World Cruising Opportunity - Captain & Chef Couples Only

CATALYST, a 2025 Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 sailing catamaran, is seeking an experienced Captain/Chef couple for a long-term, multi-year world cruising and circumnavigation program.

CATALYST is owned by an American couple in their 50s who live aboard most of the year and regularly host family and friends. She is also offered for limited charter, approximately 4–8 weeks per year, when the owner is not onboard.

The owner actively participates onboard during crossings and passages, with additional crew brought on when necessary. The program focuses on offshore passagemaking, remote cruising, diving, kiting, foiling, spearfishing and other watersports. Crew who enjoy these activities are preferred.

CATALYST is extensively equipped for remote cruising and onboard autonomy, including Starlink, a large lithium battery bank, high-output alternators, extensive solar, multiple refrigeration/freezer systems and numerous additional upgrades.

Applicants must be experienced and comfortable operating and maintaining a 59' modern luxury sailing catamaran in remote cruising areas while maintaining high operational, maintenance and guest-service standards.

The owners are personable and reasonable, and place a high value on crew happiness, longevity and a sustainable work-life balance. This is nevertheless a very busy, hands-on position requiring a strong work ethic, professionalism, flexibility, organization and attention to detail.

Crew must be able to work independently while also being comfortable living and working collaboratively with the owner. High-end charter experience is also important.

Given the demanding nature of the program, the position will likely be rotational, with reasonable work periods.

Crew accommodations consist of a private shared cabin with queen berth and ensuite bath. Couples must have been together at least one year.

Planned cruising areas for the next year include the Grenadines, ABCs, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Galápagos and French Polynesia. Longer term, the itinerary includes New Zealand, Southeast Asia and eventually the Med.

Captain Qualifications
Native English speakers preferred; others must have excellent English skills
Yachtmaster Offshore or equivalent advanced license
Extensive offshore experience, including at least one ocean crossing as captain
Prior catamaran and charter experience
Strong engineering, mechanical, troubleshooting and maintenance skills
Non-smoker; moderate alcohol use only
Professional references required
Current STCW and ENG1 before start

Captain Responsibilities
Collaborate with the owner on itinerary, route planning and operational logistics
Safe operation, navigation, docking, anchoring and tender operations
Maintenance and troubleshooting of vessel systems, including engines, generators, watermakers, plumbing, and electrical
Customs and immigration coordination
Provisioning logistics
Guest and charter preparation
Supporting owner and guest activities and watersports

Chef / Stewardess Qualifications
Prior yacht chef and/or charter experience
Culinary training and/or strong practical cooking ability
Organized, capable and self-motivated
Fluent English
Non-smoker; moderate alcohol use only
Professional references required
Current STCW and ENG1 before start

Chef / Stewardess Responsibilities

Meal planning and preparation in coordination with the owners
Provisioning
Interior management, housekeeping and laundry
Inventory management
Supporting guest and charter operations
Assisting with docking and line handling
Watch standing

Terms & Compensation
Competitive salary appropriate for highly experienced offshore crew
Start date between October and December 2026
Basic health insurance provided
Flights/repatriation provided

Applicants should prepare a letter of introduction and CVs for both positions; further application instructions will be provided through the recruitment channel.

Projected Itinerary — Subject to Change
2026
September – Grenada (maintenance period)
October and November – St. Vincent & the Grenadines, ABCs, Colombia
December – San Blas Islands, Panama
2027
January & February – Panama Canal transit & Pacific Panama
March – Galapagos
May through November – French Polynesia — Marquesas, Tuamotus, Tahiti
2028
Fiji
New Zealand