Port Elizabeth, New Jersey this morning.

Mr. Blair Simmons, 23, will spend six months at sea with Capt. J.G. van de Westeringh and the crew of the Oleander in order to gain experience he needs before he can take the exams for his First Mate's Licence.

Mr. Simmons spent three years at the Glasgow College of Nautical Studies as a cadet and qualified for his Second Mates' Licence at the end of last year.

He said he was studying for an unrestricted licence which would allow him to work on a variety of different vessels in any part of the world.

His duties on board the Oleander will include checking safety equipment, supervising container loading and manning a four hour watch on the bridge every eight hours.

Bermuda Container Lines' Mr. Robert Lewis said the experience offered on the Oleander would be invaluable and although she did not require a third mate, a position had been created to assist Mr. Simmons.

WELCOME ABOARD -- Oleander Captain J.G. van de Westeringh welcomes new crewman Mr. Blair Simmons.