Ship Simulator
English forum => Small talk => Topic started by: Stuart2007 on June 02, 2007, 01:01:32
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Just wondering...
Does anyone here ever travel on Pride of Bilbao? I went on recently for the first time in a few years and most of the senior crew have gone- probably as a result of the decimation of Portsmouth.
Particularly interested to know if Capt. Ross is still a skipper elsewhere, or if he's retired. For those who've been onboard will know he ran a tight ship, but a happy ship... It's noticable that the new officers have a... ahem... different approach to crew & passenger management!
Stu
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Hi Stuart,
I have been onboard the legendary Pride of Bilbao twice last year alone - once when it was rough and once when it was calm. As far as I'm aware the two Captains are "A.McFadyen" and "P.Hill".
You may be interested in both Voyage reports:
Voyage Report 1: http://www.bfeforums.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=4019 [Force 12 in Biscay]
YouTube Video of the above trip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4qr6PEgqww
Voyage Report 2: http://www.bfeforums.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=3115
The ship itself is starting to show her age but the crew are brilliant. Many ship's officers move onto new posts over the years - not all like to stay on one ship operating one route which is fair enough.
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McFaden is OK. He was very reassuring to those worried about the weather conditions. I personally fid his mannerisms to be a little lacking, but that is only because I keep comparing him to Capt Ross, despite being busy would always stop to speak to passengers when doing his rounds. McFaden runs about the ship- I saw him and his officers running down the stairs and I thought there was a problem.
POBI is still a great ship- the atmosphere is nicer, IMHO, than say Pont Aven etc. She is getting on a bit, but so am I.
Its heartening to see people race off the deck of HMS Victory and HMS Warrior to watch the famous ship sail past- she could do with a damned good repaint!
Stu
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Hi Stuart, some very interesting observations you have made there. Out of interest how was Captain Ross as a Captain and what was different about him in comparison with some of the others you have sailed with? You clearly thought he had been very professional & efficient, and said he ran a "tight ship" - with a geniune interest in what way?
James
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There are two aspects to a skippers job, as you know.
1) Can he drive a boat?
From all the times I went on POB and most imes managed a bridge visit (rarely allowed in winter) The bridge seemed more organised, yet relaxed (if that makes sense).
On arrival in dock, Capt Ross would bring the ship alongside in one attempt. I've seen lately where (Bilbao) it stops short and they have to start moving again, sometimes 2 or 3 tries - like someone parking a car in Tescos, getting out and saying "damn, a few more inches I think".
As for tight ship... Everyone knew their job. He never had to remind them who was boss. You met him once and he instantly received respect, he's that sort. I'm sure he was a right bas*ard if you pushed him though.
We had some drunken lads on first holiday on their own- caused maybe a dozen cabins to be relocated as they were abusive and vomiting over the place (badly). They were let back on in Bilbao as the pursor/capt didn't want to create trouble- despite them breaking P&O rules. I think Ross would have refused them travel as they were THAT bad.
That said, before leaving Pompey, McFaden did go to great length to explain that the wind/sea would make banging noises on the hull, not to worry- its normal and that the ship was built for much worse weather in the Baltic (as MV Olympia). It did reassure several nervous people.
I was not impressed that I had to go and tell crew that the aft lifeboat locker was open and that belts were starting to carry off in the wind! Did they check this ship first? After it had sat in Pompey for 2 days!
It's not to say that the new lot aren't competent I'm sure they are and I have every faith in them.
2)What is he like in P.R.
Despite the fact that it is the pursor who really is in charge of passengers, it is the Captain that everyone wants to speak to. On his rounds, Ross was always speaking to people- getting real feedback into what people thought of the ship, crew and the facilities onboard. On one bridge visit, despite coming off duty he spent ten minutes explaining the answer to a technical question on our group asked (I REFUSE to say if I asked the question).
When we were coming of in Pompey (5 hrs late) the relief skipper came up the walkway and instead of 'excuse me please, I need to get the ship ready ASAP' on the radio he said(to crew) 'will you get them (us) out the way, I'm in a bit of a hurry' and the crew on deck 5 said 'move aside. Captain comin through'
He did not endear himself to passengers and there were complaints. Again, Capt Ross would never have been so tactless or so careless to be overheard!
In summary, Capt Ross recognised that although the skipper is the most respected officer on board, he knew he was only there because of his passengers.
Sorry, long post but you asked. I'm afraid I am not impressed with McFaden and Hill.
Stuart
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Bl***y hell. Was a long post!
In fairness, should point out that Capt Ross had been on for many years. McFaden has maybe not been quite as long in the job...
