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/
