Meet Ian Poppenhagen

Meet Ian Poppenhagen

How long have you worked on the Tangaroa?

I joined the ship in Norway in 1991 and haven’t found my way off it since!

What is your job?

1st Mate.

What does a typical day involve?

I start at 7am and go till 12noon, and then re-start at 8pm and go through to midnight. I do paperwork and other jobs when not in the bridge.

What do you enjoy the most?

All the different work types that we cover.

What’s the least enjoyable aspect of your work?

Being away from home!

Do you get seasick? Any tips for not getting ill?

I don’t think I could work at sea if I was sea sick. Tips: cold water and fresh air. Don’t think about it, a lot of people make themselves sick by thinking about it.

What is your favourite memory from working on the ship?

I can’t say, there are just too many.