Chief Officer Nevisian Harry Yearwood
When the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Jewel of the Seas docked in Port Zante, Basseterre, St. Kitts for the first time on April 2, it marked a milestone moment for Nevisian mariner Harry Yearwood. Serving as the officer at the helm during the vessel’s arrival, Yearwood described the experience as the most memorable moment of his career so far.
The accomplishment is especially notable given that, although the Caribbean accounts for 34 percent of all global cruise travel, relatively few officers on cruise ships come from the region. For Yearwood, the event brought him one step closer to his long-term dream: to return to Port Zante someday as the Captain of a Royal Caribbean ship.
Early Life and Education
Harry Yearwood was born to Alastair and Clare Yearwood and grew up in the village of Westbury on Nevis. He began his education at Maude Crosse Preparatory School and later attended Lynn Jeffers High School, where his interest in maritime work took shape.
After completing high school, Yearwood enrolled in the first Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW95) course arranged by the Department of Maritime Affairs. The program, led by Chief Port Pilot Captain Ludell Harvey-Lloyd, introduced him to essential skills required for maritime careers. The STCW95 certificate is internationally recognized and mandatory for anyone entering the maritime industry.
Advancing Maritime Training
To expand his qualifications, Yearwood traveled to Fort Lauderdale, where he earned his 200 Ton Offshore Yacht Masters Licence. This certification allowed him to work as a mate aboard a 120-foot mega yacht for six months. Following that experience, he returned to Nevis and spent two years working on local vessels, including the fishing charter boat Sea Brat and the charter catamaran Caona.
These early roles helped him build valuable on-the-water experience before he decided to pursue further education. Yearwood then attended the National Maritime College of Ireland in Cork, where he completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Nautical Science.
Career with Royal Caribbean
With a strong foundation in maritime training and hands-on experience, Yearwood joined Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Over the past 13 years, he has served on several well-known vessels, including:
- Majesty of the Seas
- Adventure of the Seas
- Quantum of the Seas
- Radiance of the Seas
- Wonder of the Seas
Through dedication and consistent performance, he advanced steadily through the officer ranks. Today, he serves as Chief Officer, the third-highest position on the Jewel of the Seas. His recent role in guiding the ship into Port Zante reflects both his expertise and the pride of Nevisians who celebrate his achievements.
Looking Ahead
Yearwood remains committed to achieving his ultimate goal of captaining a Royal Caribbean vessel and returning to Port Zante in full command of a ship. His journey demonstrates how dedication, training, and passion can guide young people toward opportunities in the global maritime industry.
As he continues to build on his accomplishments, Yearwood serves as an inspiration to aspiring mariners across St. Kitts and Nevis and throughout the Caribbean.