Falmouth Harbour Welcomes Ifor Pedley as New Harbour Master

Photo: Newly promoted Harbour Master Ifor Pedley has worked in the Falmouth Harbour team for the past five years. Photo Falmouth Harbour

Falmouth Harbour, one of Cornwall’s busiest ports, has announced the promotion of Ifor Pedley to the role of Harbour Master, effective from 1st August 2024.

Ifor takes over from Miles Featherstone, who has decided to take a career break after serving as Harbour Master since 2023. Ifor steps into the position with a wealth of maritime experience and a distinguished career that spans over five years with Falmouth Harbour.

A Career Steeped in Maritime Excellence

Ifor, who previously served as Deputy Harbour Master, brings a lifetime of maritime expertise to his new role. In 2023, he became one of the few professionals in the country to earn the UK Harbour Master Certificate, a prestigious qualification that recognises excellence in harbour management and safety operations. This certification, awarded after a rigorous eighteen-month process, is held by fewer than 45 individuals nationwide.

“Becoming the Harbour Master for my own home port is an incredible opportunity,” Ifor stated, reflecting on his promotion. He emphasized the challenges and rewards that come with overseeing the safety and operations of a harbour as dynamic as Falmouth.

Looking Ahead: A Year of Growth and New Challenges

The appointment comes at a busy and promising time for Falmouth Harbour. The port is set to welcome nearly 50 cruise ship visits in 2024, highlighting its importance as a key destination for both leisure and commercial maritime activities. Additionally, Ifor will oversee the arrival of a new £1.6 million Pilot Boat in September, a significant investment that underscores the harbour’s commitment to enhancing its services.

Miles Carden, CEO of Falmouth Harbour, expressed confidence in Ifor’s ability to lead, stating, “Ifor was already an amazing asset for Falmouth Harbour. I know he will pick up the baton and be a wise and inspirational leader for our Harbour Master team.”

A Deep Connection to Falmouth

Ifor’s connection to Falmouth Harbour runs deep. Having served in various capacities including Assistant Harbour Master for Operations and working on the Pilot Boats, he has been a part of the harbour community for over five years. His academic credentials include a Master’s Degree in Business, and he is also an accomplished yachtsman and scuba diver, with a lifelong affinity for the sea.

In his new role, Ifor will work closely with Miles Carden to manage the harbour’s marine safety management system while also serving as General Manager for Falmouth Pilot Services. Together, they will be recruiting a new Deputy Harbour Master to ensure the team remains at full strength.

A Future Anchored in Tradition and Progress

Falmouth Harbour, a statutory port authority with responsibility for key areas including the Inner Harbour, Penryn River, and parts of Falmouth Bay, operates under the standards set out by the Department for Transport’s Modernising Trust Ports initiative. The harbour is integral to the region, providing essential pilotage services across a wide range of locations, from the anchorages in Falmouth Bay to the Helford River and beyond.

As Ifor takes the helm, the Falmouth community can look forward to continued growth and careful stewardship of this vital maritime hub.

For more details on Falmouth Harbour’s operations and career opportunities, visit www.falmouthharbour.co.uk.

📷© James Bannister 2024

Photo: Newly promoted Harbour Master Ifor Pedley has worked in the Falmouth Harbour team for the past five years. Photo Falmouth Harbour