The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE first 50 Bahamian seafarer candidates in Grand Bahama are in their final phase of training in preparation of being selected to work on board the Grand Celebration cruise ship.

On Thursday the candidates will have completed 40 hours of STCW95 (Standard of Training Certification & Watchkeeping), which is a mandatory maritime training requirement for all seafarers.

Capt Glen Lightbourne is conducting the STCW certification course, with Gadites Maritime & Navigational Institution, at the Cadet Maritime Training Institute at the Police College.

The programme is a basic five-day course of instruction. The course has to be renewed every five years, or under certain conditions.

Charles Kinnear, president and CEO of Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, had reported that they are looking to hire 300 Bahamians in phases to work on the cruise ship, which provides expanded ferry service between Grand Bahama and Palm Beach Florida.

On March 4, potential candidates were invited for an orientation/recruiting exercise on the ship. Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe said it is an opportunity for Bahamians to have a first chance to be involved in the cruise industry.

“All of you represents a new day, you are pioneers; you are the first. You will determine where we go from here, you will determine whether or not other Bahamians will be given the opportunity…” he said.

Before the candidates are hired, they are required to undergo an intense training programme, which includes hospitality training, a medical exam, and some 40 hours of maritime training. Once they complete training, the candidates would be eligible to work on board any other cruise vessel in the world.

Mr Kinnear said anyone who qualifies will be selected to work on the cruise. George Zeitler, vice-president of marine operations, said positions are available in various areas in the hotel operations on the ship, in the galley, restaurants, and bar services.

“We are looking for cooks, waiters, bartenders, all the way through to spas.”