Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Deck Tales: Secrets From The Sea. Behind the Scenes Stories from Cruise Ships and Crew Members from Maritime and Sea Life

Ep60: Ravi Chaudhry

Last guest of season 3 is veteran merchant navy captain Ravi Chaudhry, whose 34-year seafaring career spanned the transition from celestial navigation to modern GPS-driven shipping. Ravi reflects on joining the merchant navy as a teenager from Punjab with little understanding of life at sea, before rising through the ranks to command massive OBO (oil-bulk-ore) carriers.

We delved into the realities of old-school seamanship, navigating before GPS, engine room fires, and handling the weighty responsibility of command.

Ravi also discusses the human cost of life at sea — loneliness, isolation, mental health struggles, and the impact of modern social media on younger seafarers. He contrasts the camaraderie and social culture of earlier decades with today’s more isolated, technology-driven environment.

• Seafaring is a lifestyle, not just a job — Ravi emphasizes the emotional and psychological challenges of long periods away from home, isolation, and the unique pressures of maritime life.
• Technology has improved shipping, but overreliance is dangerous — Modern systems make navigation easier, but Ravi warns that younger officers risk losing core practical seamanship skills.
• Leadership at sea requires calm under pressure — As master, Ravi learned that crews constantly observe the captain’s behavior, especially during crises.
• Near misses stay with seafarers forever — Even when disasters are avoided, the “what if” moments linger long after a voyage ends.
• Merchant shipping has changed dramatically — Ravi witnessed the evolution from manual calculations and celestial navigation to computer-based systems and digital communication.
• Mental health and loneliness are growing concerns onboard — Constant connectivity and social media comparisons can worsen isolation for modern crews.
• Mentorship matters — Ravi now uses social media to guide younger seafarers, particularly cadets facing bullying, harassment, or uncertainty about life at sea.
• Old-school camaraderie has faded — Earlier ship life centered around shared experiences, music, games, and crew bonding, while today many seafarers spend off-hours isolated on devices.
• Safety must outweigh commercial pressure — Ravi recalls refusing charterers’ demands to push a vessel harder in dangerous weather, prioritizing crew and ship safety over profit.
• Adaptability is essential for survival in the industry — Ravi credits his longevity at sea to embracing change rather than resisting new technologies.

00:00 – Intro

03:12 – Joining the Merchant Navy

08:41 – Cargo Ship Life

14:26 – Before GPS

20:18 – Celestial Navigation

26:05 – Engine Room Fire

33:47 – Death at Sea

40:52 – Near Misses

47:10 – Extreme Storms

54:39 – Captain’s Responsibility

1:00:44 – Technology at Sea

1:07:15 – Seafarer Mental Health

1:13:36 – Old vs Modern Shipping

1:20:08 – Safety vs Profit

1:26:42 – Advice for Young Seafarers

1:31:04 – Final Reflections

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Ep59: Paul Thornton

Today I flipped the script on fellow podcaster Paul Thornton—lifelong cruise enthusiast, author of The Joy of Cruising book series, and host of The Joy of Cruising Podcast.

Paul shares his unconventional journey from military psychiatric work to corporate finance, entrepreneurship in the video rental boom, and eventually academia—before finding his true passion in cruising and storytelling. A transformative 2018 family cruise sparked his writing career, which evolved into a podcast where each episode captures unique, human stories from the world of cruising.

The conversation dives into the realities of cruise culture from a passenger’s lens, the power of storytelling, and the emotional highs (and occasional fears) of life at sea. From near-misses with a missing grandson to unforgettable themed cruises, Paul brings decades of experience—and perspective—to the mic.

• Passion evolves over time
• Paul’s career path proves it’s never too late to pivot toward what you truly love.
• Storytelling is the heart of cruising
• Whether through books or podcasts, compelling human experiences drive engagement.
• Cruising is more than a vacation
• For enthusiasts, it’s a lifestyle, community, and even an identity.
• Themed cruises create unmatched experiences
• Shared passions (music, culture, etc.) elevate connection and enjoyment onboard.
• Adversity can spark creativity
• The pandemic disrupted Paul’s work—but ultimately led to deeper storytelling and new formats.
• There’s an untold side of cruise life
• Behind the glamour lies a complex crew experience that rarely gets fully explored.

00:00 – The Night Everything Changed at Sea…

02:18 – Meet Paul Thornton: From Military to Cruise Expert

06:45 – His Unexpected Journey Into Academia & Becoming a Doctor

11:32 – Corporate Success, Video Rentals & Reinventing His Career

16:10 – The Cruise That Sparked Everything (2018 Turning Point)

21:05 – Why Cruising Became an Obsession

26:40 – The Dark Side of Cruise Ships (What People Don’t See)

32:15 – 2:30AM… His Grandson Went Missing 😳

38:50 – The Scariest Moments & What Happened Next

45:20 – Inside Themed Cruises (Soul Train, Niche Experiences & More)

52:10 – COVID, Cancelled Cruises & Reinventing Through Podcasting

01:00:05 – Lessons From 40+ Cruises (What You NEED to Know)

01:08:30 – Final Thoughts: Why Cruise Stories Matter

The Joy of Cruising Podcast

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Ep58: Tineke Zoet

In this episode of Deck Tales, we are joined by maritime workplace coach Tineke Zoet, whose unconventional journey—from Dutch Merchant Navy engineer to human factors specialist and coach—offers a powerful lens on life at sea.

Tineke shares how her early struggles with toxic leadership, burnout, and feeling like an outsider shaped her mission to improve psychological safety in the maritime industry. Drawing on both lived experience and accident analysis research, she unpacks the hidden human factors behind incidents at sea—fatigue, poor communication, and unsafe cultures—arguing that technology has advanced faster than the people using it.

The conversation explores the realities of isolation, identity, and cultural tension onboard, as well as the evolving challenges brought by generational shifts and social media. Ultimately, Tineke makes a compelling case: the future of safe and effective shipping depends not just on technical skill, but on human-centered leadership, accountability, and connection.

Tineke Zoet – Maritime Workplace Coach

• Human factors drive most incidents
• 80–90% of maritime accidents trace back to human elements—fatigue, miscommunication, or deeper systemic issues—not just surface-level errors.
• Fatigue and loneliness are chronic issues
• Long rotations, isolation, and high workloads continue to strain mental health at sea.
• Technology ≠ solution
• Automation has reduced crew sizes and increased pressure, often worsening communication and workload instead of easing it.
• Psychological safety is critical—but overlooked
• Crew must feel safe to speak up regardless of rank; without this, risk increases dramatically.
• Leadership culture needs a shift
• “Soft skills” like empathy and communication are still undervalued, yet they’re essential for safety and performance.
• Burnout builds (gradually)
• It often starts mentally (loss of enjoyment, stress) before showing up physically (fatigue, migraines, shutdown).
• Personal accountability is transformative
• Tineke’s turning point came from shifting out of a victim mindset and recognizing patterns in her own behavior.
• Maritime life is misunderstood ashore
• Time off is often seen as “holiday,” masking the intensity and sacrifice of life onboard.
• Generational and cultural clashes are rising
• Differences in values, communication styles, and expectations are creating new tensions at sea.

00:00 – Welcome Aboard: Life at Sea Unfiltered

02:15 – From Netherlands to Ships: Tineke’s Story

06:10 – Why She Chose Life at Sea (And Almost Didn’t)

10:25 – The Reality of Working Onboard Ships

15:40 – Why Seafarers Feel Misunderstood Ashore

21:05 – The Hidden Struggles Between Contracts

27:30 – Toxic Workplaces: My Breaking Point

34:50 – The Turning Point: From Victim to Accountability

41:20 – Why People Clash at Sea (Gen Z vs Old Crew)

48:10 – Cultural Differences Onboard Ships Explained

55:45 – Loneliness & Isolation at Sea (Real Talk)

01:02:30 – Burnout Signs You Should NEVER Ignore

01:09:15 – The Truth About Maritime Mental Health

01:16:40 – 90% of Accidents Are Human Error… Why?

01:23:05 – Fatigue, Mistakes & Near Disasters at Sea

01:29:20 – Bullying, Banter or Harassment? Where’s the Line

01:35:10 – Leadership Failures That Put Crews at Risk

01:41:00 – Why Technology Is Making Things Worse

01:46:30 – What Needs to Change in the Maritime Industry

01:51:30 – Final Thoughts: The Future of Life at Sea

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Ep 57: Captain Samarth Sinha AKA Captain Sams

In this episode, Captain Sams—36-year merchant navy veteran—shares gripping, funny, and deeply insightful stories from life at sea. From navigating war-zone tensions in the Suez Canal to surviving hurricane-force storms with failing steering, Samarth reveals what it really takes to command massive cargo ships under pressure.

