Pathfinder History

Pathfinder came into being in 1992, when changes in the shipping line Safmarine were being implemented. Captain Richard and Mrs Barbara Hellyer, employed by Safmarine for a number of years, started the Passenger Service from home, in Southampton, operating the 4 “Big Whites” as the container ships were known.

These ships were eventually withdrawn from service, and the replacement ships did not have passenger accommodation, ending an era in the cargo ship passenger service, the quality of which will not be seen again. We were left with one ship remaining in the service with Passenger accommodation, the Dal Kalahari. This was also a replacement ship, and was brand new at the time. The Dal Kalahari carries 6 passengers in 3 cabins, on the route UK to South Africa and back, with a regular service schedule.

Grimaldi offer regular services between the UK and the North East continent, the Mediterranean, West Africa and Buenos Aires in South America. The ships carry 12 passengers , and depart on a weekly basis from the UK. Passengers are normally able to travel with their motor bike, motor car or motorhome.

The Fred Olsen passenger ships are of a traditional build and standard. The approximately 900 passenger complement makes for a smaller community on board, when compared with the 3000 passenger sized ships.

AMA Waterway river cruises are of a 5 star nature, and travel the waterways of Europe using nearly new ships. This is a fascinating way to see the continent, and is well worth trying. We are a small business and will make every effort to get you the passage which you want, at the time you want to travel. Please contact us via the “Contact Pathfinder” page.

Email: pathfinder@safemariner.co.uk