Service Record

From

To

Clan Sutherland

Cadet

9/1969

12/1969

Good Hope Castle

Cadet

8/1971

2/1972

Clan Grant

3rd Officer

3/1972

7/1972

Rothesay Castle

3rd Officer

1/1973

3/1973

Good Hope Castle

3rd Officer

5/1973

6/1973

Windsor Castle

3rd Officer

9/1973

1974

Southampton Castle

Extra 2nd Office

7/1975

1976

Clan Alpine

2nd Officer

1977

1978

Table Bay

2nd Officer

6/1978

11/1978

Career Summary

British & Commonwealth Shipping Company

Deck Cadet to Second Officer

September 1969 – January 1980 | London, United Kingdom

Began maritime career as a Deck Cadet, progressing to Third Navigating Officer after obtaining the 2nd Officer’s Certificate. Gained early sea experience aboard general cargo and Union-Castle mail ships. Promoted to Second Officer in 1975 after attaining the First Mate’s Certificate, serving across diverse vessel types including general cargo, reefer, bulk carriers, and container ships.

Townsend Thoresen Ferries / P&O European Ferries

Second Officer to Master

January 1980 – June 1994 | Dover, United Kingdom

Advanced to senior officer ranks after earning the Master’s Foreign-Going Certificate. Served aboard cross-channel ferries in a progression of roles from Second Officer to Chief Officer and ultimately Master. Demonstrated strong leadership, navigational expertise, and operational reliability in a high-frequency ferry service environment.

Eurotunnel

Terminal Operations Manager

July 1994 – September 1995 | Folkestone, United Kingdom

Oversaw operations of the Folkestone terminal, with key responsibilities including safe and efficient traffic flow, coordination of terminal logistics, and HR management of personnel. Ensured adherence to safety protocols and continuous operational performance during the early operational phase of the Eurotunnel.

Holland America Line

Captain (Master)

October 1995 – Present | Worldwide

Senior leadership role managing large ocean-going cruise ships, responsible for overall vessel operations, navigation, safety, fiscal performance, and guest satisfaction. Oversees departments with financial accountability, manages 600–900 crew members, and ensures the safety and well-being of over 2,000 guests per voyage. Extensive experience in global cruising with significant ship-handling expertise. Notably deployed on the fleet's flagship for multiple World Cruises, with five highly successful circumnavigations completed to date.

Jonathan Mercer

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