The skills, training and teamwork of Wightlink crews are being celebrated today (Thursday) as the ferry operator marks World Maritime Day.
World Maritime Day, held on 24th September, provides an opportunity to recognise those working across the maritime industry and the role they play in keeping services moving.
For Wightlink, that includes the teams behind thousands of journeys made between the Isle of Wight and the mainland, with passengers relying on ferries to get to work, attend appointments, visit friends and family, enjoy holidays or simply get home.
Behind every sailing is a team trained and prepared to respond when things do not go to plan.
In recent months, Wightlink crews have dealt with a wide range of situations beyond the routine operation of ferry services. These have included assisting motorists whose vehicles have broken down onboard, responding to medical incidents and supporting emergencies in the Solent.
Crews have also rescued a passenger who had gone overboard.
Although such situations are rare, responding to them can require staff to draw on their training and experience, work quickly under pressure and coordinate with colleagues onboard and ashore, as well as the emergency services when required.
Katy Taylor, Wightlink Chief Executive, has said:
“World Maritime Day is a chance to recognise and thank the people who keep our industry moving. Behind every sailing are colleagues using their skills, experience and professionalism to deliver safe, reliable and efficient services for our customers.
“Whether they’re working on board our ships, in our ports or behind the scenes, our people play a vital role in keeping the Isle of Wight connected. I’m incredibly proud of the dedication, teamwork and commitment they show every day.
“What our customers see is a ferry arriving and departing port, but there are a lot of people working together behind the scenes to make every sailing happen.
“Whether they’re on board our ships, working in our ports or supporting operations ashore, our colleagues play an important part in keeping services running safely and reliably every day.”
Every sailing brings together people with different roles and responsibilities.
Bridge teams navigate the route, engineers monitor and maintain ferry systems, deck teams manage vehicle movements and passenger services colleagues look after customers.
Shore-based teams also support everything from maintenance and training to operational planning and emergency preparedness.
Wightlink carries 4.3million passengers to and from the Isle of Wight every year, with 8 ferries completing more than 34,000 sailings annually across its 3 routes. The operator runs more than 140 crossings a day.
