Moving from a career at sea to a career ashore

In Spring 2011, after spending 12 years working onboard within the cruise industry, I decided it was time to continue and further develop my maritime career in a shore-based role.

I first joined the maritime industry in 1997, working in several office roles located in Dover and London within the ferry and cruise sectors of the P&O Group. In 1999, whilst working for the small British cruise company Swan Hellenic, which was renowned for operating destination lead educational and cultural cruises I embarked on my very first working cruise, sailing from Venice to Athens visiting Libya, Malta and Italy on route. This was my first taste of working onboard, as part of the Shore Excursion team. Little did I know what would be in store.

In the next 12 years I would have the most exciting experience, visiting all four corners of the world, from Antarctica and South America, to the Far East, India and Africa, as well as the established ports of the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.  Although I have never counted, I must have visited well over 100 countries and territories.    I held several different roles, working my way up in position within the guest services department.  Over this time, I gained excellent experience and knowledge of working within the cruise industry.

Since 2011 I have been part of the team at the Viking Maritime Group, firstly as Recruitment Manager and now for the last 3 years since 2016 as General Manager (Cruise & Yacht).  This is a demanding fast paced role.  The tremendous growth in the cruise industry is very exciting.  My own professional experience, which includes travelling extensively, seeing different cultures and meeting many different people gives me the know how to ensure we, at Viking, deliver solutions to the industry challenges that we face.

If I could turn back the clock I would not change the career path and choice that I have taken.

Paul Rutterford, General Manager of Viking Crew