From volunteer to First Mate: Bruce’s journey

After volunteering three years ago, Bruce joined us on board Silurian as First Mate for our latest acoustic survey. Bruce talks to our Science Officer Becky about that three year journey, why that first survey made such an impact and why working with HWDT is so important to him…

Tell us about your first survey. Why did you choose to sail with HWDT?

In 2018 I was working as an airline pilot and looking for a holiday which didn’t involve getting on an aeroplane.  I was also looking for a holiday where I would be able (‘forced’) to meet people (I am quite shy at times).  A friend of mine had done a survey earlier in the year and came back full of energy and amazing stories of close encounters with cetaceans.  This sounded like it fitted my needs, so I booked myself on a survey with expectations of a great holiday, and some good memories.  I had sailed quite a bit, both dinghies and yachts, and had done land-based expeditions as a younger man until the career thing took over in the insidious way that it can if you let it.

What was the best thing about the survey and what was it that made you want to come back?!

During the survey we visited hidden bays, watched dolphins bow-riding and saw the Minch boiling with dolphins and whales.  I got to know my boat-mates as we worked and socialised in our boat-bubble, and I switched off from my intense operational work environment quite completely.  We had highs and lows of weather and helped each other through it all.  I remembered how much I had loved sailing, and the connection I used to love with the sea and the elements.  I spent my watches on the mast with rain dribbling down my neck whilst grinning like an idiot.  I felt I was on a marine safari!

The conservation aspect of HWDT’s work was new to me, and I really understood very little about it.  The people who I met, both the HWDT team, and fellow volunteers, were very knowledgeable as well as passionate about environmental and wildlife issues.  I really admired their commitment and dedication to their work.  They really opened my eyes to some of the issues faced in conservation.  I wanted to become more involved in that and made a commitment to contribute to the efforts in some way.

At the end of that survey the first thing I did was book the next one that was available (10 weeks away) and then booked courses to complete Day Skipper training.  At this stage I thought I might develop sailing as a retirement activity. Three more surveys later, lockdown hit us all, and I was laid off from my career.  The choice for was obvious: I had a clear path to make the retirement activity a new career.  In summer 2020 I completed all the courses required to work in a commercial sailing job.  I then set my sights on a job on Silurian….

How was the latest expedition on board Silurian and what are you looking forward to in future expeditions ?

This latest acoustic expedition has been another amazing Hebridean experience.  I have learnt loads more about why we do what we do, and why we do it the ways we do it, as well as developing my sailing skills in the complex Hebridean waters.  I am really looking forward to being able to share these experiences with volunteers in the fullness of time.  I would love the opportunity to pass on some of the inspiration that has been passed to me by the crews I have sailed with, and now work with.  I feel very proud that I have been accepted into this great group of people.  There are moments when I need to pinch myself and remind myself that I am here because I am ‘good enough’ (imposter syndrome is strong, but I am beating it back). 

What began as a holiday activity has been a complete game changer. I have been warned before: ‘be careful what you wish for, you don’t know where you might end up’. I am very happy and grateful that I have ended up here: it is a great place to be.

What is the best thing about coming back and working with HWDT?  

Being accepted into the amazing group of sailors who crew Silurian, and working with the wonderful Science Officer, Becky (Thanks Bruce! :) ). HWDT is a very professional group, both as scientists, and the ‘operational’ team on Silurian.  As well as that they are so passionate and enthusiastic about marine biology, and cetaceans.  They love to share their experiences and knowledge (and a survey on Silurian has a bit of a captive audience).  Their energy totally infected me, and I have been made to feel so welcome among them since the first trip as a volunteer, and now as a member of the team.

It has been an absolutely pleasure sailing with you again Bruce. From everyone at HWDT, welcome aboard the team!

FEELING INSPIRED By Bruce’s journey? THE 2022 ARE NOW LIVE! JOIN US ON BOARD FOR YOUR CHANCE TO CONTRIBUTE TO OUR RESEARCH AND ENCOUNTER SOME OF THE AMAZING WILDLIFE WE HAVE IN OUR WATERS. You Never know it may even inspire a career change!…