The sea has always fascinated me and it still does. When I was younger, I wanted to be a marine biologist and explore marine life further. I did not set out for the cruise industry, I actually tried to stay in the yachting industry, but after gaining my masters unlimited certificate I came to find out I was a little ‘overqualified’ at that time and an apparent threat to the very male-dominated yachting industry back then. So, I ended up at Windstar, where I have happily been for the last 14 years. 

I’ve run into both racism and sexism over the years, but I have never let it be an issue. It’s not my problem, it’s theirs.  Also, I had a rough start. When I was training as a cadet, I sailed with chief officers who made me work harder than the other guys. During your cadetship you're starting out as a sailor, so you do every job that they do. I had a chief officer, unfortunately, who made me work later than the sailors, so they would knock off for the day, and I would be left outside continuing to work until it got dark. It really was a make-or-break-you time, and me being me, I refused to be broken.

The Wind Star is a small ship, and we have an open bridge policy, which means you can stop by at almost any time and visit me on the bridge. This is a rarity in the cruise industry. The hotel manager and I also like to greet our guests on the gangway when they arrive. Some people say to the hotel manager, “You're the captain?” and the hotel manager loves to say, “No, she is.” You get all different reactions. It’s quite fun to watch. I think the women love it. Some men are in awe, and some are slightly: “What, you're the captain?”

I haven’t had any extra challenges a male captain wouldn't have had in this position. I think the challenges are as you come up through the ranks, versus when you are at the top. As a female captain, you have overcome pretty much most challenges in the industry by then. I have an excellent team to work with, thank goodness.

You have to be a good communicator – able to both talk and listen – for guests and crew alike. Open communication is key in this job. If you can talk to your team and get them to talk to you, life is a lot easier. Whenever I have constructive feedback to give, I like to end it on a high note. You also need to be visible to both guests and the crew – and you need to have an approachable demeanour and a strong mind.

Even though times are changing, women joining the industry is still slow. Don’t be afraid to come to sea, you get to see the world and be paid for it. If you really want it, no matter what obstacles come your way, you can and will overcome those obstacles. Being a woman, you have to work extra hard to prove yourself, even more than a man. Some men might not like that, but that's the way it is. Work hard, be strong and don't let anything deter you. I've done it. You can do it too.

Its intimate atmosphere – you get to actually meet and greet everyone, guests and crew alike. And there are some fabulous places that smaller cruise ships call at that you wouldn’t see on a larger vessel. It's the perfect line for me and guests who like to get a bit more off the beaten path.

That my guests and crew are safe, with the guests having an enjoyable, memorable time onboard. I also want to ensure the crew are happy and content – only then can they provide the best service to our guests.

That my guests and crew are safe, with the guests having an enjoyable, memorable time onboard. I also want to ensure the crew are happy and content – only then can they provide the best service to our guests.