Sea safety first

No one was taking any chances when they sent me out on the French training ship Belem, so before I embarked on the adventure, I enlisted on a day-long course run by Lisa Fitzmorris and Cpt Martin D'Arcy, maritime safety training specialists for Sea and Shore Safety Services. They have been in the business for 23 years and train everyone from scientists on research vessels to crew on commercial lines and children in local schools.

My course was compact and focused on everything from lifejackets and signalling beacons to the correct life-raft entry techniques and how to best stave off hypothermia. Personal and offshore survival, first aid and crisis management lessons are all taught with equipment in hand and their certificate is recognised by the International Maritime Organisation. A wise choice for anyone taking to the sea, even if you are only invited by friends for no more than a day trip. See seaandshore.ie or tel: 01-2955991.