A Haven Harbour dockhand does far more than catching lines, manning the fuel dock or ensuring that the pool is of correct chemical balance. They, in addition to their managing dockmasters, are the day-to-day face of our operation. Here's a glimpse into the events of their typical day on the job.
Week and weekend mornings begin with the opening of facilities, point of sale, cleaning of heads and showers, vacuuming and chemical balance of pool and daily upkeep of grounds and docks.
Requests for ice, fuel and directional assistance accompany help in the yard and on the docks to ensure that the needs of our guests, both annual and transient, are fully met.
Lunch breaks are taken dockside in case of incoming boats taking on fuel or vessels in need of a set of hands at the slip.
Dockhands come to memorize their daily routines with each holding at least one favorite aspect of the job.
"Meeting new people is most definitely my favorite part" said Christian, a first-year dockhand at Haven Harbour Marina. "This job is different from others I've had in the past, and for good reason."
Some afternoons are busier than others. Playing catch-up with trash, recycling and head cleanliness are top priorities when an increase in transients make for hectic shifts.
At Haven Harbour South, Shane is lending his previous dockhand experience before finishing a final semester at Salisbury University this fall. He will earn a dual bachelor's degree in biology and marine and environmental studies from both SU and University of Maryland, Eastern Shore. Shane hopes to launch a career in fields such as marine animal rehabilitation.
HHM dockhand and life-long Rock Hall resident Zack joined the dockcrew this spring, the third brother in his family to do so. He enlisted in the United States Army shortly after high school and is now beginning a career in physical therapy. He is enrolled in online courses at Keiser University of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. with an end goal of earning his doctorate. Zack and his wife are expecting a baby boy this February.
Katie, a veteran HHM dockhand celebrating her third year on staff, is a recent graduate of Salisbury University. She will be furthering her education by attending the University of Maryland, Baltimore to pursue a master's degree in social work. Securing a relevant field placement has been her after-hours homework.
HHM Dockhand Christian has completed his freshman year at Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Md. He will be returning there later this month for the start of sophomore courses.
Each of our dockhands have begun their unique paths in life. These are their stories and contributions to the making of your Haven Harbour experience.
