My first adventure at sea – Of trains, letters, and life on board

This morning, on October 9, 2015, it was time for me: Cast off – but first, to the train station!

I took the train heading towards Hamburg, where my new temporary home awaited – a ship!

Even before the adventure truly began, my family completely threw me off balance. The night before, they handed me a gift that left me speechless (and that rarely happens!): My own logbook – along with twelve lovingly written letters, one for each month, plus extra letters for the holidays. Each had their own words – and suddenly, I had something in my eye… or maybe in both.

Upon arrival in Hamburg, I went aboard the ship. And what should I say: I was welcomed so warmly that I almost forgot how many decks there actually are (Spoiler: too many, when you’re not familiar yet). The rest of the day consisted of two things – searching for paths and getting lost along the way.

The crew is super nice, the work clothing generously provided (and surprisingly comfortable – who would have thought?), and the impressions… simply overwhelming.

By late evening, it was time: Off to the adventure! We set sail from the Hamburg harbor, heading: open sea. The first day at sea on October 10, 2015 was perfect for letting everything sink in – and discovering that my sense of balance seems to be on vacation.

So the new adventure can begin – with salty air, new paths (hopefully found soon), and plenty of stories just waiting to wander into the logbook.