Remember the sailboat rescue in April last year?
A news article was published last year, just a week after the rescue and the news ended up in USA as well as New Zeeland and Europe. We never thought something as human as a rescue would go viral. At the same time we can see the contrast when a modern sailboat meets an 18th century ship, it is a bit comical.
On the 25th of April, off the coast of France just after 4 pm, a distress call was sent by the MRCC regarding a sailing vessel that had lost its rudder and was drifting. Being the closest ship to the sailing boat, Götheborg answered the call.
This story has been in newspapers in the USA, as well as in New Zealand and Europe, and the interest has been huge. Just when the storm had passed, we received happy news in an email from Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus stating:
“For showing very good seamanship in the English Channel, the ship will be awarded 10,000 SEK.”
We were invited to a ceremony yesterday (on the 7th of May) in Stockholm to receive the award. Of course, we sent our officer on watch at the time, Marielle Cocozza, who took the distress call, and our bosun, Dave Farrall, who threw the line over to the sailboat. The rescue, as well as this award, is an honor to us and we are happy that Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus have been around since 1750's to encurage to a good seamanship and to spread positivity within the Swedish shipping. When we first told our officer the news she responded:
“We were just doing our duties; no one should ignore a call for help. This award is great, but for us, the fact that we were able to help is most important.”
Dave, reacted in a similar way and and continued on the question whether he was nervous about missing the boat when throwing the line:
“At this point, I was not mixing emotions with work. I was not really thinking about anything else other than assisting the vessel by throwing.”
Thankyou to Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus for a fantastic day in Stockholm and for all the work you do in spreading joy and pride within swedish shiping.
The words from the crew on board the sailboat are just as rewarding for us:
“Dear commander and crew of the Götheborg, your kindness and generosity have shown that your ship is much more than just a boat. It embodies the noblest values of the sea, and we are honoured to have had the chance to cross your path and benefit from your help. We thank you again for everything you have done for us. Sincerely, David Moeneclaey (skipper of the sailboat Corto)"
Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus, with roots from the 1750s, conducts extensive grant operations within Swedish shipping. The foundation helps sailors in need and old sailors with poor pension. Seafarers in accidents can get emergency help. The foundation contributes to the high quality of training for crew and officers by supporting maritime high schools and naval officer schools. The students' studies are facilitated with scholarships and grants.
https://www.sjomanshus.se/
The East Indiaman will become part of a public experience center at Masthuggskajen.
Greencarrier and the City of Gothenburg have agreed on their ambition to create a long-term home for the East Indiaman at Masthuggskajen. The goal is for the ship to play a central role in a new historical experience center, planned for completion in 2031, and to help create a more vibrant waterfront promenade near Järntorget.
THE FRIENDS OF THE EAST INDIAMAN GÖTHEBORG INVITE YOU TO A WONDERFUL EVENING 19 MARS 18:00
During the evening we will be joined by Mats Berggren, who during the construction period represented the Swedish Maritime Administration as a determined and persistent inspector, and Marie-Louise Edholm, who took part in building the rigging, has sailed with the ship, and has been responsible for the maintenance of the rig. You will gain insight into traditional craftsmanship, material choices, and the many challenges involved in combining historical authenticity with modern safety and operational requirements. If you were involved during this period, perhaps you have a story of your own to share. We would love to hear it! About halfway through the lecture, coffee and pastries will be available for purchase. All proceeds will go directly toward the re-rigging of the ship. Registration is free of charge. Please register by emailing: vanner@gotheborg.se A warm welcome! The Friends of East Indiaman Götheborg Association