After qualifying with my Class II at Warsash, I was made redundant—just as tankers were expected to dominate the industry.

Following that, I joined B & C and served with Swire Pacific Offshore from 1981 to 1985 as Chief Mate. During this time, I worked aboard anchor handlers and well stimulation vessels, operating in regions including Brazil, West Africa, the Gulf of Suez, the Persian Gulf, and the South China Sea.

In 1985, I was laid off due to the sharp decline in oil prices, which led to widespread fleet lay-ups.

Subsequently, CI Shipping began operating the former Fyffes M-Boats along with the SA Tzaneen and Hexreviers for trade routes to the Gulf. Leveraging my previous experience in the Persian Gulf, I joined them for one trip as Second Officer.

I was soon promoted to Mate, completed my Master’s Certificate in 1987, and served as Master from 1993 to 2005 on Denadai Reefers.

I am currently employed by the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) as a Marine Advisor in the Marketing Department.