Sailing the Lifeline: Portsmouth/Jersey RoPax Operations
Join the crew of the next directly managed UK Flag RoPax operating the lifeline service between Portsmouth and Jersey.
Are you ready to take your seafaring career to the next level? DFDS proudly hold Verified Seafarer Charter Status in the UK, and we are expanding our fleet with a RoPax vessel transferring to DFDS management under UK Flag.
This is more than a job. It’s your chance to join an employer recognised for doing things the right way: championing fair conditions, investing in professional development, and developing a culture where seafarers genuinely thrive.
Your Opportunity
We’re recruiting dedicated Deck and Engine professionals in all ranks and in permanent roles to help shape the next chapter of this essential service. If you’re driven, want to grow and are ready to be part of a team that sets industry standards, then we want you aboard!
We’re Recruiting Across Multiple Roles
Deck Department
Captains, Chief Officers, Second Officers, Third Officers, Bosuns, Able Seafarers.
Engineering Department
Chief Engineers, Second Engineers, Third Engineers, Motormen, Fitters.
What You Bring
We are looking for professionals who:
Hold all relevant STCW95 certification appropriate to their role, including Certificate of Competency (CoC) where applicable
Are competent in essential muster and emergency duties
Maintain high standards of safety, service, and operational reliability
Demonstrate strong communication skills
Work effectively under strict deadlines in dynamic and pressurised environments
Show initiative, flexibility, and a strong team-oriented mindset
Remain calm under pressure and approach challenges with a positive attitude
Are fluent in English
Why Join DFDS?
As part of DFDS, you will join a dedicated maritime team committed to the highest standards of safety, technical excellence, and customer service.
This is a permanent position offering stability and long-term career development within a forward-looking international organisation. You will also benefit from a structured 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off rotation, supporting a healthy work-life balance.
Ready to Embark?
If this sounds like the right next step in your career, we would be pleased to hear from you.
Applications are now open. Please submit your CV and cover letter via this job advert.
What to Know Before You Apply
All positions are subject to:
A statutory seafarer medical examination
Completion of internal training requirements
Holding a valid passport at the time of the interview
DFDS does not operate any blacklists to prevent seafarers from gaining employment.
Join DFDS, be part of the movement, and build a long-term career at sea.
- Department
- Careers at sea
- Locations
- DFDS Portsmouth (Portsmouth International Port, Portsmouth) PO2 8SP
- People manager position
- No
About DFDS UK & Ireland
About DFDS
We operate a transport network in and around Europe with an annual revenue of DKK 30bn and 16,100 full-time employees.
We move goods in trailers by ferry, road & rail, and we offer complementary and related transport and logistics solutions.
We also move car and foot passengers on short sea and overnight ferry routes.
DFDS was founded in 1866 and headquartered and listed in Copenhagen.
Be part of DFDS and be part of the movement.