Director of Marine and Recreation

This needs relocation to the Caribbean.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Director of Marine & Adventure Experiences

Location: Caribbean Luxury Resort

Department: Recreation & Marine Operations

Reports To: General Manager / Director of Operations

Position Overview

The Director of Marine & Adventure Experiences is responsible for overseeing all ocean, island, and outdoor activity programs, ensuring exceptional, safe, and memorable guest experiences in alignment with luxury hospitality and Forbes service standards. This role leads all marine operations, including kayaking, paddle boarding, scuba diving, snorkelling, and boat excursions, while managing a high-performing team of captains, dive masters, and adventure guides.

The ideal candidate brings deep Caribbean operational experience, luxury resort expertise, and a strong background in marine safety, guest engagement, and equipment management.

Key Responsibilities

• Guest Experience & Service Excellence
• Deliver world-class adventure and marine programs aligned with 5-star and Forbes Travel Guide standards.
• Curate and enhance guided adventure experiences, including kayaking, paddle boarding, reef snorkelling, scuba diving, and marine excursions.
• Maintain the highest levels of guest safety, satisfaction, and personalized service across all activities.

Marine Operations Management

• Oversee daily marine operations, including boat schedules, tour planning, equipment usage, and safety briefings.
• Supervise and manage all boat captains, scuba dive masters, and water sports guides.
• Ensure proper operation, maintenance, and repair of all vessels, engines, marine equipment, and water sports gear.
• Conduct routine safety checks, risk assessments, and emergency response training for all team members.
• Maintain compliance with all maritime laws, safety regulations, and environmental protection standards.

Team Leadership & Training

• Lead, train, and motivate a team of adventure guides, boat skippers, captains, and dive professionals.
• Implement continuous training programs in marine safety, guest interaction, rescue techniques, equipment handling, and Forbes service behaviours.
• Ensure all dive personnel maintain proper certifications and follow safe diving practices.
• Administrative & Financial Oversight
• Oversee budgeting, equipment procurement, vendor relations, and operational reporting.
• Manage scheduling, payroll, SOP development, and inventory controls.
• Collaborate with Sales & Marketing to promote adventure offerings and create unique guest experiences.

Candidate Requirements, Experience & Background

• Minimum 7-10 years of leadership experience in marine operations, water sports management, adventure tourism, or recreation within luxury resorts.
• Mandatory Caribbean experience, with strong knowledge of local waters, marine ecosystems, guest expectations, and island logistics.
• Proven experience working in luxury hospitality, with exposure to 5-star standards.
• Forbes Travel Guide standards experience is required.
• Certified boat skipper/captain with hands-on experience navigating various vessel types.
• Strong background in managing scuba programs, including dive boats, dive masters, and underwater safety protocols.
• Experience with equipment maintenance, minor engine repair, or working alongside marine technicians.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and guest service skills.
• Strong crisis management, emergency response, and safety protocol knowledge.
• Ability to train and inspire multicultural teams.
• Physically fit, comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive.
• Passion for ocean conservation, marine life, and guest-centered adventure.
• Certifications (Preferred/Required)
• Boat Captain License (internationally recognized or Caribbean equivalent).
• Dive Master or Dive Instructor certification (PADI/SSI).
• First Aid / CPR / Emergency Response certification.
• Maritime Safety & Environmental Compliance certifications (Preferred/Required)