We explore the evolution of maritime safety, the hidden dangers of overreliance on technology, and the reality of piracy, shipboard superstition, and isolation. Samarth also reflects on leadership, decision-making, and why sailors are far more skilled and adaptable than they often realise.

• Calm under pressure is everything
• You can’t change what’s already happened—focus only on what’s next.
• Small ambiguities lead to big disasters
• Every major incident starts with something small that gets ignored.
• Technology is a double-edged sword
• It helps—but overreliance without understanding can be dangerous.
• Life at sea builds elite skills
• Leadership, problem-solving, resilience, and adaptability are second nature to sailors.
• The job has changed dramatically
• From “hold the rope and go” to strict safety protocols and paperwork.
• Not all danger is dramatic
• From piracy to ghost stories, the mental and psychological side of sea life is just as real.
• Sailors are more versatile than they think
• Their skillset translates powerfully into almost any industry.

00:00 – The Moment Everything Went Wrong at Sea

02:18 – Meet Captain Sams (36 Years at Sea)

05:42 – How Do You Control a 66,000-Ton Ship?

09:15 – Life at Sea Before GPS (Hard to Believe)

14:03 – “Just Hold the Rope” – Old-School Sailing

18:27 – The Most Dangerous Part of the Job

23:11 – When Technology Fails You at Sea

28:36 – The Day We Lost Steering in a Storm

34:50 – Fighting a Hurricane With No Control

41:22 – How Close We Came to Disaster

47:08 – The #1 Mistake That Causes Accidents

52:44 – Pirates Took My Friend Hostage (Real Story)

59:30 – What Piracy Is Actually Like Today

01:05:12 – The Scariest Thing at Sea (Not Storms)

01:12:08 – Ghost Stories Sailors Don’t Talk About

01:20:14 – Why Sailors Are More Skilled Than You Think

01:27:36 – Final Lessons From 36 Years at Sea

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And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

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Ep56: Nelson Aspen

Today I’m joined by Nelson Aspen—an entertainment reporter turned author and Titanic expert—about his lifelong fascination with maritime history, especially the Titanic. Nelson shares how his career evolved from Hollywood journalism to writing and podcasting, culminating in his successful Titanic Talk podcast and novel Kindred Spirits.

The conversation explores why the Titanic continues to captivate global audiences, blending history, myth, and personal storytelling. Nelson discusses lesser-known perspectives, including LGBTQ+ narratives, survivor trauma, and overlooked historical accounts. He also reflects on modern parallels—like the Titan submersible disaster—highlighting how human hubris and risk-taking remain constant themes.

Alongside Titanic insights, Nelson shares anecdotes from his entertainment career, cruise ship performances, and unique experiences at sea, offering a blend of humour, history, and personal reflection.

Enjoy!

Nelson Aspen - Entertainment Reporter

· The Titanic remains culturally powerful because it blends tragedy, human drama, and myth.

· It has evolved from a disaster into a romanticized global story.

· The same traits—hubris, overconfidence, and profit over safety—link the Titanic disaster to modern incidents like the Titan implosion.

· Many perspectives (e.g., LGBTQ+ passengers, Chinese survivors, class disparities) have historically been ignored.

· There is still significant room for new narratives within well-known events.

· Survivors often faced lifelong trauma, guilt, and hardship—challenging the “happy ending” assumption.

· Even in recovery efforts, first-class passengers were prioritized over third-class victims.

· Advances like VR and AI allow immersive experiences of Titanic without risking lives or disturbing a grave site.

· Nelson turned a childhood obsession into books, speaking gigs, and a successful podcast—showing the value of leaning into niche interests.

· Early ocean liners were about transport, not leisure.

· Modern cruising ranges from luxury heritage experiences to entertainment-focused “floating resorts.”

00:00 – Titanic Secrets & Modern Disasters (Hook)

02:15 – Meet Nelson Aspen: From Hollywood to Titanic Expert

06:00 – Breaking into TV & Celebrity Interviews

10:30 – Why Podcasts Beat Traditional TV

14:45 – Titanic Obsession: How It Became a Career

19:30 – Inside the Titanic Podcast Boom (Top Ranked Show)

24:10 – Cruise Ship Life: Performer vs Guest Experience

29:00 – Luxury Cruises vs Party Ships Explained

34:20 – Writing a Titanic Novel (Hidden LGBTQ+ Stories)

40:10 – The Dark Truth About Titanic Survivors

46:30 – Untold Stories: Class System & Bodies Recovered

52:40 – Shocking Titanic Facts You Didn’t Know

59:00 – The Titan Sub Disaster & Lessons Not Learned

01:05:30 – Cruise Industry Then vs Now (Ocean Liners Explained)

01:12:00 – Wild Cruise Stories & Behind-the-Scenes Moments

01:20:15 – Titanic Legacy: Why We’re Still Obsessed

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

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And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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This episode of Deck Tales features veteran mariner Eric Takakjian, who reflects on nearly 50 years at sea across an extraordinary range of vessels—from Coast Guard rescue boats to pioneering deepwater drill-ships and ocean-going tugboats.

Eric recounts high-risk, real-world experiences including near capsizes, extreme weather navigation, and large-scale towing operations. He shares insights into working on the world’s first dynamically positioned drillship, where crews broke records drilling in unprecedented ocean depths using early positioning technology.

The conversation also explores his Coast Guard years, including rescue missions during the 1980 Cuban exodus, and his progression from entry-level seaman to captain without formal academy training. Throughout, Eric emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning, mentorship, and safety culture in maritime work. 

https://questmarineservices.com/

• Eric rose from apprentice to captain by learning on the job.
• Real-world exposure and mentorship were critical to his development. 

• Worked on the first dynamically positioned drillship, holding position over deep wells without anchors.
• Early tech was massive and experimental, but groundbreaking. 

• Maritime work involves frequent danger: capsizes, fires, extreme weather.
• Strong training in damage control and firefighting is essential. 

• Captains must resist pressure to take unsafe actions.
• Safety decisions directly impact crew lives. 

• Stories reveal camaraderie, humor, and chaos (especially during crew changes).
• Long careers are built not just on skill, but relationships and shared experience. 

• One of Eric’s proudest achievements is training crew who became captains and pilots.
• Passing on knowledge is as important as acquiring it.

00:00 – “We Should’ve Sunk…” (Insane Tugboat Story)

02:05 – Meet the Captain: 50 Years at Sea

05:10 – Every Ship Imaginable (From Coast Guard to Drillships)

08:20 – The World’s First Deepwater Drillship Explained

12:45 – Drilling 1.5 Miles Deep (Breaking World Records)

17:30 – Life Offshore: Crew Chaos & Wild Stories

22:10 – How He Became a Captain (No Academy Route)

27:00 – The Most Dangerous Waters in the World

32:15 – Extreme Rescue Missions (50ft Waves & Survival)

37:40 – The 1980 Cuban Exodus: Real Rescue Operations

43:20 – What It’s Really Like Saving Lives at Sea

49:10 – Tugboats Explained (Power, Precision & Risk)

55:00 – Towing 75,000 Tons (One Mistake = Disaster)

01:00:30 – The #1 Rule: When to Say NO at Sea

01:06:45 – Close Calls, Death & Hard Lessons

01:13:30 – Mentorship & Legacy (Training Future Captains)

01:20:30 – Final Thoughts: The Brutal Truth About Life at Sea

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

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And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Tom Hunt @teghunt

Dan Smith https://www.elephantmedia.co

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Deck Tales follows Moss Hills, a self-taught musician turned cruise director, whose career at sea includes surviving not one—but two—major maritime disasters.

The story centers on the sinking of the Oceanos, where Moss and the entertainment team were thrust into leadership after the ship lost power during a storm and senior officers abandoned their posts. With no communication, training, or guidance, they improvised an evacuation—organizing passengers, loading lifeboats in dangerous conditions, and ultimately coordinating a rescue via radio from the empty bridge. 

Despite the chaos, all passengers survived, thanks largely to the initiative of non-crew personnel like Moss and his colleagues. 

