I was not on watch duty for this port, so I was able to relax for 2 days, do some swimming, have some nice food and enjoy the sun. I also felt the first drops of rain since we've been in this area, which was quite strange after such a long time without any rain at all.

Heading for the sea
"Good morning HNLMS Evertsen, it is the 10th of July, 05.00 hours, rise and shine!” Time to get up, as we're heading back to sea at 08.00 hrs.

In the command centre, we have to get ready to sail. That means that the bridge has to be ‘rigged up' with binoculars and books. We must also make sure the communications system is working properly and test the ‘man overboard' buttons. The latter is particularly important, because if someone does happen to fall overboard we have to take action immediately.

At the command centre, we also make sure all the necessary radar and sensor systems are operational. Several exercises have been scheduled for today, to keep everything up to scratch. In the afternoon, we practise a precautionary landing. This is not a normal landing; it means there is something wrong with the helicopter. The ship must be ready to receive the helicopter within 12 minutes. That means clearing the stern and having everybody standing by to assist, for instance to fight a fire if the helicopter crashes.

The exercise went well and we had an instructive day.

Nanda behind her weapon.

Photo: NLD Ministry of Defence

Firing

For the second time during this trip, the marines on board organised a firing session for the crew. I got to fire several different types of weapon, which was really cool. My favourite was the P90, which is more my size: small and not too heavy.