We thought you may like to know what some of our “old” team members are doing now – what have they been up to since they left Seafari? First to catch up with is Allan Laycock (or Maff as he was known!) – Allan is a true Easdale Islander having lived on the island since early childhood and regularly returns to visit his mum, Ghalia, who still lives on the island. So, here is what we found out…
ALLAN LAYCOCK
Allan in his days as Seafari crew.
What years did you work for Seafari Adventures?
2009 – 2012
In what capacity did you work for Seafari Adventures?
I mainly carried jerry cans [Agh the fuel cans ! – Ed] and folded waterproofs from memory! Three years working on front of house at the kit trailer and then on board as crew.
Allan on a charter trip to Islay and Gigha.
What is your favourite memory of your time with Seafari?
I only remember the sunny days [Always sunny at Seafari – Ed] and now wonder why summers are never the same… In the early days having autonomous control of the “Red Dingy” with a tiny 5hp engine and hopping on the last tour of the day when there was a free space. Spotting my first Minke Whale and Basking Shark was wonderful. Sharing heaps of happy moments with customers. Going through Grey Dogs at 48.2 knots on the way home from a Whirlpool Special. Whirlpool Specials. The pencil sweeties in the shop, I used to get a box every Christmas from Tony and Jess.
Did you ever fall in ? If so, details please!
No but witnessed more than one!
Favourite place on Easdale island?
Next to my mum! [Awww – Ed]
Allan showing off his spidey-skills.
Favourite bit of the Corryvreckan Wildlife Tour?
The Old Pier was always up there but it’ll have to be Grey Dogs and going round the back of Scarba towards the “Wall”, needed the right skipper though!
Allan showing off his wildlife guide skills, he assures us there were dolphins on the other side of the boat as well!
So, what have you been up to since leaving Seafari?
I graduated from university as a Naval Architect, worked in technical ship management with slightly larger vessels over the last 4 years and most importantly now live with 2 cats.
What are you currently doing?
I, like so many others, have unfortunately lost my job due to Covid but morale is high. In my last position I was completing inventory of Hazardous Materials surveys for ships and oil rigs due to be decommissioned and recycled, basically asbestos on ships.
Allan working at a shipyard in Turkey, same sunglasses though!
Many thanks to Allan for taking the time to catch up with us – keep an eye on this blog for your next “old crew” update!