Port Authority cadet to find his sea legs aboard Pacific Adventure

Proudly, donning his new crisp white P&O uniform, Port Authority cadet Sean Griffiths has set sail aboard Pacific Adventure as part of a three-month work placement, becoming Port Authority of NSW’s first ever sponsored cadet to join a local cruise ship from Sydney.

Port Authority of NSW’s CEO, Captain Philip Holliday, said the dream opportunity was made possible by P&O Cruises Australia who have worked closely with Port Authority to make this a reality.

“To have this kind of firsthand exposure to the operation of the cruise ship – watching the captain and crew manage the direction and complex operation of a cruise ship – is a wonderful opportunity for any maritime cadet,” said Captain Holliday. 

“The cadet opportunity provided by P&O Cruises Australia will also help Sean to bolster his practical sea-time experience, which is required by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to achieve a Watchkeeping Certificate.

“The experience is a great opportunity for Sean to learn more about mooring and unmooring operations, planning voyages, checking lifesaving and firefighting appliances, taking part in navigation watches and generally understanding how a cruise ship operates.

“The work behind this initiative has been led by our Port Authority Marine Pilots Michael Kelly and Luke Nye who have been instrumental in implementing this successful cadet program.

Captain Holliday added Port Authority’s cadet program over the past five years has helped a total of eight seafarers embark on a maritime career.

“Sean will be able to take away invaluable experience that will help him to further build his maritime career and use what he learns across all types of vessels not just cruise ships in the future.”

Port Authority Deck Cadet Sean Griffiths said he is excited to get onboard the Pacific Adventure to further hone his maritime skills as part of this on-the-job training opportunity.

“I’m looking forward to working in a cruise ship environment as this will add a new dimension to my maritime industry experience and further help me build my career,” said Mr Griffiths.

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