My name is Tom Henderson. I live in Glasgow, Scotland.
I first went to sea in 2010, at the age of 18, as a cadet on cargo ships; Containers and Car Carriers. Since qualifying as a Deck Officer, I have worked on crew transfer vessels in the North Sea, Cruise Ships for 4 years after which I made the move to yachts, where I have been working on MY Eclipse for the last 4 and a half years, currently as a 1st Officer. I had always wanted to work in the yachting industry, so when I was offered the job I was delighted.
I moved to yachts and started as a 2nd Officer, keeping a navigational watch and was also involved in the maintenance of safety equipment and also passage planning. I was then promoted to 1st Officer/ Safety Officer where my main roles onboard are: overseeing all training, drills and safety inductions carried out onboard. I also keep an overview of all LSA and FFE onboard and I am also responsible for keeping certification up to date. In my role as 1st/ Safety Officer, I investigate all accidents and incidents onboard and report back to the Captain and Safety Management Company with suggestions. I am also involved in the Monthly Safety Meetings. As much as I love the Navigational and admin side of my job, I also enjoy getting involved in the water sports aspect of the job, mainly going on jet skis and trying out new water sport toys.
I am also a member of the Nautical Institute and Royal Institute of Navigation.
When I am not onboard, I enjoy a wide variety of sports including football and tennis, which I play recreationally and also as a coach. I love travelling and exploring new countries.
