Four weeks of leave are coming to an end, and soon it will be time for Captain Robert Larsson to board the vessel Botnia Enabler again for another four-week shift.
“One of the great things about working at sea is that when I’m off, I’m completely off, and when I’m working, I can focus entirely on the job. I really enjoy that arrangement,” says Robert Larsson.
This year marks 30 years since Robert Larsson was hired by Wallenius Marine. He started as a temporary deckhand and has taken on several different roles within the organization over the years. Today, he serves as the captain of one of the world’s largest ice-rated ConRo vessels – Botnia Enabler.
“I’ve never felt the need to change employer. I’ve always felt genuinely comfortable with both the company and my colleagues. This is a place where I’ve been consistently challenged and have grown professionally.”
Leading with Trust: Captain Robert Larsson on Openness and Empowerment
Robert Larsson describes a workplace with a culture of open communication, something he has embraced in his own role as captain.
“I believe in openness, where we listen to each other. I try not to micromanage things — by showing trust in people, they get the opportunity to grow in their roles.”
For Robert Larsson, creating a safe work environment is essential, something he believes is possible when the right conditions are in place to work on safety issues together.
“I think respect, trust, and humility are important qualities in a leader.”
Over his 30 years at sea, Robert Larsson has seen and experienced many beautiful places and adventures — but also difficult moments.
“It is often an exciting and challenging job where you must take quick decisions. You feel a great sense of satisfaction when you succeed at something, and the opposite when things don’t go as well. That’s when I really appreciate the support I get from my colleagues and the organization.”
He also points out that it can be challenging to be far away from home when personal matters arise, once again expressing gratitude for his coworkers.
“Over 30 years, you encounter some setbacks, and Wallenius has always been fantastic, providing unwavering support. It’s easy to stay in a place where you enjoy the people around you — in the end, that’s what determines whether you want to stay or not.”
What would you say to someone considering a career in the maritime industry?
“Just do it! You’ll never regret it. The experiences you gain are invaluable. When you’re out at sea, you must be solution-oriented — there’s no one to call to fix things for you. It’s a valuable life lesson. There’s a strong sense of fellowship on board, and by working and living closely together for long periods, you build strong and lasting relationships,” says Robert Larsson.