The episode then shifts to Moss’s experience aboard the Achille Lauro, a ship already infamous for a past hijacking. During his time onboard, a fire broke out at sea, leading to another emergency evacuation. Unlike the Oceanos, the crew maintained command and communication, but the situation escalated quickly as the fire spread. 

Moss again found himself in the middle of the crisis—helping passengers evacuate, rescuing individuals from the water, and ultimately escaping as the ship burned and sank in the distance. 

The episode closes with reflection on resilience, the rarity of such disasters, and how these experiences shaped Moss’s approach to safety and leadership in his later career.

• Leadership can emerge from anywhere
• When the Oceanos crew failed to act, untrained entertainers stepped up and effectively ran the evacuation.
• Communication is critical in crisis
• The absence of announcements on the Oceanos caused confusion, while clear communication on the Achille Lauro improved control despite the danger.
• Training vs. instinct
• Moss had no formal emergency training, yet quick thinking and teamwork saved lives—highlighting the importance of adaptability.
• Maritime disasters are rare—but unforgiving
• Both incidents reinforce how unusual such events are, yet how rapidly they escalate when they occur.
• Human behavior under pressure varies widely
• From panic and denial to courage and humor, the episode captures a full spectrum of reactions in life-threatening situations.
• Experience reshapes perspective, not fear
• Despite surviving two disasters, Moss continued his career at sea, later emphasizing safety and preparedness as a cruise director.

00:00 – The Night Everything Changed

04:12 – A Routine Voyage Turns Strange

08:35 – First Signs of Trouble at Sea

12:48 – The Crew Realises Something Is Wrong

17:10 – Panic Spreads Across the Ship

21:22 – A Critical Mayday Call

25:40 – Passengers Rush for Answers

30:05 – The Shocking Truth About the Situation

34:18 – Chaos on Deck as Conditions Worsen

38:50 – The Fight to Keep Everyone Calm

43:12 – A Desperate Plan Is Formed

47:40 – The Ship Begins to Fail

52:05 – A Race Against Time

56:30 – The Turning Point No One Expected

1:01:15 – A Heroic Effort to Save Lives

1:06:40 – The Final Push for Survival

1:12:05 – Rescue Efforts Intensify

1:17:50 – The Moment Hope Returns

1:23:10 – Aftermath: What Really Happened Next

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

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For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Tom Hunt @teghunt

Dan Smith https://www.elephantmedia.co

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jenn is a criminal defence attorney and deep-sea shipwreck explorer and leader of Atlantic Wreck Salvage. She shares how her passion for history—not the ocean—pulled her into the world of deep-sea exploration, where she helps uncover and preserve stories hidden within historic shipwrecks.

Following the recent loss of her partner and founder of the organisation, Joe Mazraani, Jenn has stepped into a leadership role, navigating both the emotional weight and operational challenges of continuing their shared mission. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at life aboard their salvage vessel - DV Tenacious, the technology used to locate wrecks, and the realities of artifact recovery.

The conversation dives into the ethics of salvage vs. preservation, the limitations of museums, and why recovering artifacts from the North Atlantic is often a race against time. Jenn also opens up about the dangers of deep diving, the psychology of explorers, and why, despite not loving the water itself, she’s deeply committed to the stories it holds.

• Shipwrecks are human stories – Every wreck represents lives, histories, and untold narratives—not just debris on the ocean floor.
• Passion over profit – Most deep-sea salvage (in this case) is driven by curiosity and historical preservation, not money.
• Leadership through adversity – Jen’s transition into leadership came suddenly after personal loss, highlighting resilience and purpose.
• Technology meets patience – Tools like side-scan sonar require long, methodical “mowing the lawn” searches with no guarantees.
• Artifacts are at risk – Natural forces and human activity can destroy wrecks, making recovery time-sensitive.
• Museums aren’t always the solution – Many won’t accept salvaged artifacts, creating a gap between discovery and public access.
• Diving is both technical and mental – For some, it’s meditation; for others (like Jen), it’s a means to an end.
• Risk is ever-present – Deep dives involve complex systems like rebreathers and require rigorous safety protocols.

https://dvtenacious.com/

00:00 – Intro: Lawyer Turned Deep-Sea Shipwreck Explorer

03:45 – The Real Reason She Got Into Shipwrecks (It’s Not the Ocean)

08:20 – Discovering Lost Ships Through History & DNA Research

13:10 – The Story Behind Atlantic Wreck Salvage

17:45 – Losing Joe & Stepping Into Leadership

23:30 – Carrying On a Deep-Sea Explorer’s Legacy

28:10 – Inside a 20-Person Shipwreck Exploration Team

32:40 – How They Actually Find Shipwrecks (Sonar Explained)

38:15 – “Mowing the Ocean” for 16 Hours Straight

43:50 – What They’ve Found Underwater (Artifacts & Surprises)

49:30 – Why Museums REFUSE Shipwreck Artifacts

55:10 – Should We Leave Shipwrecks Alone or Recover Them?

01:00:40 – Life on a Deep-Sea Expedition (Day in the Life)

01:07:20 – Diving the Andrea Doria: The ‘Disneyland’ of Wrecks

01:14:10 – The Dangers of Deep Diving (Gear, Risk & Survival)

01:21:30 – Why She’s Still Afraid of the Ocean (But Keeps Diving)

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

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Facebook:

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TikTok:

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For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Tom Hunt @teghunt

Dan Smith https://www.elephantmedia.co

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep52: Rod Scher

In this episode of Deck Tales, we are joined by author and historian Rod Scher to explore why shipwreck stories still grip us centuries later, to uncover what really causes them to go down—and why it’s almost never just “bad luck.”

From the deadly wreck of the SS Valencia to the near-total loss of the Pacific, Rod breaks down how small decisions, human pride, and overlooked warning signs can spiral into full-blown disaster.

The conversation also dives into the human side of these tragedies—stories of survival, loss, and split-second decisions that changed everything. Along the way, Rod shares how he turns historical wrecks into gripping narratives, why context matters just as much as the event itself, and how one sailor managed to circle the globe with no instruments at all.

This episode is a deep dive into the thin line between control and chaos at sea—and why, no matter how prepared you are, the ocean always has the final say.

Key Takeaways

• Most maritime disasters aren’t “bad luck” — they’re the result of compounding human decisions
• Trusting (or mistrusting) instruments has made or broken countless voyages
• Shipwrecks reveal as much about their era’s technology and culture as they do about the sea
• Preparation matters, but humility matters more
• The ocean isn’t evil — it’s just indifferent

Chapters:

00:00 – This Should NEVER Have Happened at Sea…

01:30 – The Guy Who Studies Shipwrecks for a Living

04:30 – He Turned Disaster Into a Career

07:00 – Why Shipwrecks Always Follow the Same Pattern

10:30 – 2,000 Ships Lost Here… Why?!

14:00 – Why “Overnight Success” Is a Lie

18:30 – He Sailed Around the World With NOTHING

22:30 – No GPS. No Compass. No Chance?

27:00 – How Do You Navigate… With Zero Instruments?

32:00 – He Recruited Crew With THIS Crazy Offer

38:00 – The Reality of Life at Sea (It’s Brutal)

45:00 – The Shipwreck That Should Have Been Avoided

55:00 – One Decision Killed Everyone On Board

01:05:00 – The Moment He Ignored the Warning Signs

01:18:00 – The Ocean Doesn’t Care If You’re Ready

01:25:00 – The Biggest Lesson From Every Shipwreck

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

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And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Tom Hunt @teghunt

Dan Smith https://www.elephantmedia.co

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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In this anonymous interview, “Sarah,” a cruise ship activity host, reveals the unfiltered reality of life working at sea. From exhausting 7-day workweeks and ship politics to shocking behind-the-scenes incidents, she exposes what passengers never see. The conversation dives into crew hierarchy, mental and physical burnout, safety scares, and uncomfortable truths about onboard culture — all while balancing the unique opportunity to travel the world.

• No days off reality: Crew can work 7 days a week for months, often 10–14 hours daily. 
• Sarah Transcript
• Hierarchy & inequality: Treatment varies based on role, nationality, and even accent. 
• Sarah Transcript
• Emotional & physical burnout: Constant “high energy” expectations with little recovery time. 
• Sarah Transcript
• Serious incidents happen: Includes medical emergencies, rescues at sea, and onboard conflicts. 
• Sarah Transcript
• Blurred professional boundaries: Living and working together creates uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe situations. 
• Sarah Transcript
• Hidden crew culture: Includes unofficial economies, internal politics, and social dynamics passengers never see. 
• Sarah Transcript
• Despite it all… Travel opportunities and unique experiences keep many crew coming back.

