Type of contract : Fixed-term Contract
Location : Cong, Mayo, Ireland
Activity : Other
Experience required : No information
Published on 27/04/2026
Water Sports Instructor – Luxury Hotel
Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland
Employment type: Full time - Fixed Term
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends and Bank Holidays)
We are currently recruiting for a Water sports instructor to join the team at Ashford Castle, Ireland’s first Forbes Five Star Hotel. This role offers a unique opportunity to deliver exceptional outdoor guest experiences, upholding the highest standards of service as set by Forbes Five Star and The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. The successful candidate will play a key role in creating memorable moments for our guests through expert guidance, warm hospitality, and a deep knowledge of the estate’s activities and countryside offerings.
What's in it for you?
- Professional, award winning training and development opportunities
- Discounted accommodation rates with Red Carnation Hotel Collection
- Annual Staff Appreciation Party and other Employee Recognition Events
- Discounted rates with many local businesses and third-party service providers (including Estate Activities)
- Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability)
- Free meals on duty
- Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire
- Recommend friend and family bonus scheme
- Two paid volunteering days each year
- Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 25 days
- Hotel based recognition incentives
- Free access to Employee Assistance Programme
Key responsibilities of the Water sports instructor will include, but are not limited to:
· Responsible for the delivery of Canoeing excursions on the Ashford Castle Estate.
· Assist in the planning and delivery of other outdoor estate activities such as Axe Throwing, Fishing, Croquet and Bike Rental.
· Help inspect, prepare and maintain activity areas and equipment to ensure a safe and smooth experience for guests.
· Support the senior team in tailoring activities to guest interests, ensuring attention to detail and personal touches.
· Welcome guests and provide friendly, knowledgeable assistance throughout their activity experience.
· Build positive working relationships with team members and external activity providers.
· Follow established safety procedures and help monitor equipment conditions.
· Liaise with front-of-house, concierge, and guest services teams to coordinate booking details and guest preferences.
· Assist in ensuring smooth communication between the estate activity team and other departments.
Red Carnation Hotels is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
As part of the recruitment process, we may electronically scan and securely store a copy of your passport, visa and/or ID card for the purpose of verifying the authenticity of the document and establishing your Right to Work in the Republic of Ireland, in line with statutory requirements.
The ideal candidate for the Water Sports Instructor position should:
Essential:
- An instructor level 2 or higher qualification with Canoeing Ireland in Canoeing or Kayaking.
- Previous experience guiding canoe tours in a recreational setting.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage with guests and colleagues alike.
- High level of self-motivation, initiative, and reliability.
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- First aid qualification.
Desirable:
- Previous experience in a 5-star hospitality setting.
- A full, clean driving license.
- Qualifications in other outdoor education and country activities such as Mountain Leadership, Climbing Wall Instructor, Mountain Bike Leader, Sailing Instructor etc.
With origins dating back to the 13th century, magnificent Ashford Castle has witnessed a rich and storied history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a grand retreat. Throughout the years, the castle has hosted royalty, nobility, and prominent figures, earning a reputation as one of Ireland's most iconic and celebrated landmarks.
The royal adventure begins as you enter through the grand stone gates of our Forbes Five-Star hotel. Now a proud part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, the magnificent Ashford Castle has stood sentinel on the shores of Lough Corrib for over 800 years. With an estate of such spectacular proportions, every moment spent within its grounds creates indelible memories. Once home to the Guinness family and today a multi-generational resort, Ashford Castle is lovingly managed by a dedicated team that passionately cares about every single guest.
