A WHITEHEAD man's new office will look out on some of the world's most spectacular settings.
Captain Keith Dowds has been appointed by P&O Cruises as master of the latest superliner built for the British market, Azura.
When the ship sets sail in April 2010, Keith (45) will hold overall responsibility for its operation, including the safet
y of more than 3000 passengers and 1200 crew.
He said: “I am thrilled to be bringing Azura into service and, through working closely with the officers and crew, will ensure we give our passengers a truly spectacular cruise experience on what will be a stunning addition to the P&O Cruises fleet.
Born and raised in Whitehead, Keith attended Carrickfergus Grammar School. His seagoing career commenced in 1981 when he joined British Petroleum as a deck cadet. After completing initial training, he continued with BP as a watch keeping officer, before joining P&O Cruises in January 1990.
Keith’s first appointment with the company which has been operating cruise ships for more than 170 years was on board Canberra, serving for three years as both third and latterly second officer.
Since attaining the rank of Captain, he has been master of Ocean Village, Oceana, Arcadia, Emerald Princess and is currently Captain of Ventura.
Destinations include the Caribbean, South America, Scandinavia, Mediterranean, Atlantic islands and round the world cruises.
Keith still lives in Northern Ireland, with wife Mandy, and in his spare time enjoys playing golf.
