New Deputy Pilot in Town

A maritime pilot is a navigational expert. Many pilots spend months studying for rigorous entrance exams, after acquiring years or even decades of experience on the water. In Florida every March, candidates with the same dream of sailing as a pilot have reported studying over 1000 hours for the 5-hour set of exams!

As a deputy pilot in the Port of Palm Beach, Captain Ryan will train to safely navigate ships in and out of port, acquiring local knowledge in learning how to dock and undock ships regardless of weather conditions.

Captain Ryan looks back on her career in the maritime industry, embracing the challenges. “Being a woman at sea isn’t always easy, especially being a small one. I’ve learned to work smart, not hard and to gain respect by using my intelligence and explaining things or seeking out why we do the things we do, instead of the “because that’s the way it is” mentality. For instance, I don’t need to wrestle a cargo hose into position, I use my brain power to properly position a crane.”

Like many others who have made it to the top, Captain Ryan credits her mentors for her success. One in particular, Captain Bill McCarthy created an inclusive environment. “He was one of the first to fully accept me as a woman on board and supported me to express my ideas and thoughts. This created a foundation of knowledge and confidence to continue on in my career at sea.”

Captain Dana Ryan is not only an accomplished mariner, but also a mentor to women in the industry and a role model at Women Offshore. We are proud to know her. Congratulations Dana on achieving your dream of becoming a maritime deputy pilot in Florida!