team aboard Aurora, our 60-foot expedition sailing yacht.

We operate sailing, skiing and hiking expeditions in some of the most remote regions of Iceland and Greenland.

The position requires a versatile individual who is equally comfortable handling a 60-foot sailing yacht, skiing challenging mountain terrain, preparing good meals and taking responsibility independently.

Life aboard Aurora requires practical skills, flexibility, sound judgement and a genuine passion for sailing and the outdoors.

A positive attitude, good humour and the ability to work closely with others are essential.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

MARITIME

  • Valid STCW certificate for vessels under 24 metres, recognised by the Icelandic Maritime Administration (Samgöngustofa), qualifying the holder to serve as First Mate (YS) aboard Aurora.

  • Proven experience sailing and handling yachts of approximately 60 feet.

  • Confident in manoeuvring, anchoring, navigation and general seamanship.

  • Strong understanding of maritime safety procedures.

  • Ability to take responsibility and operate independently aboard.

SKIING & MOUNTAIN SKILLS

  • Strong, confident skier with extensive off-piste and ski-touring experience.

  • Excellent skiing ability in steep, challenging and variable snow conditions.

  • Experience in ski touring, uphill travel, route selection and mountain navigation.

  • Solid knowledge of avalanche awareness, risk assessment and mountain safety.

  • Ability to navigate independently and make sound decisions in remote mountain environments.

  • Competence in leading or assisting guests during ski-touring and hiking expeditions.

  • Good physical fitness and endurance for demanding days in the mountains.

LANGUAGES

Ability to communicate in:

  • Icelandic

  • English

  • French

COOKING & HOSPITALITY

  • Good cooking skills and the ability to prepare meals independently for guests and crew.

  • Comfortable working in a small yacht galley.

  • Friendly and welcoming approach to guests.

  • Willingness to participate in all aspects of daily life aboard.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

  • Independent, responsible and reliable.

  • Practical, resourceful and adaptable.

  • Proactive and capable of solving problems independently.

  • Friendly, easygoing and sociable.

  • Strong team player.

  • Positive attitude and a good sense of humour.

  • Comfortable living and working in a small crew for extended periods.

There is no room for big egos aboard a small boat.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assisting the skipper with sailing, navigation and vessel operations.

  • Handling deck operations, anchoring and manoeuvring.

  • Maintaining maritime safety standards.

  • Assisting with expedition planning and logistics.

  • Leading or assisting guests during skiing and hiking activities, within the scope of relevant qualifications.

  • Preparing meals for guests and crew.

  • Participating in maintenance, cleaning and general vessel upkeep.

  • Contributing to a safe, relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere aboard.

Life aboard Aurora is hands-on. Everyone contributes, and no two days are the same.

We value practical experience, independence, common sense and teamwork.

SEASON & AVAILABILITY

Late March – End of September

Full-season availability is required, including extended periods aboard.

Operations are primarily based in Iceland, with expeditions to Greenland during the summer.

APPLICATIONS

Applications must include:

  • Full name and contact information.

  • Nationality and country of residence.

  • CV and relevant professional experience.

  • Valid maritime certificates and STCW qualifications.

  • Details of sailing experience and vessel handling.

  • Skiing, ski-touring and mountain experience.

  • Avalanche safety and mountain guiding qualifications.

  • Language proficiency in Icelandic, English and French.

  • Cooking and hospitality experience.

  • Availability for the expedition season.

  • Professional references.

A valid maritime qualification recognised for service as First Mate (YS), strong skiing ability and extensive mountain experience are mandatory.

APPLY NOW

Submit your application and supporting documents through the VHF Expeditions website.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

VHF EXPEDITIONS
Small crew. Big adventures.