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
