Life at sea: Captain Dave

Dave was more or less always on duty. He had a way of making everyone think he was relaxed. Even in storm conditions, he would whistle under his breath and calmly move from one task to another. People felt safe on board.

I spent years sailing with him, and over time I began to see what lay beneath that calm surface. While he appeared at ease, he was constantly and quietly paying attention. He would glance at the compass to make sure you were on course. He could wake from a deep sleep if he sensed the wind shifting. Sometimes he would simply keep someone company during a long night watch.

His presence was steady and unspoken. You might not notice it at first. But it was there, holding everything together.