My name is Tushar Sadashiv. I've spent over 25 years at sea, a journey that's been both good and tough. What this profession teaches you very quickly is that you can't wait for the right moment. "The job must be done the right way, at the right time." Delays can cost lives. There's no scope for postponement.
Decision-making becomes second nature in this line of work because lives, equipment, and time are always at stake. And when you consistently make the right calls, leadership takes notice. With experience and the right mentors, that ability sharpens. I believe in continuous improvement and approach each day with the mindset of doing better than the last.
What's Changed Onboard
In the earlier days, there was much more dedication from the crew. Maritime training was often too theoretical, and there was limited practical exposure. While we have come a long way, I feel systems cannot be changed continuously without a deep understanding.
The Incident I'll Never Forget
There was a time I had to urgently sail on a mini bulk carrier; the vessel had a serious technical issue. A faulty fuel tank valve led to fuel contamination. There was no manual valve, no double segregation, and the diesel oil tank got contaminated. It caused a full engine blackout.
As we investigated, we found that a non-standard valve was missing. A 3-way cock was required to ensure proper segregation. We needed first-class approval to rectify the design issue.
What Keeps Me Grounded
I love to read. I especially love Marathi literature. Vapurza by V.P. Kale is a favourite; it captures experiences, daily sentiments, and routines beautifully. I've always believed there's something to learn from others' stories. "Do your homework before doing any work", that's another lesson I hold close.
How Communication Has Evolved
There has been such a drastic change in communication. 25 years ago, letters were our only way to stay in touch. Families waited weeks. Radio communication happened once every 2–3 days. Satellite calls cost $2 a minute and were only used in emergencies.
Then came limited data services, where you could only send a text. But in the past 2–3 years, onboard Wi-Fi has finally improved. It's still slower than onshore, but it's a world of difference.
Looking Back
I feel satisfied with how far I've come. I can truly say, "Dreams have been achieved." I just hope that opportunities, whatever they are, match a person's knowledge and talent. As for me, I'm open to any opportunity where I can put my experience to use—I'm ready.
