KNYSNA NEWS - For Naiguel Keswarts (23), the commands on the parade ground at Training Ship Knysna were never just marching drills. They were the first strokes of a chart that would carry him from teenage cadet to the wheelhouse of a charter catamaran.
Keswarts' ascendance began when he joined the South African Sea Cadets at Training Ship Knysna in 2018 as an eager young cadet with saltwater in his veins and a hunger to learn.
Two years later, in 2020, he was promoted to officer cadet. While still serving with the unit, he completed his skipper's courses, laying the technical groundwork for the career ahead.
"The Sea Cadets encouraged me to push myself. Every course I completed opened another door and gave me more confidence in my abilities," says Keswarts.
As an officer, he stepped into demanding roles: first as catering officer during onboard camps, then as divisional officer of the quarterdeck division. Those positions taught him far more than logistics and administration.
"They taught me responsibility, leadership, and how to genuinely look after a team. You quickly learn that people are relying on you.
It taught me accountability and how to make decisions under pressure. The training wasn't only about boats, but about character. The discipline and standards expected of us have stayed with me throughout my career."
After his officer tenure, he worked as a junior officer and sailing instructor. That hands-on experience was a natural extension of the seamanship and ethos first instilled at TS Knysna. Today, he serves as skipper of the Skyfall, the flagship vessel of Heads Explorer Charter Catamaran on the Knysna Lagoon.
Tested by fire
In 2023, his training was forged in crisis. A yacht caught fire and, in the chaos and smoke, Keswarts acted with the clarity of someone who had internalised emergency response procedures years earlier.
He knew precisely what to remove, what to deploy, and how to contain the situation before it spiralled.
"There wasn't time to panic. My training immediately kicked in. I focused on what needed to be done and followed the emergency procedures step by step."
Looking back, Keswarts believes the experience reinforced the value of the training he had received. "Those drills and exercises may seem routine at the time, but when a real emergency happens, they become invaluable," he says.
For his bravery and professionalism, he was awarded the Meritorious Medal by headquarters, the board of directors and senior officers of the South African Sea Cadets.
Though no longer actively involved with the unit, Keswarts carries its values with him daily. The same discipline that once kept divisions in perfect step now keeps passengers safe and operations running smoothly on the water.
"The Sea Cadets played a huge role in shaping the person I am today. It taught me to work hard, respect others and never stop learning."
Charting the next horizon
Keswarts says his ambitions remain firmly pointed seaward.
"I'm totally focused on accumulating sea time. My immediate goal is to complete my advanced maritime qualifications, which will help position me for larger vessels and greater responsibilities in the industry."
He also has a message for the cadets currently following the path he once walked.
"My advice is simple: take every opportunity that comes your way. The skills and experiences you gain in the Sea Cadets can take you much further than you imagine."
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