Boatfolk stories: Kevin Richardson

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Kevin Richardson and I am a Berthing Master, maintenance person and help manage health and safety at East Cowes Marina. I am an islander (AKA a CorkHead) and have worked in the watersports industry for over a decade, coaching paddlesports, sailing, yachting and powerboating, before joining the marina team.  

When and why did you choose to work at our marina? #

I worked as a Berthing Master at weekends for two years before Dennis Volley (long-term customers will remember Dennis!) retired and I was offered a full-time position.

Tell us one thing that most people don’t know about you?

My main passion is taking part in Motorsport – I have a collection of classic MINIs as well as other cars that I like to use in entry level motorsport around the county including, Sprints, Hillclimbs, Autotests and rallies.

When and how did you get into the marine industry/boating?

I have always enjoyed Sea Kayaking. Although these crafts are small, you still need to have a good understanding of tides, weather and navigation, especially if you cross the Solent. One thing led to another and then anything that could be enjoyed on the water became of interest to me.

What is a typical workday like?

A marina has a complex and varied infrastructure and my day always starts with finding out what needs to be checked, maintained or fixed. One day I could be a carpenter, another day a plumber, sprinkle in a good helping of customer service and a dollop of health and safety and my job is as varied as you can get. That’s why I enjoy it so much.

What’s a common question you get from customers?

“You must have the best job in the world?” – they’re not wrong! I know it looks like we just swan around the marina chatting to customers, and just like a swan, we are paddling hard to keep everything in tip-top condition.

What’s been your fondest memory as an employee of ours?

I don’t have a specific memory as such, I just love how our team can always work together to find a solution. From time to time, things happen, and it’s how we deal with them that makes me proud to be part of the team that I am. It’s a testament to our friendship, training and professionalism.

What is your biggest achievement to date and why?

I completed an IronMan Triathlon, which entailed a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and then run a marathon (26.2 miles). I completed it in just over 12 hours. I would love to try again and break my 12-hour record, but I am not as young as I used to be!

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Waste money, not time.

Boating can be deemed an expensive hobby/sport, what would your tips be for someone who is looking to get afloat?

Lots of people think big when it comes to boats, however, great experiences come in small packages. Kayaks, canoes and SUPS allow you to explore places big ‘gin palaces’ can only dream of. The island is littered with little creaks and inlets to explore.