An Interview with Captain Abhi Singh
Aboard the Seven Seas Mariner, as we are midway through the Regent World Cruise 2025.
I had the privilege of interviewing Captain Abhi Singh aboard the Seven Seas Mariner a few mornings ago. When I spoke to the Captain about the possibility of an interview, he readily agreed, looked at his watch, and said, “How about in twenty minutes?” Therefore, neither of us had time to prepare! An excellent not-plan!
He met Sherpa and me on the bridge, gave us a tour, and introduced us to the officers. Then, we sat down for the interview while Gabriele served us excellent cappuccinos. “The best coffee on the ship is on the bridge,” Captain Abhi claimed. He was correct.
Captain Abhi’s answers are edited slightly for brevity…and because I didn’t take notes while we talked. Our interview veered quickly into a conversational tone, and while Sherpa did scribble down a few quotes, we had a bit of a back-and-forth free-for-all. As our time came to an end, Captain Abhi insisted on switching roles and interviewing me. Fun!
When you are out and about, mingling with the passengers, I often hear them ask, “Who’s driving the ship?” Please answer that question once and for all!
Captain Abhi laughed. “If I had a penny for each time someone asked me that, I’d be rich!” He introduced me to the second officer, Roza, who was piloting the ship at that moment. Then he explained that there is always an officer in charge, and each officer works a four-hour shift. “But I am always available, 24/7,” said Captain Abhi. “My quarters are next to the bridge, and I’m always available."
During your career, what has been your most challenging day at sea?
“On a different line, as a first officer, we were in Antarctica and had two days of 80-100 mph winds. The ship was twisted in half and sustained substantial damage. We were all wearing life jackets. I even called my wife to say, “We don’t know what might happen?”
What has been your most rewarding experience?
The Easter Island landing. “If I’m passionate about a place, I want to share it. Passion is contagious.” I really like challenges, and this was a challenge. I wanted everyone to experience Easter Island. I moved the ship 20 miles from Easter Island at night so that everyone—my crew—could get enough rest to recharge for the second day.”
“Safety is paramount, but right up there is our guests’ experience.”
A FEW FAVORITES:
Favorite podcasts: Diary of a CEO. Any podcast focusing on self-improvement.
Favorite foods aboard the Mariner: Spaghetti and meatballs, hummus, Eastern Mediterranean dishes, “anything that’s simply prepared; if I don’t recognize the name, I don’t usually order it.”
Favorite foods when home: “Simple foods. We enjoy cooking and eating at home. We aren’t fancy.”
Favorite ship: The Mariner. This is what a ship should be like. Larger ones can be too much like a fancy hotel, but I really love this ship. The Mariner was my first ship as a Captain.
Favorite ports of call: Southeast Asia, Ho Chi Minh City, Antarctica.
Tell us about a favorite time from when you were young.
When I turned 18, I wanted to get away. I signed on to work on a crude oil tanker. I was at the bottom of the totem pole, scrubbing decks and running errands, and it was the best time of my life. I was finally on a ship. It was what I dreamed of doing.
What hobby or interest do you enjoy that might surprise people who don’t know you well?
Meditation. I like to meditate for half an hour in the morning and evening. It's a way for me to get calm and recharge, especially if we’ve had difficulty docking or leaving a port. You might not believe this, but I’m an introvert—I need quiet time, alone time, to recharge.
What is your favorite place to go for a weekend? When I’m home in the UK, my wife and I enjoy taking the kids tent camping. Our five-year-old tells us how to set up the tent.
Where would you like to take your family for a two-week vacation? Go to Bali. Get an Airbnb or a villa, not a hotel. The kids need room to run. The kids are interested in wildlife and marine animals, so I’d take them snorkeling. If we had childcare, my wife and I would enjoy a quiet evening, complete with great food and wine. We’d take advantage of all the spa services and have relaxing massages. “Massages are like meditation.”
Imagine you are 100 years old. What is the one regret you do not want to have? “That I haven’t traveled enough.” He added, “And it’s important to me that my children will love to travel, too.”
I love this! What a unique and engaging opportunity! He sounds like such a wonderful being- perfect Captain for this adventure!
So interesting, Bo. Thanks for interviewing the captain and for sharing this!