Summary
***INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY***
Steam Yacht Gondola is a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht. Visitors enjoy the charm of luxury travel once experienced by wealthy Victorians, riding in style in Gondola’s opulent saloons or relaxing on her open-air decks as she glides across Coniston Water.
They can watch the gleaming steam engine in operation from the open viewing windows and quiz the boat’s crew on its workings while they take in the spectacular scenery of the Coniston Fells and listen to the crew’s commentary on the area’s history and famous connections.
As a Crew you will take on a range of jobs from welcoming visitors to completing your training to operate a steam engine and skipper the boat.
Gondola is part of the Lakes and Eden Property Group which brings together many of the important heritage assets owned by the National Trust in this area.
This is a fixed term contract until 31st October 2026. The hours advertised for this role is reflective of 12 months, however the actual hours you’ll be required to work for this role are 1,138. The amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in equal instalments over the term of your contract.
What it's like to work here
Gondola sails on Coniston Water from April to October and during these months you will primarily be leading a small team of Crew, working alongside the, on the boat to ensure that visitors, staff volunteers and other lake users are safe and able to enjoy this unique heritage experience, you’ll br engaging visitors and answering questions about the boat and the stunning landscape. As steam engineer you’ll be responsible for the safe operation of the boiler and steam engine while answering questions from visitors. When skippering as well as being on the wheel you will be responsible for the safety of passengers, crew and other lake users. As qualified MCA Boatmaster you’ll enjoy being outdoors and on the Lake in all weathers.
In the winter Gondola undergoes winter maintenance, and you'll be the key lead in the planning and budgeting for this work – engaging with external organisations for expertise and leading on fundraising opportunities to maintain and restore Gondola for future generations.
What you'll be doing
You will lead a small, dedicated crew, making sure visitors are safe and enjoy an excellent experience on board. No two days will be the same, as you’ll be responsible for managing income and expenditure targets and leading the team to deliver against a range of key performance indicators. When needed, you’ll provide hands‑on support by working on the boat in operational roles including Purser, Engineer and Skipper, taking on all duties and delivering the visitor commentary. You’ll also plan and coordinate the winter works programme, working closely with your team to ensure it is delivered effectively. Alongside this, you’ll build and maintain strong relationships with local and national partners, funders and local craftspeople to help secure the future of the Gondola and lead medium‑sized capital restoration projects.
Who we're looking for
1. you have a Boatmaster qualification issued by the Marine & Coastguard Authority
2. customer focused with an understanding of the importance of great service
3. interested in heritage especially engines and steam or boats
4. a team player that can work well with others under pressure
5. well organised and adaptable
6. willing to learn new skills
7. have a positive attitude
8. able to work in a hot environment
9. able to work in all weathers
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
•Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
•Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
•Rental deposit loan scheme
•Season ticket loan
•EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
•Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
•Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
•Flexible working whenever possible
•Employee assistance programme
•Free parking at most Trust places