Arrival day to Rotterdam

The day started at 05:20 for midships. It was really important that we were ready, on deck at 05:40, because five minutes after that, we would hoist anchor. Or that was the case for the others; my friend and I were in the kitchen. It was nice to be inside and listen to music instead of the rattling from the anchor. We had over one and a half hours of doing nothing after we were done preparing the breakfast. When the watch was over at 08:00, I went back to sleep for some hours. You really need to sleep every chance you get, otherwise you need to function on roughly 6–7 hours of sleep. Personally, I can’t do that!

When I stepped on deck after my nap, I was met by a significant sight. We were lying right beside the city in a beautiful bay. I saw big blooming trees, remarkable sailing ships, wonderful buildings, and people all around us! A couple of hours later, we were allowed to get off the ship. When we walked around, I really noticed the difference between this harbor and the ones we’ve visited before. Rotterdam is a big city and a place where the whole world has a chance to meet. As Europe’s biggest seaport, it isn’t weird at all. The streets were lively, restaurants and cafes filled with people from all different countries and ethnicities. The way things were ornamented, how the place was built up, the recognizable stores and climate reminded me of Swedish summer in Gothenburg. It made me realize how many joyful moments I have to look forward to. First off, the following days of our visit in Rotterdam, which I assume will give me memories for life—like every other harbor—and second, coming home again. I feel like most of us have been feeling a bit more homesick lately. I can assure you, that applies for the adults in command as well—especially some of them…

Something I really miss about being home is being able to make decisions on my own again and not risk getting my phone taken or landing probation if I do.
For example, being able to decide when and what I want to eat for breakfast. Or not having to clean toilets and dirty showers after grown men if I don’t want to.

I really do enjoy my time here, and I have realized so much about others and myself. It feels so weird that this is the last stop before home. Everything we have been through, every emotion you’ve felt, all the new things you’ve learned and seen, can be compared to what otherwise happens in a year! That’s what amazes me the most about this unique experience!!!!!

Karin