Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines recently hosted 24 Sea Cadets from the Edinburgh District Sea Cadets, providing them with a unique opportunity to explore life at sea aboard a cruise ship. On Thursday, June 27th, 2024, during the Balmoral’s first visit of the year to Rosyth port, the Sea Cadets received a warm welcome from the Balmoral’s Bridge Team, including Captain Steffan Ravneng, Safety Officer Euan Ross, and two deck cadets.
The cadets enjoyed breakfast with Captain Ravneng, where they discussed maritime life, followed by a tour of the lower decks, including the engine control room. They also explored the ship’s public spaces and concluded their visit with lunch at the Ballindalloch restaurant. Participants included young cadets from various groups within the Edinburgh District, such as the Edinburgh Trinity Unit, Leith Unit, Musselburgh Unit, and Dunbar Unit.
Ewan Galloway, District Officer for Edinburgh Sea Cadets, said: “Bringing together cadets from all across Edinburgh for a cruise ship experience was a remarkable opportunity to showcase and embrace the skills cultivated in the Sea Cadets. This visit not only highlighted the relevance of these skills in the maritime sector but also left every cadet feeling privileged and inspired. “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for the wonderful opportunity provided by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Seeing the cadets’ faces light up upon arriving at the beautiful ship, Balmoral, was truly delightful.”
Stewart Ferguson, Head of Quality and Resource, at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “It’s always a real pleasure for us to welcome young people on board our ships to learn more about life at sea. As a business that places a huge amount of importance on supporting local communities, we are proud to have welcomed the Edinburgh District Sea Cadets aboard Balmoral. “There are so many opportunities to grow, develop and lead fulfilling careers across the maritime sector and we hope to have inspired some of these bright young minds about what can be available in their own futures.”
Founded in 1856, the Sea Cadets is a national youth charity that offers diverse opportunities and adventures to young people aged 10 to 18, structured around a ranking system akin to the Royal Navy.
