Assistant Ferry Master

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is seeking qualified and experienced Assistant Ferry Masters to support its maritime and ferry operations team in Mombasa. This role is ideal for professionals pursuing assistant ferry master jobs in Kenya, maritime navigation careers, and opportunities within KPA’s expanding marine operations division. The position involves ensuring safe vessel operations, leading crew activities, supporting navigation procedures, and maintaining high safety standards during ferry operations across the busy Mombasa channel.

Key Job Information

• Position: Assistant Ferry Master (8 Positions)
• Location: Mombasa, Kenya
• Job ID: KPA7
• Posted On: 25 November 2025
• Application Deadline: 20 December 2025
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Mid-level

About Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)

Kenya Ports Authority oversees the Port of Mombasa and other national port facilities, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant maritime operations. KPA provides diverse career opportunities in maritime transport, ferry navigation, port logistics, marine engineering, and safety operations. The organization operates under international maritime conventions, including IMO standards, the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, and national maritime legislation. Working at KPA offers stable career growth, structured training, and the opportunity to play a vital role in Kenya’s maritime transport system.

Role Overview

The Assistant Ferry Master supports ferry operations by ensuring the vessel’s safe navigation, crew coordination, and compliance with maritime regulations. The role requires strong oversight of vessel movement, passenger safety, cargo security, and response readiness during emergencies. This position is suited for maritime professionals seeking ferry master careers in Mombasa, nautical operations roles, and marine safety supervisory opportunities within a national port authority environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Exercise overall command of the ferry when required and supervise crew activities onboard.
• Ensure safety of crew, passengers, and cargo during carriage, vessel movement, anchorage, and ramp operations.
• Observe navigation safety standards and maintain adherence to applicable maritime regulations.
• Respond promptly to maritime distress calls within operational reach.
• Conduct pre-sea checks to confirm the ferry’s mechanical and operational readiness.
• Steer the vessel during berthing, unberthing, mooring, and unmooring operations.
• Update the ship’s logbook accurately and maintain an active radio watch.
• Provide emergency instructions and operational directives when required.
• Communicate relevant safety information to ferry passengers through the Public Address System.
• Facilitate familiarization training for new crew members on vessel equipment and operations.
• Lead and participate in periodic emergency drills to ensure effective preparedness.
• Ensure vessel cleanliness and promote compliance with marine environmental protection standards.
• Oversee ferry bunkering operations and observe vessel traffic flow in the channel.
• Coordinate ferry movement alongside other operators to maintain smooth and safe navigation.

Required Qualifications

• KCSE Certificate or its equivalent.
• Diploma in Nautical Studies or a related field from a recognized institution.
• Minimum of four (4) years of relevant maritime working experience.
• Master Port Operation Certificate of Competency.
• Certificate in Safety Training.
• Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Radio Certificate.
• Valid medical certificate as prescribed by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).
• Standard Training for Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) compliance.
• Fulfillment of Chapter 6 requirements of the Constitution of Kenya.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certificate of Competency (COC) Master Mariner qualifies as an added advantage.
• Training in customer relations is an added advantage.
• Experience in ferry operations, marine navigation, and maritime safety systems.

Benefits

• Competitive public-sector salary aligned with maritime standards.
• Medical cover for employees and eligible dependents.
• Pension benefits and long-term job security.
• Professional training and skill enhancement opportunities.
• Structured career progression within Kenya Ports Authority.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before 20 December 2025. This is a valuable opportunity for maritime professionals seeking assistant ferry master jobs in Mombasa, nautical operations roles in Kenya, and long-term careers at Kenya Ports Authority. Click the Apply Now button below to begin the application process.