Welcome to Beyond the Engine room: The Sea-Going Life of a Maintenance Fitter.
In this podcast, we dive deep into the incredible stories of Rob, a seasoned maintenance fitter who has spent years traveling the globe aboard massive seafaring vessels.
Rob’s journey is full of grit, adventure, and all the unexpected moments that life on the open water brings.
From tackling heavy machinery breakdowns in the heart of the ocean to adapting to life in far-flung ports, Rob’s experiences capture the essence of life at sea.
Each episode will bring you stories from a different part of the world.
Anchorage to Victoria: An Alaskan Adventure and Drydock Diaries
In this episode of Beyond the Engine, Rob shares a captivating account of his journey from the UK to the rugged beauty of Anchorage, Alaska, to join the iconic Pacific Princess. Listeners will feel like they’re along for the ride as Rob describes the breathtaking descent into Anchorage, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vast wilderness.
Once aboard, Rob dives into the unique experience of sailing along the Alaskan coastline, where towering glaciers, lush forests, and abundant wildlife set the stage for an unforgettable voyage. From humpback whales breaching beside the ship to the ethereal blue of the glaciers, he brings the magic of Alaska to life.
The story takes a technical turn as the Pacific Princess reaches Victoria, Canada, for her scheduled drydock. Rob provides an insider’s perspective on the meticulous planning and coordination involved in transitioning a cruise ship to maintenance mode. He shares vivid accounts of the work in the shipyard, from routine repairs to the unexpected surprises that always seem to arise during drydock.
Throughout the episode, Rob introduces the cast of characters who made the journey memorable:
5 Dec 2024
From Miami to Norfolk: The Drydock Adventure of Rob’s SGM
In this episode Rob takes listeners on a behind-the-scenes journey of his time as a Sea going maintenance (SGM) aboard the P&0 Sky Princess. The story begins in bustling Miami, where the ship was bustling with life, ready to transition to its scheduled drydock in Norfolk, Virginia.
Rob recounts the logistical challenges of coordinating such a move, sharing insights into the preparation needed for transitioning a ship from full operation to maintenance mode. Along the way, he paints vivid pictures of the people who made the journey memorable.
One of the most dramatic moments of the episode involves a serious issue with the steam lines. Rob dives into the harrowing tale of discovering a fault that threatened to disrupt operations—and how the team worked tirelessly to resolve it. From diagnosing the problem to executing a creative, last-minute fix, it’s a story of teamwork, quick thinking, and a bit of shipboard ingenuity.
Throughout, Rob reflects on the unique camaraderie of life at sea, the challenges of balancing leadership with the technical demands of the job, and the bittersweet feeling of leaving Miami’s warm shores for the industrial hum of Norfolk’s shipyards.
30 Nov 2024
On the Radar: A Fitter's Tale in 1980s Northern Ireland
In this episode, Rob takes us back to 1980, where he worked as a fitter on radar systems at a tightly secured RAF base in Northern Ireland. He shares fascinating insights into the high-level security measures in place during the height of The Troubles, giving listeners a glimpse into life behind the wire.
Amid the seriousness of military operations, Rob recounts a lighthearted moment involving a surprise rugby match that turned into an unforgettable event—and how a new pair of boots played an unexpected role in the story. Tune in for a mix of history, humor, and personal memories that capture the unique atmosphere of life on an RAF base during a turbulent time in Northern Ireland’s history.
Perfect for fans of military history, personal stories, and a touch of nostalgia.
27 Nov 2024
The San Fran to Acapulco SGM Chronicles 1991
In this laugh-out-loud episode of Beyond the Engine Room, Rob takes us back to his SGM days aboard the Sky Princess as it sailed from the misty bays of San Francisco to the vibrant beaches of Acapulco.
With the Pacific breeze whipping across the decks, the crew faced long hours, constant repairs, and the occasional burst pipe—but that didn’t stop Rob from injecting some fun into the chaos.
