This Scotsman has a dry sense of humor and is a very skilled seaman.
Dan is born in Edinburgh and currently living in Plymouth. With a dry sense of humor, he has been an integral part of Bark Europa since 2009, earning his role as First Mate since 2019, after years of sailing as bosun. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of rigging work come not only from his time sailing on Europa but also from working on shipyards, specifically with museum ships in the UK.
Dan’s sailing career is nothing short of impressive, with 26 voyages to Antarctica under his belt and a significant role in the ship’s world trip to Australia between 2012 and 2014. He knows Bark Europa inside and out, from the smallest detail to the best ways to sail her efficiently, making him an invaluable resource when it comes to operating the ship at its highest potential.
As First Mate, Dan is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including voyage preparations, navigation, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the ship. He takes charge of dividing safety roles, organizing drills, and ensuring the readiness of emergency equipment, such as the lifeboat and firefighting gear. His leadership extends beyond just sailing, as he also organizes port calls and public open days when ashore, always happy to share the fascinating stories of his time on Bark Europa with others.
His dedication to the ship’s success and safety, combined with his friendly, approachable nature, makes him a well-respected and admired figure on board. If you catch him, be sure to ask about his diving experiences—he’ll gladly share his passion and excitement with you.