End of an exhilarating ride
He then set sail with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) on a 12-year career from cadet, to first officer, gaining master mariner certification in the process.
During his time in the RFA he took part in multiple operations, from counter narcotics and disaster relief operations in the Caribbean, through to conflict situations in Afghanistan and Libya.
More recently, Ben has been working to achieve Class 1 Pilot status and learning the various elements of harbour management in order to pass the UKHMA harbour master certificate.
Ben is now relishing the opportunity to step into Rupert’s shoes. He said: ‘I felt very lucky to get the role of pilot and deputy harbour master at Portsmouth International Port.
‘I am immensely proud to have been offered the harbour master position. I have a passion for the city, the harbour and of course the football club.
‘I look forward to building on Rupert’s work, and helping to keep the harbour safe, clean, successful and prosperous, as we look to expand the business for the future.
‘It is the right time for me to step up and take on responsibility and put my mark on things after being deputy for six years.’
Gerald Vernon-Jackson, leader of Portsmouth City Council, which owns and operates Portsmouth International Port, said: ‘Helping to manage one of the busiest waterways in Europe for three decades is a huge responsibility.
‘On behalf of Portsmouth, I’d like to thank Rupert for his service to the port and the city.
‘Here’s to a well-deserved and happy retirement.’
Port director Mike Sellers added: ‘During his time at Portsmouth, Rupert has gone above and beyond to help promote the port, helping to secure our existing cruise calls alongside carrying out his statutory role with the utmost professionalism at all times. We all wish him well in his retirement.
‘I’m looking forward to working with Ben in his new role, which I have every confidence he will excel at. He takes on the position at a very exciting time for us as construction will soon commence on extending our cruise berth.’