00:00 – The Truth About Cruise Life

Hook + anonymous intro, setting expectations

01:45 – Why She Went to Sea

From West End to cruise ships

04:05 – 7 Days a Week, No Breaks

The brutal reality of crew schedules

08:45 – Ship Hierarchy & Favouritism

Inequality, accents, and who gets ahead

13:20 – What the Job REALLY Involves

Hosting, security, chaos & constant energy

20:10 – Scariest Moments at Sea

Medical emergency & passenger fatality

25:30 – Life Below Deck

Living conditions, crew culture & burnout

31:10 – Embarrassing & Awkward Moments

Being sick, public call-outs & “bananas”

36:50 – The Hidden Economy Onboard

Sex work, power dynamics & side hustles

44:10 – Harassment & Feeling Unsafe

Blurred boundaries, complaints & investigations

57:30 – The Dark Side of Guests

Complaints, fights, drugs & final thoughts

#cruiselife #shiplife #travel #entertainer

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Ep50: Ted Lund

In this episode of Deck Tales, Captain Sammy Catling sits down with veteran captain, journalist, and whale-watching guide Ted Lund, broadcasting from Juneau, Alaska at the height of whale season. What begins as a conversation about humpback whales quickly expands into a wide-ranging, eye-opening discussion on marine conservation, cruise ship impacts, whale behavior, and life lived almost entirely at sea.

Ted shares firsthand stories—from whales struck by ships and learned orca “revenge” behavior, to bubble-net feeding spectacles, cruise ship pollution, and near-death experiences offshore. Blending hard science, lived experience, and dark humour, this episode challenges how we think about tourism, progress, and our responsibility to the ocean.

• Whales learn and teach behavior: Orca attacks on boats may be a learned, generational response to vessel strikes killing pod matriarchs.
• Cruise ships have hidden costs: From whale fatalities to coral damage, sediment plumes, invasive species, and infrastructure strain, the impacts go far beyond tourism dollars.
• Whale watching is booming—maybe too much: Alaska’s whale populations have rebounded, but overcrowding is pushing regulators toward caps and permits.
• The ocean remembers everything: Plastics, pharmaceuticals, and wastewater don’t disappear—they bioaccumulate and disrupt entire ecosystems.
• Experience matters: Ted’s unique mix of journalism and seamanship offers a rare, unfiltered look at how environmental decisions play out on the water.

#whalewatching #flyfishing #whaling #orca

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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Ep49:Orel Federman

In this episode of Deck Tales, we sit down with the founder of Nautical Miles Club, a former seafarer turned entrepreneur on a mission to make life at sea more humane, connected, and appreciated. Sparked by the harsh realities seafarers faced during COVID—being stranded on ships, cut off from families, and largely invisible—the conversation explores how Nautical Miles evolved from a simple global discount app into a holistic platform connecting seafarers, families, shipping companies, ports, and brands.

Beyond tech, the episode dives into life at sea, security, piracy, loyalty, and why convenience and recognition matter more than money for retention in maritime careers. It’s a candid, wide-ranging discussion about dignity, community, and finally putting seafarers front and center.

• Seafarers are invisible—but essential: COVID exposed how overlooked maritime workers are, despite keeping global trade moving.
• Nautical Miles Club goes beyond discounts: It connects employers, ports, families, and brands to seafarers in one ecosystem.
• Convenience beats cash: Easy transport, trusted venues, and time-saving tools matter more than small savings.
• Retention is about experience, not salary: Seeing the world is a key reason people go to sea—remove that, and people leave.
• Trust is built by minimizing data: The platform intentionally avoids collecting personal data unless absolutely necessary.
• Security at sea is outdated: Maritime security standards haven’t kept pace with modern threats or realities.
• Life at sea reshapes perspective: It strips away prejudice and ego, replacing them with teamwork and shared survival.

https://www.nm-club.com/

#navy #shipinvestor #security #discounts

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And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

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Ep48: Martin Barmby AKA Barney

In this episode of Deck Tales, I talk to Barney — a former Royal Navy submariner with 22 years of service — to explore life beneath the waves and the mindset forged by submarines. From growing up immersed in military history to serving on diesel-electric and nuclear boats, Barney shares candid, often hilarious, and deeply human stories about leadership, resilience, and responsibility.

The conversation dives into everything from nicknames and Navy culture to the brutal realities of submarine life: limited showers, relentless watchkeeping, and the unbreakable bond between crewmates. Now in civilian life working at a power station, Barney reflects on how submarine values — accountability, teamwork, and never walking past a problem — still shape how he lives and works today.

⚓ Key Takeaways

Submarine service builds extreme accountability — mistakes aren’t personal, they’re fatal.

Leadership isn’t rank, it’s responsibility — especially when lives depend on you.

Nicknames, banter, and shared hardship create family, not just colleagues.

You can take the submariner out of the Navy, but not the Navy out of the submariner.

Resilience comes from service, purpose, and helping others — even after uniform life ends.

#royalnavy #submarine #electricianlife #submariner

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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Ep47: Belencia Wallace - Full Time Cruise Content Creator

In this episode of Deck Tales, Sammy Catling chats with Belencia — better known as Ladybug Travel — a full-time content creator who has spent the past eight months living entirely on cruise ships. Broadcasting live from various corners of a Royal Caribbean ship (including a chapel for peace and quiet), Belencia shares what it’s really like to be a “constant cruiser,” hopping between nearly 30 ships while building a social media career at sea.

From managing Wi-Fi, mail, and logistics to navigating ports independently, saving money through loyalty status, and balancing nonstop travel with content creation, Valencia offers a behind-the-scenes look at a lifestyle that sounds glamorous—but requires serious planning and stamina. Along the way, she reflects on favorite destinations, least-favorite ports, cultural lessons learned abroad, and how going all-in on herself has already paid off with viral growth and major media features.

Key Takeaways

Living full-time on cruise ships is possible—but only with extreme organization and planning

Cruise loyalty status can dramatically reduce daily living costs (Wi-Fi, laundry, drinks)

Being a digital nomad doesn’t mean slowing down—burnout is real, even in paradise

Independent travel in port offers deeper cultural experiences and major cost savings

Betting on yourself can pay off, but momentum brings new challenges and overwhelm

Cruise ships can be a powerful platform for storytelling, connection, and global reach

00:00 – She Lives on Cruise Ships

How Belencia ended up living full-time at sea

06:12 – How This Lifestyle Even Started

The moment cruising turned into a life choice

13:45 – What Full-Time Cruise Life Is Really Like

Daily routines, cabins, food, and onboard reality

20:58 – How She Affords Living at Sea

Costs, budgeting, and whether this is cheaper than rent

28:31 – The Biggest Myths About Cruise Life

What people get completely wrong about living on ships

35:44 – The Hardest Parts of Living on Cruise Ships

Loneliness, logistics, and things no one talks about

42:57 – Friendships, Dating & Social Life at Sea

What relationships look like when you never stay still

50:03 – Health, Safety & Long-Term Sustainability

Burnout, routines, and how long this lifestyle can last

56:41 – Is This Lifestyle Actually Worth It?

Trade-offs, regrets, and unexpected rewards

01:03:28 – Advice for Anyone Who Wants to Do This

What to know before trying full-time cruising

01:08:20 – Final Thoughts & What’s Next

Reflections on freedom, travel, and what comes after

To see clips of all our guests you can follow us on:

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For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep46: Richard Jones - Naval Engineer and Author

Today I'm speaking with Richard Jones — Royal Navy weapons engineer by day and one of Britain’s most prolific shipwreck and disaster historians by night. Richard shares how a lifelong fascination with maritime disasters turned into nearly three decades of research, 27+ published books, and multiple memorial campaigns honouring forgotten tragedies.

The conversation dives into shipwrecks, air disasters, historical myths, and the emotional weight of researching real loss. Richard explains why he focuses on overlooked stories, how social media transformed historical research, and why he believes history belongs to everyone — not locked away in private archives. From Costa Concordia to lost wartime ships, this episode explores the thin line between human error, hubris, and remembrance.

Key Takeaways

History isn’t owned — it’s shared. Richard’s mission is to preserve forgotten disasters before their stories disappear forever.

Research is part detective work. Separating myth from fact often takes years of interviews, archives, and firsthand accounts.

Modern tech changed everything. Social media now connects historians directly with survivors, families, and rare evidence.