Stu
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Wow, that was a long post and made for a highly interesting read! :)
Part of the reason why I asked was because I am hoping to start training a ships deck officer in September 2008 (preferably in the cruising industry) and it's good to know what passengers think makes a good officer. You'd be supprised how much useful information is truly in your reply so thank you!
James
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Wow, that was a long post and made for a highly interesting read! :)
Part of the reason why I asked was because I am hoping to start training a ships deck officer in September 2008 (preferably in the cruising industry) and it's good to know what passengers think makes a good officer. You'd be supprised how much useful information is truly in your reply so thank you!
James
That was a great post, indeed. Too bad the Bilbao is getting on in age. I personally find the PoR much more handsome.
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Well I disagree with you Dave ;)
(had to put that... :) )
I think POBI is a functional looking ship, designed for Artic conditions. The sort of ship that looks like it isn't afraid of weather, ice, whales, hurricanes.
The POR is a very attractive ship, yes, but I don't like the modern fascination of an open plan rear deck or the big sweeping curves.
Stuart
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Well, that is an interesting point, indeed. Both ships each have their own pros and cons. I just wish he forward section of the Bilbao were a bit prettier then I am sure I would think better of her appearances. However, I do like that she is built to challenge the elements. Of course, the Rotterdam is pretty tough as well, I would hope.
PoR looks like something that came off Kvaerner Masa assembly line. They had a trademark style for so long, and still do. I forget, did Kvaerner build her though? (Or now known as Aker Yards). I probably like the PoR because she reminds me of the Superfast fleet, of which have similar style, yet they are styled to look a little more . . . speedy? ;p
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If you want to talk about ugly ships, look at e po portsmouth/le havre (ex olau line) flat sided, flat front.
The only thing that strikes me about pobi being wrong is that deck 10 stops half way and the exhaust stack is on a seperate 'mini deck'.
Sorry to harp on about pobi, but she really is lovely- needs cleaning, but has wonderful sea keeping qualities, built like a tank and has a character...
Stu
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If you want to talk about ugly ships, look at e po portsmouth/le havre (ex olau line) flat sided, flat front.
The only thing that strikes me about pobi being wrong is that deck 10 stops half way and the exhaust stack is on a seperate 'mini deck'.
Sorry to harp on about pobi, but she really is lovely- needs cleaning, but has wonderful sea keeping qualities, built like a tank and has a character...
Stu
Wait, the Bilbao is not bad looking, albiet not as sleek as the Rotterdam. Was there an older version of the vessel? I saw an image of a ship with her name and it looked like an old, nasty version of what I am seeing now.
And the Portsmouth - That poor old girl was beat with the ugly stick! MAN!! Talk about the ugly step-sister! LOL!
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Again though the Portsmouth and Le Havre were both really nice inside. They were over engineered in passenger comfort for their original route (sheerness- Vlessingham) and probably were the reason Olau went broke (amongst other things)
In fact, I think they may still be the best furnished/presented to this date.
But it is STILL POBI that draws the crowd at Portsmouth. Honestly, people DO run off the Victory to get a better look at POB. It is hard to believe but true.
Stu
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Again though the Portsmouth and Le Havre were both really nice inside. They were over engineered in passenger comfort for their original route (sheerness- Vlessingham) and probably were the reason Olau went broke (amongst other things)
In fact, I think they may still be the best furnished/presented to this date.
But it is STILL POBI that draws the crowd at Portsmouth. Honestly, people DO run off the Victory to get a better look at POB. It is hard to believe but true.
Stu
Wow. She has that much sheer presence?
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They were over engineered in passenger comfort for their original route (sheerness- Vlessingham) and probably were the reason Olau went broke (amongst other things)
Over engineered for passenger comfort? Explain
In fact, I think they may still be the best furnished/presented to this date.
Stu
Any images you may have that display this? The Rotterdam and and Bilbao look pretty nice inside . . . I would like to see what those ugly, old boats have on the inside.
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Sorry. The Olau ships were very well appointed. The quality of the furnishings would shame many cruise ships. They really are that good (or were anyway- been a while).
The problem is that the ships were geared towards the 'cruise the channel' image, but that isn't really what people seemed to want. remember that a lot of trade is derived from freight which has differing requirements.
In the end TT pulled the plug on Olau. I think there is a good article on wikipedia.
I don't have pics I'm afraid, just memories and opinions. I think they were better presented than POBI (maintenance NOT, repeat NOT, design issues!) but the cabin decks were featureless and 'sterile' (might edit that with a better word later).
Don't really know Rotterdam, so can't compare.
Stu
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What was Portsmouth original name?
