NDR in Hamburg reported on 14 January 2023 that the operators of traditional ships are looking for new volunteers. "We need young talent in all areas, for all historic ships - and the harbour railway," said Claus Liesner, Chairman of the Board of the Hamburg Maritime Foundation (SHM). The foundation is keenly aware that there are only a few German seafarers left. "After their active service at sea, many former seafarers have continued to be actively involved on our ships in the past," said Liesner, but there is an increasing lack of new recruits. "From engine drivers to deckhands to ship's command, we are looking for volunteers - for all of our ships," said Liesner.
Passengers or visitors get involved
Most of the successes in the search were achieved through personal contacts and direct approaches from interested passengers or visitors. As a result, more and more young people have become involved in a wide variety of areas on all the ships. Engineers, club chairwomen and a boat builder also supported the foundation's work.
SHM's traditional ships winterised at Bremen's quay in the Hansa Harbour. Photo: SHM
SHM: Historic ships in HafenCity and the Hansa harbour
The Hamburg Maritime Foundation was established in 2001. Like numerous other foundations and associations, it looks after the preservation, restoration and operation of historically valuable ships, quay sheds, harbour cranes and port facilities. The foundation's fleet includes 13 historic ships, including sailing ships, a tugboat, a general cargo ship and a steamship. It also includes vehicles from the historic harbour railway that are worth preserving. The Sandtorhafen harbour in Hafencity and the Bremer Kai jetty in Hansahafen serve as home ports for numerous traditional ships.
SHM: Open day on 30 April 2023
"The many volunteers are the foundation's most valuable asset," said Liesner. Organised in company associations, the members are responsible for the maintenance and operation of the historic fleet of ships. Whether in the engine room, on deck or on the bridge - the volunteers are trained according to their personal interests and skills. Previous knowledge is not required, but is welcome. As a reward, there are trips on the historic ships at the harbour birthday or the Cruise Days. At the open day on 30 April 2023, interested parties can get to know the ships and crews at the 50er Schuppen.
Sailing harbour of the Mürwik Naval School. Photo: K.Klages
Tradition of sailing
Traditions are also upheld in the German Navy. More than 14,500 officer cadets have been trained on the Navy's traditional ship, the "Gorch Fock", since it was launched in 1958. The training for the cadets before their first deployment on the "Gorch Fock" takes place at the Mürwik Naval School (MSM) in Flensburg. In addition to the powerboat training, three practical modules of military sailing training (MSA) must be completed on the navy's own sailing yachts. Enthusiastic sailors are always being sought as boat captains for this MSA as well. The only requirement is a navy sailing licence, as the MSA is not an end in itself. Its main purpose is to teach the cadets nautical basics and to familiarise them with some of the fleet's standards, as far as possible. At the same time, you will receive further training in practical leadership skills.
Anyone who would like to support the MSM in its mission is welcome to contact the MSM's sailing officer by e-mail: [email protected]
Source: NDR, SHM
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