Memorials matter. For families, plaques and books can provide long-overdue closure and public recognition.

Human error repeats itself. From Titanic to Titan, lessons at sea are often ignored — with tragic results.

Respect over sensationalism. Some truths don’t need to be published to honor the people involved.

https://shipwreckdata.wixsite.com/richard-m-jones

https://bsky.app/profile/wreckmasterjay.bsky.social

https://disasters-shipwrecks.blogspot.com

⏱️ YouTube Chapters (01:08:27)

00:00 – Welcome Aboard Deck Tales

Setting the scene: life at sea, disasters, and forgotten stories

04:12 – From Navy Engineer to Shipwreck Historian

How Richard Jones balances classified work with disaster research

09:35 – Why Most Tragedies Are Forgotten

Media bias, death tolls, and how history chooses what survives

15:48 – Shipwreck Myths vs Reality

Separating fact from fiction in maritime disasters

21:32 – The Human Cost of Disaster Research

The unseen emotional toll of studying real loss

28:10 – When Research Brings Families Closure

Memorials, survivors, and why remembrance matters

35:04 – Titanic, Titan & Repeating Mistakes

Why maritime disasters keep happening — again and again

41:22 – The Survivors Who Defied the Odds

Rafts, wartime sinkings, and impossible survival stories

48:05 – The Worst Captains in History

Ego, negligence, and decisions that doomed thousands

54:18 – The Biggest Shipwreck Conspiracies Debunked

The Titanic switch theory and other myths destroyed

01:01:10 – Beyond Titanic: Why These Stories Matter

Legacy, memory, and preserving history before it’s lost

#piratelegend #seadogs #piracy #shipstories

To see clips of all our guests you can follow us on:

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For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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Ep45: Zamira Chevrestt - Volunteer Co-ordinator for In The Same Boat

Today I'm joined by Zamira, a volunteer coordinator and sustainability ambassador for the Norwegian environmental NGO In The Same Boat. Zamira shares what it’s really like cleaning marine litter along some of the most remote and unforgiving coastlines in the Arctic and Northern Europe — from freezing North Sea crossings to hauling tons of abandoned fishing gear off rocky beaches.

The conversation dives into how the NGO operates its fleet of sailboats, trains volunteers with little to no sailing experience, and balances hands-on cleanup with education, data collection, and systemic change. Zamira also opens up about the emotional highs and lows of life at sea, burnout in the NGO world, and why staying hopeful — and human — is essential when tackling an overwhelming global problem.

🌊 Key Takeaways

The Arctic is heavily polluted — even the most remote coastlines are clogged with marine litter, especially from fishing industries.

Cleaning is only part of the solution — education, data tracking, and collaboration with industries and governments are critical for long-term impact.

Volunteers don’t need sailing experience — just resilience, teamwork, and a willingness to get uncomfortable.

Life at sea is intense — physically demanding, emotionally charged, and deeply bonding.

Burnout is real in environmental work — stepping back, finding joy, and focusing on small wins keeps people going.

Individual actions still matter — change spreads person to person, habit to habit.

📌 Chapters (01:07:57)

01:38 – Meet Zamira & “In The Same Boat”

Cleaning the Arctic, sailing north, and teaching kids why the ocean isn’t a bin

04:10 – Volunteering at Sea: Who Can Join & What It’s Really Like

No sailing experience, extreme conditions, and physical demands

06:02 – Crossing the North Sea & Surviving Rough Waters

Seasickness, storms, fear, dolphins, and why sailors keep coming back

09:50 – How an Arctic Cleanup NGO Actually Works

Funding struggles, boats, tech, volunteers, and scaling impact

12:40 – First Cleanup Shock: “I’d Never Seen This Much Trash”

The myth of “clean” Norway and what shows up on remote beaches

16:25 – A Day in the Life of a Marine Cleanup Crew

12-hour days, midnight sun cleanups, weather chaos, and logistics

20:35 – One Million+ KG of Trash & Tracking the Data

GPS mapping, fishing nets, hotspots, and working with industry

28:15 – Burnout, Boat Life & Being ‘In the Same Boat’

Mental health, friendships, drama, romance, and volunteer reality

35:35 – Plastic, Wildlife & The Stats That Hurt

Seabirds, whales, microplastics, and why this is urgent

41:00 – Schools, Hope & Why the Next Generation Matters

Teaching kids, community impact, staying hopeful, and what you can do

52:30 – Boat Life Fun: Initiations, Food Fails & Reality TV Energy

Ghost pepper shots, porridge crimes, and why this should be a show

01:01:30 – Final Reflections: Why This Work Is Worth It

Small wins, real change, and not giving up on the ocean

To see clips of all our guests you can follow us on:

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For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Zamira Chevrestt

https://www.inthesameboat.eco

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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Ep44: Anthony Cummins AKA Captain Tonz

Today I'm in talks with Captain Tonz — a real-life pirate with over 65 years at sea — to dismantle everything we think we know about piracy. From surviving rogue waves as a teenager to smuggling camels, outwitting the Royal Navy, and acting as a guardian of the ocean, Captain Tonz shares a life shaped by instinct, equality, and a deep spiritual connection to the sea. This isn’t a tale of Hollywood piracy — it’s a raw, philosophical journey through freedom, responsibility, and what it truly means to “boldly go.”

Key Takeaways

Piracy isn’t what pop culture sells us: historically, pirates were explorers, innovators, and early champions of equality.

Connection beats control: Captain Tonz credits survival and success at sea to listening, not conquering.

The pirate code was radically progressive: equality, shared power, and respect were core principles.

Modern threats to the ocean are invisible: pollution, automation, and disconnection pose greater danger than storms.

Anyone can be a pirate — if they can connect, adapt, and take responsibility.

Chapters

00:00:00 — A Real Pirate Joins the Podcast

Meet Captain Tonz and the myth vs reality of piracy

00:04:42 — “Everything You Know About Pirates Is Wrong”

The true meaning of piracy and where the word comes from

00:09:05 — Running Away to Sea at 14

From troubled childhood to life aboard ships

00:14:18 — The Wave That Changed Everything

Surviving a rogue wave and finding purpose

00:19:52 — Becoming a Pirate by Accident

A master pirate, the Baltic Sea, and a life-altering choice

00:24:55 — Smuggling, Survival & Sea Instincts

Why piracy is about planning, not chaos

00:30:08 — Camels, Cargo & Breaking Records

The strangest things ever smuggled at sea

00:35:12 — Escaping the Royal Navy

Chains, hacksaw blades, and a Gibraltar breakout

00:40:18 — Pirate Code: Radical Equality at Sea

Why pirates were centuries ahead of their time

00:45:55 — Prison Cells & Close Calls

From East Germany to unexpected hospitality

00:51:02 — UFOs, Legends & Sea Mysteries

What sailors see that landlubbers never will

00:56:10 — Are Pirates the Guardians of the Ocean?

Pollution, responsibility, and protecting the sea

01:01:48 — Somali Pirates & The Truth Behind the Headlines

What really created modern piracy

01:08:32 — Stopping Environmental Crimes at Sea

When pirates enforced justice no one else would

01:14:55 — Who Can Be a Pirate?

Mental health, connection, and fearlessness

01:21:30 — Johnny Depp, Stephen Fry & Dream Crews

Casting pirates and Hollywood truth

01:28:45 — Pirates, AI & the Future of Navigation

Why modern sailors are losing vital skills

01:34:20 — Final Message from the Sea

A warning, a responsibility, and a call to act

https://captaintonz.com

https://www.originalpiratematerial.co.uk/

#piratelegend #seadogs #piracy #shipstories

To see clips of all our guests you can follow us on:

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https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

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And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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Ep43: Sara Bisset - Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) operator

In this episode of Deck Tales, I'm chatting with Sara Bisset, a Scotland-based seafarer who’s spent the last decade working offshore as a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) operator—basically, someone paid to protect whales and dolphins from noisy marine construction and exploration work. Sara breaks down how mitigation works during operations like seismic surveys, wind farm piling, and even disposal of unexploded WWII ordnance, and explains what happens when marine life enters an exclusion zone (spoiler: everything can stop, and it can cost a fortune).

Beyond the job, Sara shares the reality of freelance life at sea—project-to-project contracts, chasing agencies, and the strange feeling of having long stretches of freedom while everyone else works 9–5. She also dives into memorable wildlife encounters, like spotting an elusive beaked whale species, and living through near-constant humpback sightings off Gabon… right after forgetting her camera charger.