He shares the tale of a cheeky $20 bet with a crewmate that saw him racing off to Senor Frog’s in Mazatlán for an extended “lunch break,” revealing his winning move in the most hilarious fashion. We’ll also hear about a particularly rowdy crew bar night, the challenge of navigating work amidst unexpected fiestas, and how the allure of tacos and tequila always seemed to pull the team ashore.
Whether you’re a cruise ship enthusiast or just love a good story of mischief on the high seas, this episode dives into the camaraderie, hijinks, and occasional chaos of life below deck. Tune in to find out how Rob and his crew kept the ship running—and themselves laughing—all the way to Acapulco.
23 Nov 2024
Bombay to Athens Adventure on the Island Princess 1993
Step aboard the P&O Island Princess with Rob as he recounts his unforgettable SGM (Sea Going Maintenance) voyage from Bombay to Athens.
Along the way, Rob shares tales of life at sea, the camaraderie of the crew, and the unique challenges of ship maintenance on the move.
From navigating cultural treasures to navigating barbecue disasters (hello, “The Flying Pig”), this episode is a delightful mix of humor, history, and adventure on the high seas!
23 Nov 2024
From Portland to the Sun-Kissed Mexican Coast
Set sail with Rob as we take a nostalgic trip back to 1991 for an unforgettable sea-going maintenance mission. Starting at the Swan Island Shipyard in Portland, Oregon, Rob joins the P&O Fair Princess on a journey down to Los Angeles and then onward to the sun-drenched shores of the Mexican Riviera.
This episode takes you through the ship’s voyage to stunning destinations like Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlán.
Along the way, hear about life onboard, the camaraderie with his coworkers, and the vibrant experiences that made this trip truly memorable. Whether you’re a cruise enthusiast or love tales of adventure, this episode is your ticket to the past
21 Nov 2024
Intro to season 2
Step into the world of grease, grit, and globetrotting in Beyond the Engine Room, where Rob takes you on a lively journey through his career as a Marine Fitter from the UK. This isn’t just a podcast about engine repairs; it’s a deep dive into the unique and colorful life of a man who’s seen it all from the decks of ships to bustling ports around the world.
Hear tales of unforgettable characters Rob has worked alongside—some inspiring, others outright eccentric. Explore the diverse ports of call he’s visited, from vibrant city harbors to hidden coastal gems. Above all, laugh along with Rob as he recounts his most humorous (and occasionally misfortunate) adventures in foreign lands.
Whether you’re a maritime enthusiast, a traveler at heart, or someone who loves a good laugh, Beyond the Engine Room is your ticket to an entertaining and nostalgic voyage. Set sail with Rob—stories this good are worth the listen.
19 Nov 2024
Below Deck: Tales from the SS Canberra
Join us as Rob takes us back to his days working aboard the iconic SS Canberra in the 1980s and 1990s. From grueling engine room shifts during shipyard refits to unexpected adventures on the German Autobahn, Rob shares the highs, the lows, and the hilarious moments in between.
Hear about darts matches with the locals in Bremerhaven, a culinary encounter with Goanese curry, and the art of surviving long shifts with good humor (and maybe the occasional company-funded meal).
It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at life below deck on one of Britain’s most beloved liners. Don’t miss this dive into maritime memories!
17 Nov 2024
Anchorage to Vancouver , Sailing the Alaskan coast 1990
Step aboard the Sea Princess in 1990 and join Rob, a marine fitter, as he shares his adventures sailing the rugged Alaskan coastline. Starting in Anchorage, this journey takes us through charming coastal towns, where the wild beauty of Alaska meets the daily grind below deck.
Rob recounts his time exploring the unique ports, the camaraderie of the crew, and the unforgettable moments at sea. The trip concludes in the vibrant city of Vancouver, where work gave way to adventure and discovery. Don’t miss this tale of hard work, breathtaking landscapes, and life on the Sea Princess.
