The first woman seaman of BOURBON in Gabon

Before joining the group, Ariane was a cooling and air conditioning technician. When the young woman wanted to change paths and "acquire new knowledge," she was drawn to the job of seaman. So she applied to BOURBON in Gabon, who gave her a chance and proposed a training plan for her. She then became the first woman seaman in the Gabonese affiliate. Interview.

OFFshore: What position do you hold today?
Ariane-Fauh Essalah: I am a seaman aboard personnel transport vessels, Surfers.

OFFshore: How did your training go?
A.F-E.: BOURBON enabled me to receive training in seamanship, which teaches us how to work at sea, to know the specifics of the vessel, to better understand the dangers of the sea... All in 2 phases, theoretical and practical, with a maritime certification issued upon completion. 

OFFshore: On a day to day basis, as a seaman, what are your tasks?
A.F-E.: I'm there to ensure passenger safety throughout their travel, from embarkation to disembarkation, all while responding to their needs. I also have to maintain the vessel, receive and unload parcels. These are the main tasks that a seamen needs to know how to perform. In an emergency, I must be able to take the helm if needed, if the pilot is suddenly incapacitated.

OFFshore: Do you work in a team and, if so, with whom?
A.F-E.: There are several types of Surfers. The size of the crew depends on the size of the vessel. I am currently working on a Surfer 2600, operated by a 4-person crew: seamen, oiler, pilot, and mechanic.

OFFshore: What do you like best about the job of seaman?
A.F-E.: I love sailing, being in contact with the sea but also with passengers of course. It is always interesting to meet new people, to be in contact with them. My role is to provide them with a quality service under all circumstances.

 OFFshore: What can you tell us about being a seafarer and woman?
A.F-E.: Being the first woman seaman, it’s already something special. I receive a lot of encouragement, congratulations. I am very proud of it and I have more confidence in myself.

OFFshore: How do you see the rest of your career?
A.F-E.: I want to persevere and go even further. This means developing my skills, taking other training programs and, hopefully, becoming a Surfer pilot one day!