Key takeaways

What MMOs & PAM operators actually do: They visually and acoustically monitor for marine mammals during noisy offshore operations and can trigger delays/shutdowns depending on rules and location.

Big misconception: It’s not “watching whales for fun”—it’s compliance, mitigation, and high-stakes decision-making tied to permits, law, and massive costs.

The lifestyle is ultra-flexible… and oddly lonely: Freelancing means feast-or-famine contracts, lots of admin between jobs, and time off that doesn’t always sync with friends’ lives.

Best moments at sea are unforgettable: Rare beaked whale encounters and endless humpback sightings show why people get “itchy feet” to return offshore.

The industry is shifting: More wind farm work is replacing older oil & gas reliance, and remote monitoring tech (and AI) is slowly reshaping the job.

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

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Ep42: Rich Napolitano - Shipwrecks & Seadogs Podcast Host

In this episode of Deck Tales, we welcome maritime storyteller and podcaster Richard, creator of Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs.

From Florida’s stormy skies to centuries-old shipwrecks, Richard shares how a lifelong love of history evolved into a full-time podcast dedicated to maritime disasters, sea legends, and the people caught in between.

The conversation dives deep into what makes great nautical storytelling: meticulous research, narrative immersion, and respect for historical accuracy. Richard unpacks some of his most gripping stories — including the horrific mutiny and massacre following the wreck of the Batavia, and the rise and disappearance of legendary pirate Henry Every. Along the way, we explore the realities of piracy, the evolution of maritime law, and how history, music, and routine help sustain a creative life at sea.

Key Takeaways

Maritime history is about people, not just shipwrecks — power, greed, survival, and human choices drive every story.

Accuracy comes first: multiple primary sources, official reports, and firsthand accounts are essential to responsible storytelling.

The Batavia stands out as one of history’s most disturbing shipwreck stories, blending mutiny, ideology, and mass murder.

Henry Every’s raid helped bring the Golden Age of Piracy to an end and reshaped global attitudes toward pirates.

Creative sustainability matters — routine, music, and structure help avoid burnout when producing long-form narrative content.

You don’t need to be a professional sailor to tell sea stories — curiosity and rigor go a long way.

https://www.shipwrecksandseadogs.com

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

#seadogs #shipwrecks #podcastersunite #shipstories

To see clips of all our guests you can follow us on:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/decktalesofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/decktalespodcast.

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@decktales

For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Lucy Southernon @CruisingAsCrew

Tom Hunt @teghunt

Dan Smith https://www.elephantmedia.co

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep41: Lucy Southerton - Former Crew, Now Cruise Content Creator

In this episode, we sit down with Lucy, a former cruise ship crew member turned cruise vlogger, who spent nearly a decade working across multiple cruise lines—from spa therapist to retail and brand ambassador—before transitioning to life on land and content creation at sea. Lucy shares the realities of ship life behind the scenes, the culture shock of leaving a highly structured environment, and how her insider perspective now shapes her honest cruise reviews. From awkward guest encounters and strict ship rules to pandemic chaos, celebrity sightings, and viral cruise controversies, this episode offers an unfiltered look at the highs, lows, and lessons of life at sea.

Key Takeaways

Life on cruise ships is intense, structured, and rewarding—but not sustainable forever for everyone.

Leaving ship life can feel like culture shock, similar to leaving other highly regimented careers.

Cruise lines vary hugely in culture, freedom, and attitudes toward social media.

Behind-the-scenes crew experiences are often far tougher than what passengers see.

Honest cruise content matters—even when companies don’t like the feedback.

You can turn niche, insider experience into a successful and fulfilling second career.

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

To see clips of all our guests you can follow us on:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/decktalesofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/decktalespodcast.

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@decktales

For all links you can head to the official website:

https://www.decktales.co.uk

If you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at:

https://ko-fi.com/decktales

And if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244

Special Thanks To:

Lucy Southernon  @CruisingAsCrew 

Tom Hunt  @teghunt 

Dan Smith https://www.elephantmedia.co

Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#40 We round out the end of season 2 with another star from the world of cruise content creation, Mr Gary Bembridge.

At the time of recording Gary has been on 124 cruises around the globe, and he has documented pretty much all of them.

His mission is to help make it easier for others to book their cruises, by shining an impartial light on what the different lines offer, and objectively weighing up all the pros and cons.

I learned all about his upbringing, his early career, how it set him up to succeed, and more!

Hopefully you're enjoying DeckTales so far. If so, please do smash that like button, share your favourite episodes with your friends, and subscribe of course!

I'm gonna take a break from posting for a while as I need to record and edit with a batch of new guests for the next series, and if you or someone you know would like to be a guest on the show, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

I hope it's nothing but smooth sailing for you all out there.

Ciao for now

Sam -x-

Recorded 19th June 2025

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My guest today is the wonderful Emma La Teace, or as she is perhaps better known across social media, Emma Cruises.

She started her own ship vlogging and blogging journey nearly a decade ago, and a post of hers regarding the charity Mercy Ships caught my attention, so I got in touch to learn more.

Alongside raising money for them with the help of a certain Captain Hudson, she has also been busy producing children's books, and recently just launched and co founded the company 'The Cruise Globe'

The Cruise Globe

It was great to be able to hear her story and how she got into cruising, and I'm so thankful not only for the wonderful work she has been doing, but for also agreeing to be a guest on the show.

To see all of the work she has been doing over the years, she can be found here:

- Emma Cruises

Enjoy!

Recorded 21st April 2025

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A little something different today, as my guest Peter Knego is the first person on DeckTales who has NOT worked on ships.

His enthusiasm for them however, has basically meant he's spent more time on ships over the years than some of my previous guests.

Peter fell in love with the old ocean liners when he was young, and his obsession for them only grew over time.

He was blogging about them before the word was invented, then he progressed into vlogging, where he started a YouTube channel which can be found at Peter Knego's MidShipCinema - YouTube, and a website for people who love old ships as much as he does, where the fixings and furnishings he salvaged from Indian scrapyards are up for sale.

https://www.midshipcentury.com

Enjoy!

Recorded 7th April 2025

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Steve and I worked on a Carnival ship together back in the day, albeit different departments.

He wished to remain anonymous for his own reasons, and so used a pseudonym and an on screen avatar for the duration of the call.

This is a choice afforded to any guest who comes on the podcast, and if there are people still in the industry who would like to share some stories, then I strongly recommend you copy Steve's example.

We caught up with one another over the things we remembered, the things we'd forgotten, and the things better left forgotten.

Steve initially worked in the teens club onboard as a host, before he transitioned into a completely different role, where he drilled company policy into new and returning crew, by becoming a corporate trainer.

Have a listen to hear some of his highs and lows from a period spanning about three years in total.

Enjoy!

Recorded 28th February 2025

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Allegra and I worked on the same ship over 15 years ago, and not having seen or spoken with her since like so many of my former colleagues, it was amazing to see and speak with her after so much time.

She worked as a solo singer and musician, onboard a ship that many crew members have dubbed as being one of the rowdiest contracts on the seven seas. The Carnival Paradise which at that time ran a 3 day booze cruise from Long Beach C.A to Catalina, and Ensenada, Mexico.

She informed me that was her one and only ship contract, how she found herself on board in the first place, why she never did another, what she's up to now and loads more.

You can support her incredible talent at some of the following links.

Enjoy!

HOME | Allegra DuChaine

HOME | My Site

Allegra DuChaine - YouTube

Allegra DuChaine (@allegraduchaine) • Instagram photos and videos

Allegra Duchaine | Spotify

Recorded 25th February 2025

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Andy was such a wonderful guest from start to finish, and was referred to me by previous guest on the show Mark Tiffin.

He was on ships for around 8 years, and most of that time he worked as an entertainment host, but he transitioned into a cruise director for a brief spell, before eventually becoming a fly on guest performer.

He is a talented vocalist and pianist, and consistently shoved two thousand dollars worth of entertainment down guests throats (his words not mine) in the form of an Elton John tribute act.

During this episode Andy discussed his own personal highs and lows, how he made it though covid times being stuck onboard, how some of the crew really struggled with their mental health during that time, the various charter cruises he worked on, and loads more.

Enjoy!

Recorded 15th February 2025

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Sean reached out to me and offered himself up as a guest on the show, and as he pitched himself as having potentially one of the best jobs onboard ever, it's fair to say he piqued my interest.

