Having a dynamic career of more than 30 years with comprehensive experience in formulating strategic plans, directing marine operations, consistently increasing productivity, and introducing new systems & procedures leveraged on excellent people management skills and an ability to manage change with ease; Capt Santanu Ghosh has about 12 years of experience in heading the Crew Manning Operations for Bulk Carriers, Tankers, FPSO, Gas, and Dry Cargo Vessels from Mumbai in crew management and operations. He now heads Tristarr Maritime and Shipping Private Limited as its Director. Tristarr recently inaugurated their new office of about 5000 square feet with traditional pooja on 16^th October.

In these many years of experience, Capt Ghosh feels the biggest operational challenge is Getting the Right Candidate for the job.

Miss Delphine Estibeiro from Marex Media caught up with Capt Ghosh where he shared his insights on the future plans, challenges and current state of manning to name a few.

Congratulations on the new office space and Tristarr completing 10 years. How does it feel?

It feels great to have a fresh restart.

Tristarr Maritime and Shipping Private Limited was founded in Mumbai, India in 2012 by highly experienced Master Mariner with expertise of 25 years in shipping business; to respond to the growing demand for higher quality human resources for maritime industry, in terms of reliability and efficiency costs. Based on qualified well trained staff, Tristarr is recognized by all local/international organizations.

We are looking forward to our partnership with a Global Brand like Pacific Basin.

Tell me more about your team in Mumbai…

We have an excellent team in Mumbai, which is well-experienced and has been associated with this industry for many years now. Their passion and hard work have paved the way for a better and brighter future.

How do you see Tristarr growing in the next 5 years?

With this partnership between Tristarr and Pacific Basin, we see levels of growth going forward. We intend to increase the Indian seafarers’ pool and continuously thrive to work in that direction of placing more and more Indian seafarers on our client’s vessels bringing more stability and trying to add value to the maritime fraternity. Our prime customer focussed business model slogan aligning with Pacific Basin is With you for the long haul and we are only looking for long-term partnerships.

What is your view on the current state of ship manning sector in India?

Currently, the ship manning sector is extremely challenging. Especially in the Bulk carrier sector. Sometimes it’s very difficult to get the right candidate. But we are very positive about the Indian seafarers and their choice to join an ownership brand like Pacific Basin.

What is your biggest operational challenge today?

As I expressed earlier, the biggest operational challenge is getting the right candidate and placing them on board, post-COVID as there are still many countries like China, Malaysia etc that continue to follow COVID isolations pre-joining and post-signing off vessels.

Another huge challenge we are facing is the issuance of the US/Canadian/Schengen Visas as there has been a gigantic backlog of applications. This is creating challenges for our day-to-day activities of operations.

What is your message to the young cadets?

To the young Turks, I would say learn hands-on along with theoretical knowledge and focus on your careers more diligently. This is a career that can change your life and bring stability to you as well as the lives of your families. You must train hard, study hard, must have Officer like qualities (OLQ), and learn the basics, which will help you in your future prospects. I wish each one of you a brighter future and good prospects as you are the backbone as our future officers.

Capt Ghosh believes that spending quality time with family and friends can be a big mood booster. However, if you are looking for an instant stress buster then playing with your pet can give you quick relief.

We wish Capt Ghosh and his team good tidings in all their future endeavours.

Marex Media