Friday, December 15, 2023
The crew of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has been honored with Norwegian Ship Owners Association Medals in recognition of their extensive service at sea.
Eight crew members have collectively accumulated over 270 years of service aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines ships. Among them, the most seasoned individuals, Victor Magbanua and Carmelita Lao, have each amassed an impressive 37 years of service.
Victor, an Oiler, initiated his career with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in August 1986, driven by a desire to work at sea and explore the world. Throughout his tenure, he has contributed his skills on board Black Prince, Black Watch, Borealis, and Balmoral.
Carmelita, the Room Stewardess, became a part of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in February 1987. Carmelita said, “Black Prince – which I called Happy Ship – was my favourite, but I’ve also worked on Boudicca and Balmoral,and I’ve loved visiting a variety of new places and meeting people of all different nationalities.”
The 1st Engineer on Balmoral, Jose Villalobos, and Fitter Roberto Rebite have both dedicated 34 years of service each. Additionally, Roberto joined Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in October 1989, starting his journey on board the Black Prince. Over the years, he has contributed to various departments, including deck fitting, engine fitting, and welding.
Jose said, “My time at sea with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has been a wonderful journey, and with retirement approaching in a few years’ time, I have made countless memories and close-knit bonds.”
Assistant Housekeeper Ruth Manaog has been with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines since December 1991. In her 32 years of service, she has worked on various ships, including Black Prince, Boudicca, Black Watch, Balmoral, and Borealis. Ruth’s favorite part of her role is interacting with guests while navigating the ship’s decks. During the Fleet in Funchal event in November, she and four others received long service awards. Three additional crew members, Tank Cleaner Roberto Cortez (36 years), Deck Carpenter Noel Cuevas (33 years), and Chef de Partis Gimmie Macatangay (31 years), were also recognized for their service. Unfortunately, they couldn’t attend the celebrations in Madeira.
Pete Deer, Managing Director of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said, “Our crew are a vital part of everything that we stand for and they are central to the specialness of a Fred. Olsen cruise.”
Monday, April 29, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