16 Nov 2024
From Hong Kong to Singapore via the Islands
In 1991, Rob embarked on an unforgettable South East Asia journey aboard the Pacific Princess. Setting sail from the bustling port of Hong Kong, the ship cruised southward, gliding through turquoise waters and weaving through islands along the Malaysian and Indonesian coasts.
Each stop offered a new adventure, from lush jungles and bustling local markets to serene beaches dotted with fishing boats. Rob immersed himself in the rich blend of cultures, sampling exotic flavors, and experiencing the unique blend of traditions, sights, and sounds of these tropical destinations.
As the ship sailed on, the sea itself became an endless source of wonder—vibrant sunsets, distant volcanic islands silhouetted against the horizon, and the gentle roll of waves under a warm, humid breeze.
Finally, after an exploration-packed journey, the Pacific Princess entered the port of Sembawang in Singapore, where it would undergo a transformation in drydock.
There, Rob witnessed the impressive operations of the shipyard, watching as the vessel was tended to with meticulous care. It was a fitting close to a remarkable journey, where his adventures onshore were matched only by the sights and experiences along the storied maritime route.
12 Nov 2024
Journey from the Hawaiian Tropics to Vancouver's Coast
In this episode, we follow Rob’s 1990 journey aboard the P&O Pacific Princess, where he served as a marine fitter, navigating the technical demands of sea-going maintenance while traveling to the stunning Hawaiian Islands and on to the port of Vancouver.
In Hawaii, Rob caught glimpses of paradise as the ship docked, with its lush green landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant harbors—all briefly enjoyed between shifts spent ensuring the ship’s mechanical heart ran smoothly.
Arriving later in Vancouver, Rob experienced a stark contrast to Hawaii’s tropical warmth. Though his stay in Vancouver was short, the city’s bustling port, set against its dramatic mountain backdrop, left a lasting impression. This episode captures Rob’s unique perspective on these two destinations—one rich with island allure, the other with urban and natural beauty.
8 Nov 2024
Rob’s Caribbean Footprints from Sky Princess 1990
Join us as Rob recounts his unforgettable SGM experience working as a fitter on the P&O Sky Princess while touring the stunning Caribbean.
In this episode, Rob dives into the vibrant island life, literally, as he takes on SCUBA diving for the first time, exploring colorful reefs and marine life beneath the warm Caribbean waters.
Not one to miss a chance for some competition, Rob also laces up to play football for Team Great Britain in a friendly match, sharing stories of camaraderie and rivalry against the locals and other crews.
Along the way, he’s captivated by the beautiful islands, with their lush landscapes and sunlit beaches, and he shares memorable encounters with locals who welcomed him with open arms.
From sandy shores to seaside bars, each island brought a new adventure, a fresh story, and plenty of laughs. Don’t miss this episode of Beyond the Engine Room as Rob relives these Caribbean highlights and the magic of life at sea.
8 Nov 2024
From the Big Apple to Miami Vice on the Sky Princess 1990
In this episode, Rob takes us back to 1990 for a lively journey down the Eastern U.S. coast aboard the P&O Sky Princess. Starting in New York City and cruising south to Miami.
Rob shares colorful tales of the unforgettable characters he met along the way, from his crewmates Doc, Ten till Two, Smudger, and Wyndham to local cops, quirky dockworkers, and eccentric passengers.
With a mix of humorous encounters—like the playful "arrest" in Savannah—and memorable moments on and off the ship, this episode brings the vibrant ports and lively characters of that era to life.
5 Nov 2024
On The Welsh Princess in Fall River USA 1988
In this episode, Rob recounts his unforgettable journey as he flies from the UK to Fall River, Massachusetts, to join the private yacht Welsh Princess.
He is ready to dive into the work below deck but quickly finds that there’s more to this trip than just fixing engines! From navigating the cultural quirks between UK English and American English to hilarious misunderstandings with the crew.
