Sailing toward success: PLA welcomes four new Trainee Pilots

Our newest recruits, (L-R) Fraser Matthew, David Shaw, Carmelo Giannone, and Robert Hoyland, bring extensive maritime experience from a range of backgrounds within the shipping industry. As they progress through their intensive training, they will refine the skills required to safely guide vessels through the river’s busy and often demanding waters.

Fraser Matthew – Kirkcaldy, Fife

Fraser has spent the last 19 years at sea, beginning his career on cruise ships as a Cadet and Junior Officer before moving to ro-ro passenger ferries around the UK coast. Over the past decade, he has served as Chief Officer and Master on routes across the Irish Sea, the Scottish Islands, and most recently the English Channel between Dover and Calais.

Fraser pursued a career at sea because he wanted to drive ships, finding it both the most challenging and rewarding aspect of the job. Becoming a PLA Pilot offers him the opportunity to handle a wide variety of vessels on one of the world’s most famous waterways. He is looking forward to working with and learning from a team with diverse sea-going and non-seagoing backgrounds—though he certainly won’t miss battling against South-Westerly gales!

David Shaw – Falmouth, Cornwall

David began his maritime career at 17, joining the Royal Navy as a Rating in 2001 before transitioning to the Merchant Navy in 2005 as a Deck Cadet. He initially worked on container ships and bulk carriers before gaining experience on dredgers and anchor handlers. He later moved into the passenger sector, working with Saga Cruises from 2011 to 2016, followed by Thomson Cruises (later Marella Cruises) from 2016 to 2024, leaving as Staff Captain in January 2024. Since then, he has served as Mate at Red Funnel Ferries in Southampton.

David was drawn to the PLA for its diverse port operations and the challenge of handling different vessels. He was also motivated by the trust port’s purpose-driven approach, which aligns with his values. After 23 years at sea, he is eager to settle down and spend more time with family while taking on a role that demands adaptability and quick thinking.

Carmelo Giannone – Sicily, Italy

Carmelo began his career with Costa Cruises in 2012, progressing from Cadet Officer to First Officer during his 11-year tenure. He then served as First Officer on Princess Cruises.

Passionate about ship handling, Carmelo is eager to apply his maritime experience in a new, challenging environment. He looks forward to manoeuvring different types of vessels and expanding his skill set on the River Thames.

Robert Hoyland – Sheffield, Yorkshire

Robert spent four years as a Navigation Officer on 90m general cargo vessels before serving as Chief Officer on the same vessels for over two years. In August 2024, he achieved his Master’s Unlimited license.

Robert has always viewed pilots as some of the most skilled and professional individuals in the maritime industry. With a passion for ship handling and close-quarters navigation, he is eager to develop his expertise on the River Thames and become an expert in its challenging waters.