Who's navigating? Life on the ocean wave
In this series, The Navigator speaks to current navigational personnel about their motivations, careers to date and thoughts for the future. First under the spotlight is cruise ship Second Officer, Oliver Chasteauneuf MNI – a graduate of Plymouth University and lifelong sailing enthusiast.
What interested you in a career at sea?
As a child I lived inland, nowhere near the sea, yet by the age of 10, I had discovered an interest in sailing. I used to visit Navy Days at Portsmouth and Plymouth regularly with my parents. By the age of 12, I had decided that I wanted to go to sea as a career.
What career path has led to your current position?
As my interest in sailing developed I enjoyed teaching others. I discovered the graduate training scheme at Plymouth University, where I could combine my interests in ships and sailing with a professional qualification and degree in nautical studies.
In 2004 I applied to Plymouth University, securing sponsorship from Small Ships Training Group (SSTG). The SSTG gave me sea experience on the general cargo ships of Scot Line and cruise ships of Holland America. With Scot Line I acquired basic seamanship skills, including ship handling; while on the cruise ships of Holland America I saw the world whilst developing my passage planning and ocean navigation skills.
Where do you see your career going from here?
I am intent on achieving a Certificate of Competency as a Master Mariner, to have the opportunity of command. My longerterm ambition is to become a marine pilot, where I can combine a stable home life with my professional skills.
How do you feel when you are in charge of a navigation watch?
In my present position as Second Officer on the MV Eurodam I feel a great sense of responsibility. On a cruise ship, the bridge is the central hub. It is associated not only with safe passage making, but other concerns such as ship security, fire control, weather routeing and medical emergencies.
I am always conscious of the 3,000 people on board and that, during my watch, their safe enjoyment rests with my abilities and skills. There is also the constant pressure of maintaining the ship’s schedule whilst optimising fuel usage, satisfying passenger needs and accommodating the unexpected.
I am always conscious of the 3,000 people on board and that, during my watch, their safe enjoyment rests with my abilities and skills
What are the greatest rewards from your life at sea?
Financially, the rewards are good, compared to positions ashore and employment in the cruise ship sector is stable. There is also great satisfaction in working with the ship’s crew to achieve the standards demanded of the company. And yes, future prospects are bright, with the possibility of command at a reasonably early age.
What do you think are the greatest challenges for future navigators?
I think the greatest challenges for the future navigator lie in job changes as technology advances. I don’t fear technological takeover though – despite advances in technology, I cannot ever see a time when cruise ship passengers will accept an unmanned, totally automated bridge.
Cruise ships meet exacting navigational standards, however we do not sail the seas alone. Interaction with other ships operating at lower standards causes me concern. This remains a challenge for the whole industry.
Got something to say?
If you are a serving navigator, or are studying with a view to joining a crew, we would love to hear from you. Contact the editor at navigator@nautinst.org