Rob’s got stories that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even appreciate a bit of British slang. Tune in to hear about life on the water, the unexpected challenges of cross-cultural communication, and the unique camaraderie that only the open sea can inspire.
5 Nov 2024
Winter on the Kiel Canal in 1986
In this episode of Beyond the Engine Room, Rob takes us back to a bitterly cold winter of 1986, where he found himself in Rendsburg, Germany, at a shipyard on the banks of the Kiel Canal.
The mission? Preparing the Stena Seatrader for her next journey and keeping her in peak condition through brutal northern temperatures and challenging conditions.
Rob shares a vivid look at life behind the scenes—working alongside the engine room crew, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the intricate machinery that kept the vessel running.
From braving the biting winds of the German winter to adapting to the quirks of the Seatrader, this story captures the heart of life aboard a working ship in one of Europe's coldest winters. Join us as we explore the camaraderie, the hard work, and the spirit that thrives beyond the engine room.
4 Nov 2024
Steam, Ports and The QE 2 in 1984
In this episode, Rob takes us back to 1984, when he embarked on a life-changing journey that combined hard work, sea travel, and European adventure. Join us as he shares his story of setting out from London to join a cruise ship in Barcelona and the fascinating—and often gritty—experiences that followed. From the challenges of keeping things running smoothly in the sweltering boiler room to navigating port life in iconic cities across Europe, Rob gives an insider’s view into the world of cruise line maintenance and life below deck.
Tune in to hear tales of sweaty days in the engine room, the camaraderie among the crew, and Rob’s favorite European ports of call, each with its own unique charm and adventure. This episode offers a glimpse into the unseen side of cruise life, complete with sea spray, steel, and the excitement of new destinations around every corner!
4 Nov 2024
Floating in Mobile, Alabama 1984
In this episode, we travel back to 1984 when Rob took on an adventurous sea-going maintenance job that took him from London to Mobile, Alabama. Boarding the Stena Seatrader, Rob joined the crew for a unique journey across the Atlantic, handling the ins and outs of maritime life as he worked alongside a skilled team.
Once they arrived in Alabama, the ship docked for dry-dock repairs, giving Rob the chance to get up close and personal with the gritty and vital maintenance needed to keep the vessel seaworthy.
Tune in to hear Rob's stories of life at sea, navigating shipboard duties, and experiencing life in Mobile's vibrant port. From the thrill of ocean travel to the hands-on work of dry dock, it’s an episode filled with maritime memories and Rob's reflections on an unforgettable job.
4 Nov 2024
First Voyage: A Young Lad's Journey on the M/V Galini 1983
In this captivating episode, follow young Rob as he embarks on his first sea-going maintenance adventure aboard the M/V Galini. Boarding the vessel in Dunkirk, Rob steps into the unknown, ready to take on the challenges of life at sea. He shares the thrill of setting sail, the camaraderie with fellow crew members, and the hard work of maintaining the ship as it navigates across the notorious Bay of Biscay. As he learns the ropes—both literal and figurative—Rob discovers the beauty and danger of open waters. His journey reaches its peak as they finally dock on the historic island of Malta, where he experiences the satisfaction of his first successful trip and the anticipation of adventures to come.
4 Nov 2024
"The Apprentice’s Journey: Cardiff to the World"
In 1975, sixteen-year-old Rob begins his apprenticeship as a fitter and turner in a dry dock in Cardiff, South Wales. Step into his shoes as he navigates the gritty world of shipbuilding, from learning the ropes in the noisy, bustling workshop to discovering the quirks of life in the shipyard.
This podcast follows Rob's early days of hard work and humorous mishaps, guided by seasoned tradesmen with tales of adventure and challenge from their years at sea. Inspired by these stories, Rob finds himself dreaming of a future beyond the docks—a life on the open ocean, traveling the world as part of a Sea Going Maintenance crew.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Contact Beyond the Engine Room: Rob’s SGM stories.
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Beyond the Engine Room: Rob’s SGM stories.?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
