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The Cayman Islands Cadet Corps’ maritime detachment, known as the Sea Cadets, will now be trained aboard the MV Miss Gwen – a motor vessel named in honour of late Caymanian seafaring matriarch, Ms Gwendolyn Bush. The vessel, valued at CI$75,000, was commissioned during a formal ceremony at the Cayman Islands Coast Guard base on Friday, 17 May 2024 by Her Excellency the Governor Mrs Jane Owen and Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Sabrina Turner. 

The commissioning is a notable achievement for the Cadet Corps and its ongoing efforts to provide cadets with cutting-edge training, education, and future-oriented opportunities. MV Miss Gwen will be instrumental in the CICC’s training programme for its maritime detachment – a joint initiative with the Cayman Islands Coast Guard (CICG). Through this programme, Sea Cadets – high school students between 11 and 18 years – will learn maritime communication and engineering skills such as seamanship, ropework, naval customs and practices, scuba diving, sailing and boat maintenance.

During her remarks, Minister Turner explained that “the commissioning of this vessel marks another key milestone in our strategic vision for creating public safety career pathways for our cadets. We are proud of the strategic partnership between the Cadet Corps and the Coast Guard, which was recently formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership will offer Caymanian youth exceptional rewarding maritime experiences, building their knowledge base, technical skills sets and passion for public service.” 

The commissioning of MV Miss Gwen aligns with the Government’s mandate to continually strengthen the Cayman Islands’ resilience and national security. It also demonstrates the ongoing thrust to provide unparalleled opportunities for cadets and all Caymanians. 

Minister Turner also shared fond memories of the late Miss Bush, noting her contribution to the Cayman Islands’ maritime industry. “The impact of Miss Gwen’s contribution to the maritime industry will surely stand the test of time and her legacy serves as an inspiration to all. It is only fitting that this vessel bears her name,” she added.

For his part, CICC Commandant, Colonel Brathwaite said, “This evening is not just about sea cadets, it is not just about commissioning of our vessel, it is about collaboration across various entities and your presence this afternoon is testimony to that which we have been able to achieve. We have a mandate to ensure that we find activities to occupy our young people so that they can build and develop their skills for the future.” 

Governor Owen shared Colonel Brathwaite’s sentiment, saying that, “it’s fantastic to see all our sea cadets here today. They are a great hope and strength for the future of Cayman. Thank you to all the supporters of this endeavour to train and equip our sea cadets to support maritime heritage into the future.”

As the Cayman Islands Coast Guard continues to set the standard for maritime training in the Cayman Islands, the MOU with the CICC coupled with acquisition of the vessel will ensure that cadets receive the comprehensive, hands-on training necessary to lead with competence and confidence.