Advertise on 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. 🔑 Key TakeawaysSeafaring 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.🎬Chapters00:00 – 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 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. 🔑 Key TakeawaysPassion evolves over timePaul’s career path proves it’s never too late to pivot toward what you truly love.Storytelling is the heart of cruisingWhether through books or podcasts, compelling human experiences drive engagement.Cruising is more than a vacationFor enthusiasts, it’s a lifestyle, community, and even an identity.Themed cruises create unmatched experiencesShared passions (music, culture, etc.) elevate connection and enjoyment onboard.Adversity can spark creativityThe pandemic disrupted Paul’s work—but ultimately led to deeper storytelling and new formats.There’s an untold side of cruise lifeBehind the glamour lies a complex crew experience that rarely gets fully explored. 🎬Chapters00:00 – 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 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 ⚓ Key TakeawaysHuman factors drive most incidents80–90% of maritime accidents trace back to human elements—fatigue, miscommunication, or deeper systemic issues—not just surface-level errors.Fatigue and loneliness are chronic issuesLong rotations, isolation, and high workloads continue to strain mental health at sea.Technology ≠ solutionAutomation has reduced crew sizes and increased pressure, often worsening communication and workload instead of easing it.Psychological safety is critical—but overlookedCrew 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 transformativeTineke’s turning point came from shifting out of a victim mindset and recognizing patterns in her own behavior.Maritime life is misunderstood ashoreTime off is often seen as “holiday,” masking the intensity and sacrifice of life onboard.Generational and cultural clashes are risingDifferences in values, communication styles, and expectations are creating new tensions at sea. 🎬Chapters00:00 – 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 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please make sure to like and subscribe to help support the channel. Cheers! 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. Key TakeawaysCalm under pressure is everythingYou can’t change what’s already happened—focus only on what’s next.Small ambiguities lead to big disastersEvery major incident starts with something small that gets ignored.Technology is a double-edged swordIt helps—but overreliance without understanding can be dangerous.Life at sea builds elite skillsLeadership, problem-solving, resilience, and adaptability are second nature to sailors.The job has changed dramaticallyFrom “hold the rope and go” to strict safety protocols and paperwork.Not all danger is dramaticFrom piracy to ghost stories, the mental and psychological side of sea life is just as real.Sailors are more versatile than they thinkTheir skillset translates powerfully into almost any industry. 🎬 Chapters00:00 – 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 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 �� Key Takeaways1. Titanic’s Enduring Fascination· The Titanic remains culturally powerful because it blends tragedy, human drama, and myth. · It has evolved from a disaster into a romanticized global story. 2. History Repeats Itself· The same traits—hubris, overconfidence, and profit over safety—link the Titanic disaster to modern incidents like the Titan implosion. 3. Untold Stories Matter· 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. 4. Survival Isn’t the End of the Story· Survivors often faced lifelong trauma, guilt, and hardship—challenging the “happy ending” assumption. 5. Class System Extended Beyond Death· Even in recovery efforts, first-class passengers were prioritized over third-class victims. 6. Technology is Changing Historical Exploration· Advances like VR and AI allow immersive experiences of Titanic without risking lives or disturbing a grave site. 7. Passion Can Become a Career· Nelson turned a childhood obsession into books, speaking gigs, and a successful podcast—showing the value of leaning into niche interests. 8. Cruise Culture: Then vs Now· Early ocean liners were about transport, not leisure. · Modern cruising ranges from luxury heritage experiences to entertainment-focused “floating resorts.” ⏱️Chapters00:00 – 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! 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please make sure to like and subscribe to help support the channel. Cheers! 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/ 🔑 Key Takeaways1. Experience Over Formal TrainingEric rose from apprentice to captain by learning on the job.Real-world exposure and mentorship were critical to his development. 2. Innovation at SeaWorked on the first dynamically positioned drillship, holding position over deep wells without anchors.Early tech was massive and experimental, but groundbreaking. 3. Risk Is Constant—Preparation Is EverythingMaritime work involves frequent danger: capsizes, fires, extreme weather.Strong training in damage control and firefighting is essential. 4. Leadership Means ResponsibilityCaptains must resist pressure to take unsafe actions.Safety decisions directly impact crew lives. 5. The Human Side of Maritime LifeStories reveal camaraderie, humor, and chaos (especially during crew changes).Long careers are built not just on skill, but relationships and shared experience. 6. Mentorship LegacyOne of Eric’s proudest achievements is training crew who became captains and pilots.Passing on knowledge is as important as acquiring it. ⏱️ Chapters 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! 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: 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.

Ep54:Moss Hills 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. Key TakeawaysLeadership can emerge from anywhereWhen the Oceanos crew failed to act, untrained entertainers stepped up and effectively ran the evacuation.Communication is critical in crisisThe absence of announcements on the Oceanos caused confusion, while clear communication on the Achille Lauro improved control despite the danger.Training vs. instinctMoss had no formal emergency training, yet quick thinking and teamwork saved lives—highlighting the importance of adaptability.Maritime disasters are rare—but unforgivingBoth incidents reinforce how unusual such events are, yet how rapidly they escalate when they occur.Human behavior under pressure varies widelyFrom panic and denial to courage and humor, the episode captures a full spectrum of reactions in life-threatening situations.Experience reshapes perspective, not fearDespite surviving two disasters, Moss continued his career at sea, later emphasizing safety and preparedness as a cruise director. ⏱️ Chapters00:00 – 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! 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: 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.

Ep53:Jenn Sellitti 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. Key TakeawaysShipwrecks 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/ 🎬 Chapters00:00 – 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! 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: 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 decisionsTrusting (or mistrusting) instruments has made or broken countless voyagesShipwrecks reveal as much about their era’s technology and culture as they do about the seaPreparation matters, but humility matters moreThe 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! 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: 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.

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. 🔑 Key TakeawaysNo days off reality: Crew can work 7 days a week for months, often 10–14 hours daily. Sarah TranscriptHierarchy & inequality: Treatment varies based on role, nationality, and even accent. Sarah TranscriptEmotional & physical burnout: Constant “high energy” expectations with little recovery time. Sarah TranscriptSerious incidents happen: Includes medical emergencies, rescues at sea, and onboard conflicts. Sarah TranscriptBlurred professional boundaries: Living and working together creates uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe situations. Sarah TranscriptHidden crew culture: Includes unofficial economies, internal politics, and social dynamics passengers never see. Sarah TranscriptDespite it all… Travel opportunities and unique experiences keep many crew coming back. Chapters 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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. ⚓ Key TakeawaysSeafarers 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 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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: 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 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: 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 Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.