Meet Our Masters:
Captain Esteban Romero
Having worked at sea for more than 15 years, Esteban Romero, Master of the Svitzer Nereid operating in St. Croix (U.S. Virgin Islands), practically has sea water running through his veins. He appreciates the different challenges of working at sea as well as the cultural exchange of knowledge that follows with working at different ports and countries.
Since joining Svitzer in August 2010, Esteban Romero has worked his way from First Deck Officer to Coastal Captain in tugs less than 500 GRT (gross registered tonnage) to being promoted Master of tugboats up to 3,000 GRT, sailing in international waters.
Today, Esteban Romero is Master of the Svitzer Nereid operating the Limetree Bay Terminal in St. Croix – a 34-million-barrel crude and petroleum products storage and marine terminal facility serving the Limetree Bay Refinery and third-party customers.
“I can’t imagine doing anything else – I love my life at sea, although it means being away from my family for long periods. Being a Captain is a big challenge and comes with a big responsibility. The safety of the crew onboard as well as their physical and mental well-being is my responsibility. Just as I am responsible for the proper functioning of the tug and complying with different standards and regulations,” explains Esteban Romero and shares the following advice for other seafarers that want to become a Master:
“It’s a life of sacrifice, but also one of many opportunities. If you want it, you can achieve it – you just need to try harder every time and make your work speak of your performance.”
Svitzer Caribbean is part of the Dominican Republic Cluster in Svitzer’s Americas Region. The Dominican Republic Cluster operates 21 vessels and services more than 12 ports on six islands.
