Windermere Lake Cruises appoints first ever female skipper for iconic ‘steamers’

27 year old Dawn Jackson has become the first woman in Windermere’s history to take on the role of skipper on the lake’s historic ‘steamers’.

Dawn, who joined Windermere Lake Cruises full-time nine years ago, has just been appointed ‘Master of the Ship’ following a rigorous series of interviews and practical tests set down by the Maritime Coastguard Agency. It means she becomes one of eight staff who can take overall responsibility for the company’s three flagship vessels; MV Tern, MV Teal and MV Swan.

Dawn will be working predominantly on Teal, which carries more than 530 passengers and is the largest ‘steamer’ ever built for Windermere. A member of the National Historic Fleet, the vessel also had the honour of welcoming Her Majesty the Queen and H.R.H The Princess Royal on board just 12 months ago. Now, Dawn will oversee the ship’s seven crew members and will ensure it runs smoothly on a day-to-day basis.

Originally employed as an ice cream seller, Dawn’s dad also had a long career with Windermere Lake Cruises and she has been closely involved with the boats all her life. She has worked her way up to the new role, working most recently as a Mate Engineer, and even had her wedding reception on board Teal last year.

John Woodburn, Operations Director for Windermere Lake Cruises, says, “It’s tremendous to announce Dawn’s appointment, which will see her take overall responsibility for the safety and smooth running of the Lake District’s most iconic vessels. It’s always good to see staff working their way up through the ranks and of course, as the first ever female skipper for the ‘steamers’, it’s a particularly important milestone. Her new role is well-deserved!

Dawn adds, “I love working on Windermere, right in the middle of the Lake District, and I’m so proud to be doing the job I do. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of being at the helm – the fantastic views, the people I work with and the fulfilment of helping to give visitors to the lake a great day out.”

Dawn was recently interviewed by Lakeland Radio about her new role. You can listen to it below or by clicking here.