Navigation / Ship Handling Instructor – Abu Dhabi

Navigation / Ship Handling Instructor – Abu Dhabi Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE Contract Type: Freelance / Short-Term Contract Duration: 20 paid working days Start Date: 2 November 2026 Potential: Opportunity for further follow-on work Role Overview VETWORK is looking for an experienced Navigation / Ship Handling Instructor to support a short-term maritime training programme in Abu Dhabi. The role will focus on practical navigation, bridge procedures, vessel handling and operational familiarisation. We are particularly interested in candidates with strong seagoing experience who are confident delivering practical instruction to others. Suitable backgrounds may include Royal Navy Warfare Officer, Navigator, Officer of the Watch, Merchant Navy Deck Officer, Master Mariner, Yachtmaster, patrol vessel operator or equivalent maritime roles. Key Responsibilities Deliver practical navigation and ship handling training to client personnel. Provide instruction on bridge procedures and watchkeeping. Support vessel familiarisation from a navigation and operational perspective. Deliver training in areas such as passage planning, navigation, manoeuvring, bridge routines and situational awareness. Support practical exercises and scenario-based training. Assist with emergency procedures and drills where relevant. Explain navigation and ship handling principles clearly to personnel with varying levels of experience. Work closely with the wider instructional team and client representatives throughout the programme. Preferred Background Strong seagoing and bridge experience. Previous Royal Navy navigation or warfare experience would be highly desirable. Candidates from Merchant Navy, commercial maritime, offshore or specialist vessel backgrounds will also be considered. Experience as an Officer of the Watch, Navigator, Deck Officer, Master Mariner or equivalent. Strong understanding of bridge procedures, vessel handling and maritime navigation. Previous instructional, training or mentoring experience is desirable. Experience with passage planning, bridge watchkeeping, navigation systems and vessel familiarisation. Ability to communicate clearly and confidently in a practical training environment. Experience working within defence, government or international maritime environments would be advantageous. Location and Availability Candidates already based in the UAE are preferred, particularly those based in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. Candidates must be available for the anticipated 20-working-day engagement commencing 2 November 2026. Contract Details 20 paid working days. Expected programme period: Monday to Friday from 2 November 2026. Freelance engagement. Potential for additional work following successful completion of the initial programme. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate will combine strong practical navigation and ship handling experience with the ability to instruct, demonstrate and communicate effectively. This role would particularly suit an experienced naval or commercial maritime professional who has spent significant time on the bridge and is comfortable delivering practical, hands-on training in an operational maritime environment.