Manchester Maritime

Joseph Furness
Founder & Principal Consultant | Master Mariner

Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service, 2026
Awarded by the UK Department for Transport in recognition of his contribution to seafarer education, safety and industry outreach.

Joseph Furness is a Master Mariner and senior maritime professional with 12+ years' experience across LNG, container shipping and ultra-luxury cruise operations. He currently serves as Staff Captain with Scenic Group, supporting the Master aboard Emerald Kaia, a 120-metre ultra-luxury expedition yacht. His career includes senior leadership aboard ARC-7 icebreaking LNG carriers, Northern Sea Route operations, global container shipping and newbuild vessel delivery.

Through Manchester Maritime, Joseph provides independent maritime consultancy and expert advisory services, drawing on extensive practical experience in shiphandling, navigation, Arctic operations, vessel commissioning, safety, compliance, risk management and operational leadership. He has undertaken consultancy work for organisations including Witherby Publishing Group and the ProSapient expert network.

Alongside his seagoing career, Joseph is an established maritime communicator and public speaker. As @JoeTheSailor, he has built a global audience of 400,000+ followers, helping bridge the gap between the maritime industry and the wider public through education, storytelling and industry outreach.