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Captain

Posted: 08/19/2026

Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) seeks an enthusiastic, hard-working individual to join our team as a full-time Captain for schooners Inland Seas and Alliance. The ideal candidate has experience working on traditional sailing vessels, navigating the Great Lakes, and holds, at minimum, a USCG 100 Ton Great Lakes Master’s License, with Sail Endorsement. This position reports to ISEA’s Senior Captain and is responsible for the Mate, Deckhands, and Cook while onboard. ISEA operates two schooners, Inland Seas and Alliance, based in Suttons Bay, Michigan and operating throughout the Great Lakes. We conduct overnight programs with up to 18 students plus crew and day programs with up to 35 students plus crew. Our vessels are used for Great Lakes environmental education and scientific research. It is the mission of ISEA to enhance public understanding and stewardship of the Great Lakes through hands-on shipboard and onshore educational programs for youth and adults. ISEA fosters a positive, safe, and inclusive culture. We seek team members who can create a great work environment for people of all backgrounds so that our busy season is safe and enjoyable. The full-time role of Captain is a year-round position based in Suttons Bay, MI. The sailing season runs from mid-April through mid-October, during which the Captain is responsible for ship operations. During the non-sailing season, the Captain oversees ship maintenance and repairs, seasonal crew hiring, and volunteer crew training.  To apply, please submit a resume and letter of interest to Senior Captain Ben Hale at isea@schoolship.org. References will be requested for final candidates. Position open until filled. Applications accepted on a rolling basis. 
For a complete job posting, please go to https://schoolship.org/about-isea/join-our-team/