Gary recently joined Australia Geographic Editor-In-Chief, Chrissie Goldrick to record an episode of the series “Talking Australia” podcast which features intimate conversations with extraordinary Australians. Tune in via the link below to hear Gary share his interest in the history of early maritime explorers and his role as Senior Master of the Coral Expeditions fleet.
Gary’s passion for marine history and the art of sailing replica ships has led to the fulfilment of a unique career which as seen him Captain historic vessels such as Captain James Cook’s legendary Endeavour (originally built in 1764) and more recently an exact replica of the lesser-known Dutch ship Duyfken (originally built in 1595), the first to reach Australia. Throughout this episode Gary talks about some of the upcoming once-in-a-lifetime experiences you can share with him, and explains what it feels like to travel back in time sailing historic ships.
Australian Geographic Podcast With Captain Gary Wilson
More About our Master Of Fleet – Gary Wilson
First went to sea 1981
Cadetship with BHP 1983-87
Masters certificate 1993
Sailed in 58 different vessels on worldwide voyages and have held command of 10 of them.
Types of ships – specialised in traditional square-rigged sailing vessels, also bulk carriers, general cargo ships, passenger vessels, icebreakers, lighthouse/buoy tenders.
First joined Coral Expeditions (Then called Coral Princess Cruises) in 2011, as Master of Oceanic Discoverer
Career highlights – sailing in 16 square-rigged vessels all over the world, including a rounding of Cape Horn in brigantine Eye of the Wind; serving in world’s last seagoing paddle steamer Waverley; serving in last Royal Mail ship St Helena, voyage to Antarctica in icebreaker Aurora Australis; commissioning Master of new expedition passenger ship Coral Adventurer; promotion to Senior Master of Coral Expeditions.
Job Description: As well as one of the regular Masters of Coral Adventurer, Gary is part of the company Management Council as Senior Master, involved with company planning, organisation and training.
A Typical Working Day: Gary’s day starts at 0400 on navigation watch on the ship’s bridge, through to 0800 and then again from 1600 to 2000. The rest of the day is spent supervising all aspects of the ship’s operation, consultation with the Chief Engineer, Chief Officer, Purser and Expedition Leader. Gary also spends time with the passengers each day and of course there is always plenty of paperwork!
Favourite Cruise Moment: Taking Coral Adventurer into a very tight anchorage in Mesemta, Indonesia the first time ever that a ship had been in there.
Favourite Cruise Port: Banda – Spice Islands. Always a great welcome there from the Kora Kora war canoes, friendly people and so much history.
Tips for passengers: Take advantage of as many excursions and lectures on offer as possible. The areas that we visit are some of the most interesting and spectacular on Earth; there is so much to see and learn about.
Master Gary Wilson no longer works for Coral Expeditions as of October 2020. However, his knowledge, experience, and passion has made a significant impact.
