‘Gratitude really shines through’
The gesture of the KNRM volunteers is greatly appreciated, Martijn noted. “When the crew sees that, they are very enthusiastic. The gratitude really radiates from it. Many people think it is a very nice gesture. They are often surprised that someone actually comes to them to bring something.”
As soon as the KNRM arrives at one of the ships, a basket comes down from the ship along the side. That’s where the Christmas stollen goes. “Then the basket goes up again from our boat… and then there is someone who is very happy, puts his hand on his heart and says ‘thank you, thank you’.”
“That just gives a good feeling. That’s what we do it for. We even got a present in return, they quickly grabbed something and put it back in the basket.”
Announced visit
Although there appears to be no danger lurking, the KNRM does indicate in advance via the VHF radio that they are giving a Christmas present. “And you often notice that on such a ship they wake up the captain or ask for permission.”
Martijn: “Look, it is safer here in Europe than in many other places in the world, but those ships also come to areas where it is less safe and where you can think of piracy if a boat suddenly passes by.”
Normally the KNRM only comes to accidents, but today they were along the water for a different reason. “We were also there to bring something fun.”