About this role
Chief Engineer - 46m New Build Feadship Explorer Motor Yacht - Private
Start Date: Mid-September / Early October 2026
Location: Feadship Shipyard (Netherlands)
Flag: Marshall Islands
Contract: Full-time
Vessel: 46m Feadship Explorer | 425 GT | Delivery June 2027
Program: Private, expedition style
Itinerary: Year 1 will be in the Med. Year 2 between Med and Norther Europe and Year 3 with Greenland and NW passage.
We are seeking an experienced Chief Engineer to join a 46m Feadship explorer yacht currently under construction. Starting in mid-September 2026, you'll play a key role in the final stages of the build, working closely with the shipyard, project office, and onboard team through delivery in June 2027 and beyond.
This is a unique opportunity to help build the engineering department from the ground up and prepare the yacht for an exciting long-term expedition program. The vessel will operate as a private, family-oriented yacht with American owners who plan to cruise the Mediterranean before embarking on ambitious voyages through Northern Europe, Greenland, the Northwest Passage, and eventually the Americas.
The yacht features an advanced diesel-electric propulsion system with two Rolls-Royce azimuth pods, powered by three large generators, making this an excellent opportunity for an engineer interested in modern propulsion technology.
Requirements
- Minimum 3000 kW Chief Engineer license
- Previous experience on similar-sized yachts or new-build projects preferred
- Experience with diesel-electric propulsion systems is advantageous
- Strong troubleshooting and fault-finding abilities
- Hands-on, proactive team player with a positive attitude
- Comfortable working closely with the shipyard and project management team
- Excellent verifiable references
- Valid STCW and ENG1
- Fluent English (native or near-native preferred)
- Willing to undergo a criminal background check prior to employment
Package
- Salary: $7k/€6k until December 31st. From January 1st increasing to $9k/€8k.
- Leave:
- before deliver (June 2027): 30 days
- after delivery: 60 days
- 3:3 rotation starting Sept 1 2027
- Medical insurance provided by the vessel
- Accommodation during build phase (current): provided near the shipyard (private bedroom and bathroom + shared common areas with the Captain and Chief Stewardess).
- All accommodation expenses covered by the vessel
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