Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines have welcomed 24 Sea Cadets from the Edinburgh District Sea Cadets, in a chance to learn more about life and sea and step aboard a cruise ship.

Last Thursday, during Balmoral’s inaugural call of 2024 to the port of Rosyth, the Sea Cadets were welcomed by members of Balmoral’s Bridge Team, including Captain Steffan Ravneng, Safety Officer Euan Ross from and two deck cadets.

Following breakfast with Captain Ravneng and talk about life at sea, the cadets were taken to the lower decks including the engine control room and toured the public areas of the ship followed by a lunch in the Ballindalloch restaurant.

Cadets came from across the Edinburgh District from groups including the Edinburgh Trinity Unit, Leith Unit, Musselburgh Unit and Dunbar Unit.

Ewan Galloway, District Officer for Edinburgh Sea Cadets, said:

“Bringing together cadets from all across Edinburgh for a cruise ship experience was a remarkable opportunity to showcase and embrace the skills cultivated in the Sea Cadets. This visit not only highlighted the relevance of these skills in the maritime sector but also left every cadet feeling privileged and inspired.

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for the wonderful opportunity provided by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Seeing the cadets’ faces light up upon arriving at the beautiful ship, Balmoral, was truly delightful.”

Stewart Ferguson, Head of Quality and Resource, at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:

“It’s always a real pleasure for us to welcome young people on board our ships to learn more about life at sea. As a business that places a huge amount of importance on supporting local communities, we are proud to have welcomed the Edinburgh District Sea Cadets aboard Balmoral.

“There are so many opportunities to grow, develop and lead fulfilling careers across the maritime sector and we hope to have inspired some of these bright young minds about what can be available in their own futures.”

Sea Cadets are a national youth charity founded in 1856, offering a variety of opportunities and adventures to young people aged from 10 – 18 years old following a rank structure similar to that of the Royal Navy.