Vernon sets his sights on a marine shipping career

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22: At just 19 years old Bermudian Vernon Harrison has set his course and seems to have his future all mapped out.

The teenage sailor is halfway through a four-month placement as a deck cadet on the Bermuda Islander, helping to ferry supplies between New Jersey and Bermuda.

And in September he is off to study at Warsash Maritime College in the UK, to gain his Officer of the Watch qualification.

Vernon, who was head boy at CedarBridge Academy, has always wanted to pursue a career at sea.

He said: “My great, great grandfather Arthur Knights was a branch pilot so I guess it is in my blood.

“I have done voyages on the Spirit of Bermuda, but this has been my first time on a container ship.

“It took a little while to get used to rolling around all the time.

“There’s been a few sleepless nights and I was a bit seasick the first time.

“But I am getting there now and I have enjoyed the two months I have had onboard the Bermuda Islander. I have learned a great deal and it’s been a real challenge.

Vernon had completed a three-month ratings qualification on Prince Edward Island, Canada, when he joined the Bermuda Islander crew. He hopes to become a branch pilot.

“If everything goes well I could be a captain in eight years,” he said.

“I’m pretty focused on what I want to achieve and I’ll work hard to get there.”

Vernon’s placement on board the Bermuda Islander was made possible thanks to the National Training Board, Bermuda International Shipping Ltd and JR Shipping.

Steven Petty, President of Bermuda International Shipping Ltd, said: “We are very proud and happy to have an association with a young Bermudian who is trying to enhance his career aspirations in the shipping industry.”

The Bermuda Islander arrives tomorrow.

Royal Naval Type 42 Destroyer HMS York arrives in Dockyard today, until Friday.

Cruise ships Summit and Norwegian Gem also arrive today, until Friday. On Saturday Explorer of the Seas arrives, followed by the Norwegian Dawn at 11am on Sunday.

The Veendam is in Hamilton until Friday.