Marine tourism operators along Western Australia’s north coast say they are fighting a losing battle with the state’s mining and energy sector for qualified skippers and other staff.

Tour operator Jeremy Tucker said workers were difficult to find despite the growing popularity of coastal tours throughout WA.

“I think it’s particularly worse now than it’s ever been and it’ll probably only get worse for us in the future,” he said.

Mr Tucker’s business runs tours along the Kimberley coastline, taking in destinations such as Broome and Wyndham.

Although tours are popular, Mr Tucker said high salaries had become a contributing factor in the search for skippers.

“There are some pretty good opportunities with oil and gas companies,” he said.

Struggling to stay afloat

The Abrolhos Islands, 460 kilometres north-west of Perth, are known for clear blue waters and diverse marine life.

The islands attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year, but operators are facing the same challenges as those in the Kimberley.

Eco tour skipper Bronson Cox said many people had turned down working for him in favour of more lucrative pay in mining and resources.

“That’s happened four or five times [this year] and there just aren’t any other applicants,” he said.

Mr Cox said the business had been advertising for skippers since November last year and was already considering cancelling tours.

“My dad’s out on the big boat at the moment and had to call one of his friends to come drive the smaller boat,” he said.

“That decision was made right down to the final hour.

Targeted programs needed

Tourism Council WA chief executive Evan Hall said operators had raised staff shortages as their number one issue for several years.

“We’re getting international tourists back who are far more likely to do marine tours and for that you need skilled staff to provide a safe and fantastic service,” he said.

Mr Hall said the lack of housing in regional areas also contributed to the skipper shortage.

“I think it’s critical for the migration programs that the federal government runs to attract skilled staff are also favouring or at least recognising regional areas,” he said.

A state government spokesperson said it was backing a number of initiatives to boost tourism employment.

“We’re investing in a dedicated tourism jobs portal, targeted marketing campaign and specialised training to help skill local workers,” they said.

“The government has invested $2 million for upgrades to Central Regional TAFE’s maritime training vessel master class.”