Taking cadets onboard is an investment in the future of maritime, but for vessel operators, there is a lot that needs to happen before a cadet ever steps onboard.
For 66 Expeditions, working with Watermark has provided a more efficient way to manage that process, reducing the demands on both vessel and shoreside teams while continuing to bring promising new talent onboard Seaventure.
The challenge
Like many others, 66 Expeditions previously managed the process of sourcing cadets directly.
The solution
Watermark manages the cadet placement process for 66 Expeditions, including candidate screening and the procedures required to get cadets onboard Seaventure.
By taking much of that work away from the vessel and shoreside teams, the partnership has reduced the administrative burden and created a more structured process from selection through to joining.
As Captain Remi Eriksen explains:
“Working with Watermark has made the process considerably more efficient for us. It reduces the administrative workload for our team and allows us to focus on our core operational responsibilities.”
For us, that’s ultimately what a good partnership should do: solve a problem without creating another one.
The right people onboard
For 66 Expeditions, the quality of the placements has been just as important as the simplicity of the process. The cadets joining Seaventure have integrated well with the wider crew and demonstrated the professionalism, positive attitude and willingness to learn expected onboard.
“We have been very happy with the quality of the cadets placed onboard Seaventure. They have integrated well with the wider crew and have demonstrated a positive attitude, willingness to learn and professionalism.”
It’s a result that works on both sides: 66 Expeditions gains enthusiastic new talent without an unnecessarily resource-heavy process, while cadets gain meaningful sea time, experience and the opportunity to learn as part of an established crew.
A partnership with practical value
The relationship demonstrates that investing in the next generation doesn’t need to add complexity to vessel operations.
Watermark provides the structure and support behind each placement, while 66 Expeditions provides the environment in which cadets can put their training into practice.
Captain Remi sums up the experience:
“We would be happy to recommend Watermark to other vessel operators. Their involvement simplifies the cadet recruitment and placement process, while providing us with cadets who have fitted well into our operation and crew.”
For us, that’s what successful cadet management looks like: making it easier for good operators to give the next generation their opportunity at sea.