He worked for around 3 years on cruise ships within the broadcasting department, and as he didn't really have to do all that much work he was free to go on a fair amount of excursions which he shared with me in plenty of detail.

He gave me insights into some of the particulars of his job, how a guest narrowly avoided dying on an excursion, what the captain discreetly needed him for and much more.

Enjoy!

Recorded 15th February 2025

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EP 33: Loki was someone I personally reached out to and pestered to be on the show for some time. When I finally convinced him to be a guest after a couple months of persistence, I caught up with him while he was in the Caribbean awaiting his next cruise ship to arrive.

He is a man of many talents, primarily going from ship to ship as a fly on guest entertainer, goes by either Loki or Manuel Martinez, and his on stage persona for at least one of those pseudonyms hails from Cuba, (I'll let you figure out which one).

We spoke about all things magic, cultural stereotypes, and a brief history of time...kind of.

He has also established the magic of ministry agency. Which helps book talent on different types of gigs all around the world.

Enjoy!

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Snejina worked with me on my very first contract back in 2006, and she herself did about 8 years in the industry, completing her first year as a cabin steward, and the rest she worked within the various shops onboard.

I had so much fun reminiscing with Snejina, and she had some really unique, interesting insights and stories from her time spent at sea over the years.

She told me how she coped her whole career with severe sea sickness, a storm so bad she was walking on the walls, what horrors she uncovered in peoples cabins, the kinds of stupid questions she got from passengers and more.

Enjoy!

Recorded 1st November 2024

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Today I spoke with a former colleague who wished to remain anonymous, and so said just to refer to him as Tommy.

All I can say is that we worked together on a Carnival Booze cruise back in 2010, and he did 10 months working as a guest services officer which was his one and only contract.

Tommy told me about the training he received prior to going onboard, crazy types of guests he encountered during that contract, (which is ultimately why it was the only one he did), heart attack at sea, drug smugglers onboard, being detained at the air for being a suspected smuggler himself, and much more.

Was great to catch up with another former shipmate after so many years.

Enjoy!

Recorded January 31st

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EP 30: In my attempts to connect with the broader podcasting network of creatives out there, I signed up to a conference call on meetup.com with a bunch of people all with their own shows.

Among them, was none other than Mr Ant McGinley, a gentlemen who was good enough to come on the show, and share his own ship journey from over the years.

He did just under 3 years with P&O, and a couple stints with Hurtigruten and Voyager.

Ant told me the hilarious story of how he first got himself onboard, what tactics he employed to mentally overcome belligerent and foolish guests, he mentioned an occasion involving a teddy bear stuffed full of drugs and loads more.

He has his own show called Wrestling with the Champ which can be found here Home https://wrestlingwiththechamp.com.

Plus he is half the brains behind Podomedy, the podcast comedy network. Helping funny podcasters save time and money, which can be found here Podcast Comedy Network - Funny Podcasts

Enjoy!

Recorded 23rd January 2025

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This is not a typical episode of DeckTales with a guest sharing their stories, as I thought I would take the time to let you know a bit about myself, where I essentially got the inspiration for the show, what makes it different from other ship related podcasts, and what I hope to achieve moving forwards with it.

If you have enjoyed the show so far then please do drop up a 5 star rating on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This really helps boost visibility on the different platforms, and makes it easier to reach new listeners.

Fancy checking out my first book?

Its available as a paperback and audiobook on Amazon

Seems Like Smooth Sailing: Amazon.co.uk: Catling, Sam: 9781912964246: Books

Thanks for all the support so far xo

Sam

https://eddy.headliner.app/api/v1/transcript/eddy/project/cm83byeat00r501nyimvnjj0s/format/vtt

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EP 29: Fergus and I worked together well over a decade ago for a brief period of time.

He came aboard a ship I was working on as a videographer, and we became fast friends as Fergus is definitely good people.

Instantly likeable, effortlessly cool, in many ways he reminds me of myself which is probably why we got on so well.

Fergus reminded me of the time we and a few others formed a virile boyband, told me how he met the woman who brought him into the world whilst on an excursion, and revealed some of the questionable practices he was taught when disposing of certain photo lab chemicals.

Enjoy!

Recorded 2nd November 2024

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EP 28: I connected with Daniel over social media, and we chatted about his journey working on ships over the past 17 years.

He's held quite a few various positions within the entertainment department, some of which he enjoyed more than others.

There's been quite a lot of adventures during his time at sea, and it was interesting to hear how he's had to deal with a plethora of medical injuries, upstart fly-on divas, ridiculous guests and much more.

Daniel was good to give me an insight into how ships are starting to get better internet onboard, and our chat took place just after he'd finished working for one cruise line, and was in the process of applying for the next.

Enjoy!

Recorded 13th January 2025

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EP 27: I worked with Tommy on my first ever cruise ship contract back in 2006, and I never told him this, but back then I used to think he was the coolest guy on board.

He had those husky Brian Adams type vocals that melted knee caps everywhere he went, and to be fair to him he's still got it this day, as at one point during our recording he treated me to a little performance of a song he 'wrote' a long time ago.

In this episode you can expect to hear the pair of us reminiscing about the good old days, how Tommy's own chaotic life eventually got him onboard ships, what events at sea triggered his philanthropic pursuits, how he inadvertently ripped off someone of notoriety's work, and much more.

Enjoy!

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EP 26: Mark is one of those people I met back in the day only a couple of times, but I found him buried among my Facebook friends with mutual acquaintances throughout the cruise ship industry, and it was only after a short amount of time speaking with him, that all the memories I had of his comedy came flooding back to me.

Mark is one of the most pleasant, affable, well mannered people I've had the pleasure of speaking to on DeckTales, and his act isn't much of an act, because he is like genuinely like that in real life.

I got to hear all about how he started his journey as a comic, when he made the transition to cruise director, and how they basically made him Carnival's first ever fleet supervisor.

He's been with the company over a lengthy period of time, so he's seen them go through a lot of changes over the years, and it was a lot of fun finding out all about it.

Enjoy!

Recorded 29th October 2024

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Ep 25: I connected with Steff through social media, whilst she was stranded ashore in her home country of the Dominican Republic, sandwiched between her first ever and second cruise ship contracts.

She is the first person from the galley I've had the pleasure of speaking to on DeckTales, and she filled me in on all things such as how she managed to get herself onboard, how her first experience went, what she made of ship dating life, how she coped with a wardrobe malfunction mid service and much more.

Enjoy!

Recorded 19th October 2024

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EP 24: Mark and I connected over social media, and after a bit of back and forth he agreed to be a guest on the show.

As he was the first person I've interviewed from the bridge, it was great to get an insight into what life as an officer is all about, and we discussed many things from his early days at Warsash Maritime academy, his long stint working on cargo ships, and how he eventually transitioned into cruises.

It was an informative and fun chat with Mark, and I'm happy that he's now working for a cruises line that he's more than satisfied with...as he told me his previous employer was not exactly treating him fairly.

Enjoy!

Recorded 31st October 2024

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Ep23: Shane Jacobik

Shane used to work for Carnival primarily as a dancer in the show team, and we were colleagues for a spell around 15 years ago, on a ship known as the Paradise.

It was great to hear about his experiences from within the show team, as he went from ship to ship and witnessed various changes throughout his department over the years.

Shane shared a couple of salacious stories with me, but was senisble enough not to overshare at the risk of damaging my sensitive little ears. (They are actually really small)

He helped me dispell an urban myth, showed me what an Axolotl is, and told me all about what he’s up to these days over in Vegas.

 Enjoy! 

#behindthescenes #podcastclipsviral #decktales #BelowDeck #showteam #singer #legends #dancer #performer #newseason #lasvegas

Recorded 20th October 2024

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EP 22: Ben has had an interesting mix of work when it comes to careers at sea, and at one point he was working behind the scenes back on land, producing some of the gameshows and quizzes I would later deliver onboard.

I once met Ben many moons ago, when I came to re-audition for the company I started my ship journey with, so I reached out to him over Facebook to get him on the show.

It was in many ways a very informative chat, as Ben is the first person I've had on DeckTales who has also worked on river cruises.

He told me many things about that industry I never knew before, and being someone who used to research quizzes for a living, I assume most of what he told me was well researched.

I'll let you be the judge.

Enjoy!

Recorded 5th August 2024

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EP 21: Jini worked as a show team member and band singer onboard ships for about a decade, and we worked together on one of my last contracts which was one of her first.

