Nautic Trainee Program A0 Sailor, Viking
Viking
| Company | Viking |
| Category | Uncategorised |
| Location | European Union (Rivers) |
| Remote | On-site (inferred) |
| Employment | Not stated |
| Level | Not stated |
| Salary | Not stated by the employer |
| Posted | 13 May 2026 |
| Last verified | 11 Aug 2026 |
| Source | The employer's own careers page (company_site) |
Description
Position Overview
Education Required: Minimum high school diploma
Description
Viking is hiring entry-level candidates for the Nautical Trainee Program A0 Sailor onboard its Viking Longships across European Union river routes, offering an inland shipping career pathway through structured training led by the Captain and a dedicated trainer team.
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world, designed for curious travellers with interests in science, history, culture, and cuisine. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name and is rated #1 for Rivers, Oceans, and Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2023 and 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.
The A0 Sailor Program is part of Viking’s Nautical Education Program for candidates new to inland shipping. The training takes place onboard a Viking Longship, requires 90 sailing days, and ends with an exam. On successful completion, candidates receive a Sailor (Matrose) qualification and are offered a Sailor contract with Viking. All education costs are covered by Viking. The program actively supports gender equality with structures for both female and male applicants.
Responsibilities
• Actively participate in the onboard training program led by the Captain.
• Study assigned course material and attend an exam after 90 days of practical training.
• Support safety onboard as assigned by the Captain.
• Comply with guidelines, instructions, and regulations (nautical manual).
• Maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and order onboard.
• Report damage, issues, and concerns immediately to the Captain.
• Be familiar with the security role and understand duties.
• Maintain operational readiness of the rescue boat.
• Maintain the external appearance of the ship.
• Exchange information with the Captain, First Officer, and Engineer.
• Secure the ship appropriately and professionally.
• Safely deploy the gangway under Captain or First Officer instruction.
• Be present on deck while navigating narrow waters and when securing the ship in a lock.
• Close passenger access to staircases when passing low bridges.
• Maintain the sundeck to guest expectations.
• Carry out deck and outboard work, luggage service, mooring and unmooring, anchoring, and steering under supervision.
• Maintain the ship and equipment, including keeping it clean and hygienic.
• Participate in meetings and company training.
Requirements
• Minimum high school diploma.
• English language knowledge.
• Eligibility to work in the European Union or possession of a relevant work permit.
• Motivated and eager to learn.
• Polite team player able to follow instructions and remain flexible.
Preferred Qualifications
• Dutch and/or German language knowledge.
Additional Notes
• Trainee program located in the European Union.
• All training content is in English and available online 24/7.
• 90 sailing days required for completion, followed by an exam.
• Sailor (Matrose) qualification and Sailor contract offered on successful completion.
• All education costs covered by Viking.
How to Apply
Apply through the Viking careers portal.