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One was the Olau Britannica (Portsmouth) and the other was Olau Hollandia (Le Havre)
Stu
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Sorry to drag up an old topic, but the Pride of Bilbao makes her final sailing to Portsmouth in but a few days...
On the 28th September she will return to Portsmouth for the last time...
A very sad day indeed... :'(
for 17 years she had plied that route...
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There are rumors, that the "PoB" will serve as a second ship for St. Peter Line, connecting St. Petersburg with Stockholm, where she will meet her sister... ::)
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There seems to be a lot of rumours for that route though
Another ship is the Crown of Scandinavia...
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This is it...
the final sailing...
which has a two hour delay due to the amount of people going on it...
sadly I am not one of them...
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Delay :doh:
At least she is leaving in true P&O fashion :doh: :doh:
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She finally left at around 23:00 GMT
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And now you will see the "Cap Finistere" to serve the route from 2011 with significant higher speeds.
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We will indeed :thumbs:
and with a stop off in Roscoff for a crew change...
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Well
She sadly didn't get the send off deserved...
and arrived a hour early... so I wasn't prepared...
(http://i713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/th_DSC_1707.jpg) (http://s713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/?action=view¤t=DSC_1707.jpg)
(http://i713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/th_DSC_1710.jpg) (http://s713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/?action=view¤t=DSC_1710.jpg)
(http://i713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/th_DSC_1720.jpg) (http://s713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/?action=view¤t=DSC_1720.jpg)
(http://i713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/th_DSC_1729.jpg) (http://s713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/The-Ferry-Man/Ferries/PO%20Ferries/Pride%20of%20Bilbao/Final%20voyage/?action=view¤t=DSC_1729.jpg)
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TFM,
Have a look on the other website and there are some interesting stories 'floating' about... Perhaps PoB isn't on a one way trip to Alang after all... ;)
Remember that highly speculative messge I sent you about multiple operators in co-operation?
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I do indeed...
very intriguing rumours
*for those who haven't seen them - rumour is the PoB ("Bilbao" now) is coming back to Portsmouth on the Bilbao run, but for another operator...
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She is now painted in the exact same livery as the Oscar Wilde, blue hull with white funnel :)
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Different blue though, Nathan.
I just can't see IF/ICG running head to head (or bow to bow) with bf... Unless they have more £££ coming in with a joint venture with another operator...
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Blue hull, white funnel....A joint venture with another operator....LD Lines perhaps?
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Apparently she's now being sold to Russia...
http://translate.google.co.uk/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fru.euronews.net%2Fnewswires%2F594717-newswire%2F&sl=ru&tl=en&hl=&ie=UTF-8
For, ahem $76million
http://www.marchmontnews.com/story.php?story_id=14359
But still no mention from ICG to DSE or LSE
http://www.icg.ie/documents/2010/interim-management-statement-2010.pdf
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to what company in russia?
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St Peter's Line
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what this company?
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4748847035_b0fc93f4d8.jpg)
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Yes :thumbs:
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the she will look quite weird in those new scheme of colours (actually only white)
but yeah. i hope she will stay happy there and have a fun time with here new sister
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Well that's good that she got work now. :thumbs:
Kyle
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It is indeed... but miss her I will :'(
But Alright for Stockholm
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i will miss her too..
but still i know for sure that not a single ferry in the whole world has survived for a 100 years
(except for the ones in the museum or yards)
but i will miss her colours that made her look modern and strong :-\
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I would prefer to have Pearl back :doh:
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At least POBI, or Princess Anastasia as she will be known, will be well looked after. Not that floating pub that po turned her into.
Maybe she'll even get some lower sulphur diesel so that her pistons and liners- and valves come to that- don't get so pitted, worn and damaged that she fumigates everyone standing behind her exhaust stack.
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that would be great for her
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that would be great for her
Even better for those standing behind the funnel... ::)
And what a funnel it is :blush:
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woow yeah tall as a skyscraper if you get what i mean
she just looks great to me
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Hope she will be in as good condition as Mariella when St Peter Line takes over :)
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Someone with deep pocket is funding SPL... I think she's going to prove to live to a good old age based on the level of investment....
Maybe the time will come and SPL will buy her big sis too?
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Which one is her big sis?
Olympia (PoB) Is bigger then Mariella. :)
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How do you work that out, V.H94? Marie' is a few tonnes heavier and has those rear sponsons...
But in any case, Marie is her older 'big' sister... Doesn't matter which is actually bigger- ah, it's an expression that's all.
The older one is always big sis.
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TFK, it is customary to ADD something to a post rather than just quote someone else. Or have things changed around here?