She now works in advertising, but does still dabble in the arts from time to time with her ship soul mate Sergio

It was so much fun to catch up with Jini after all these years, and because she was so kind to laugh at my jokes, I thought it’d be best to kick off the new season of DeckTales with her interview.

Jini talked about the parallels between ship life and reality TV, the lecherous types of inappropriate guests she encountered onboard,stichin’ an bitchin’, how she met her partner and much more!

Enjoy!

Recorded 5th October 2024

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Ep 20: Nate used to work on my last ship many years ago as a receptionist, and only recently made a rather unconventional switch to the housekeeping department, where he now works as a cabin steward. He filled me in on how this turn of events transpired, and dished the dirt on some of his employers' antics over the years. In this episode you’ll hear first-hand how it is to be working in one of the toughest jobs on cruise ships, what happens when the ship leaves without you, and how to keep on the good side of the onboard mafia. Again, this episode contains some difficult subject matter, so viewer discretion is advised. Finally, that wraps it up for season 1 of DeckTales, so I just want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who’s been a guest on the show so far, and to everyone who’s been tuning in each week. I’ll be back with more soon and will keep you updated when I can, but for now, lets anchor up ⚓ and have a little listen.�� Enjoy! ��

Recorded 9th August 2024

#behindthescenes #podcastclips #decktales #BelowDeck #guestrelationships #receptionist #housekeepingjob #cabinsteward #lifeatsea #shiplife #backtoworkafterquarantine

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Ep 19: Emily used to work on a number of different vessels within the cruise industry over a six year period. At first working on the front desk, and progressed her way up to guest relations manager.

She now works in Vancouver on the ferries responsible for similar albeit not as stressful duties, and the pair of us connected over Facebook page 'The Crew Bar', where she and a few others work to keep crew members from around the world connected, in a light hearted and meme friendly manner.

In addition to this, Emily has been working hard to get another page (crewscritics) up and running, which

provides anonymous posting so that crew can review their companies without fear of reprisals. This episode you can expect to hear some difficult subject matter, so viewer discretion is advised.

Other than that, she had a nice collection of stories to balance out some of the darker parts of her past, and she is so amazing to have come on and shared her story, because she and I want others to hear about it, so if they have experienced something similar, then they will know they are not alone.

Enjoy!

#behindthescenes #podcastclips #decktales #BelowDeck #guestrelations #receptionist #assaultawarness #sensitivecontent⚠️ #cautionarytale #triggerwarning⚠️⚠️⚠️ #roofied #disgustingbehaviour #waterbottle

Recorded 8th August 2024

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EP 18: JD worked on a ship with me during my first contract back in 2006, but his decade long career is a 50/50 split, between working in photography/videography and shore excursions.

In this episode you will learn how to lower your expectations when venturing out on a land booked trip, how to sleep through an onboard fire, and what happens after you hit an iceberg.

You may also learn a thing or two about the positives covid had on the industry, as well as 'where da food at'.

JD had his guard up during this episode, so it took a fair bit of inquisitive probing to get any decent stories out of him.

In fairness to JD, he knows all to well the dangers of antagonizing the industry, and I'll give him some tiny degree of credit, because last year we went for beers before I began working on DeckTales, and he wouldn't shut up about ship life!

So he could be considered an ember that sparked my creative ambitions.

Enjoy!

Recorded 1st July 2024

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Ep 17: Liam and I have been acquainted over the years with thanks to our many days spent working together as TV and film extras.

We did reminisce briefly about some of the productions we have both worked on together, but the main focus of today's episode, was to get a bit more of an insight into the Royal Navy.

Liam spent four years as an officer cadet, and recounted various tales from his time during training, being away at sea on deployment, remembrance day parades, nauseous voyages and tracking down the Russians.

I wanted to keep the door open on DeckTales to not only look behind the scenes of the cruise ship industry, but other types of maritime career as well.

Hopefully this will mean that mariners of many other backgrounds will feel the show has more to offer, and who knows, maybe one day they'll reach out to be a guest in the future.

As my own background lies heavily in the cruise ship industry, a lot of my contacts do stem from there, but as the show grows, I hope it can grow roots and spread to other niches within the shipping sector.

Enjoy!

Recorded June 22nd 2024

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EP 16: Today's guest was referred to the show by his former colleague Bboy Smurf, (who I interviewed in episode 13).

Mase Boogie spent a few years working on Carnival cruise ships, where he worked as a hip hop dancer putting on daily high energy shows for the punters.

The things he got up to in his spare time are revealed within this episode, with one of his favourite extra curricular activities being coning!

Not knowing who the guest is on a personal level adds a little something extra I feel, because I never know what to expect until we start speaking for the first time.

Right out the gate Mase was laughing at my jokes so I liked him immediately, he wasn't coy with his anecdotes, embracing that it was a long time ago and made him the person he is today.

When asked what he currently does for a living, Mase gave me cryptic clues relating to certain NBA associations, but was careful not to name drop any of them directly.

So if you want to know which teams they are...you'll just have to listen to the episode.

Enjoy!

Recorded 10th June 2024

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EP 15: Brad got in touch with me a few weeks back, as he and his co-hosts have a very similar podcast to DeckTales called 'My Ship Story'.

He suggested we do a crossover episode, and of course I loved the idea, so here it is!

Brad usually leads the hosting responsibilities over on 'My Ship Story', and it was him that initially reached out, so I figured he was the best person to have on DeckTales.

In his past life Brad worked as a purser and receptionist during a 10 year career at sea.

He told me all about his roles and duties, the disasters experienced on an old ship called the Topaz, the debauched behaviour of his podcasting co-hosts, deaths on board and loads more.

The only difference between our shows is that they've been doing it longer, and that there's three of them and only one of me.

If you care to listen to me getting grilled for stories, then you can listen to it over on podbean.

My Ship Story | myshipstorypodcast (podbean.com)

Enjoy and enjoy!!

Recorded 9th June 2024

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EP 14: Nelly and I worked together for Carnival back in the day, so we had a few mutual friends and stories between us.

She worked as a kids and teens club host for about 4 years, and her experiences were in many ways wildly different from my own.

In this episode you'll get to hear Nelly talk about witnessing a jumper from the ship, getting a rude wake up call from the coast guard, what it's like working on a nudist charter cruise and more!

She was so quick to get back to me after I initially reached out to her about being on the podcast, and even quicker to commit to a scheduled time for a chat.

Why can't everyone be more like Nelly ey?

We had a lot of laughs on this one as Nelly was a great guest, and the first former kids host to come forward to be on the show.

Enjoy!

Recorded May 29th 2024

#BTS #podcast #decktales #kidshost #belowdeck #birthdaysuit #coastguard #cruisestory #cruisetalk #jumper #sharks # #matchbox

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Ep13: BBOY Smurf- Introducing BBOY Smurf

I worked with Smurf for about 3 and a half months back in 2010 right at the end of my cruise ship career, and found out during this chat, that Smurf also ended his shortly after, albeit for extremely different reasons.

He's a good sport for coming on the podcast, and for being so brutally honest about everything he got up to during his time with Carnival. So thanks to you Smurf for not holding back and sharing your story.

He worked as a member of the Fun Force team onboard, which back then was a hip-hop/breakdancing duo.

Some of the things Smurf told me in this episode he's never really spoken about since they happened, and I was honestly a bit gobsmacked after hearing them, as I had literally no idea!

Smurf continues to teach dance within his community to this day, and spends most of his time working as a tattoo artist.

This was a amazing episode as it was a real eye opener into what you can get away with on a cruise ship...although I need to cover myself by saying I wouldn't encourage anyone to try doing some of the things Smurf did...

Enjoy!

Recorded May 27th 2024

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EP 12: A musical comedian of over 20 years and a Britain's Got Talent semi finalist, Kev is one of those comedy acts that catches you off guard and leaves you speechless in the best kind of way.

His show was something I always remembered when we met onboard the Thomson Destiny back in 2006, not just because of how unique it truly was, but also because his ability on the piano is like watching a master at work.

These days Kev does a bit less work on the cruise ships, but he is by no means any less busy. Travelling all around the world performing, setting up a studio space for creative minds to collaborate, running the Jongleurs comedy brand, currently over in Armenia changing lives for families, and much much more!

He's an incredibly positive person and his charisma is infectious, so getting Kev on DeckTales was extremely humbling, especially considering how busy he is.

I know this episode will popular, given how popular Kev is with audiences around the world.

He's a fantastic storyteller and had some brilliant anecdotes.

Enjoy!

Recorded April 3rd 2024

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