MY FIRST TIME AT SEA

By Human Synthesis - T.Chr. - 08 November 2024

At the age of fifteen in 1948, I joined the Norwegian merchant fleet on board ss Norefjord, one of the last steamships, for a seven-month voyage to East Africa and Madagascar.

Life at sea was both demanding and exhilarating. The vast expanse of the ocean became my playground, and the ship, my home. I quickly adapted to the rhythm of life on board, the rolling waves, and the ever-changing horizons. The crew became my family, a diverse group of individuals from different corners of the world, united by a shared passion for the sea. As a young apprentice, I eagerly absorbed the wisdom and skills passed down by experienced sailors.

They taught me the art of navigation, the intricacies of seamanship, and the importance of camaraderie in the face of adversity. I learned to tic knots, handle ropes, and climb the towering masts with agility and confidence. The steamship "ss Norefjord" became my training ground, and I relished every opportunity to prove my worth. From the bustling ports of Europe trough the Suez Canal, we sailed carrying cargo to Mombasa and Madagascar.

Later on, each voyage brought new challenges and experiences, testing my resilience and shaping my character. During those early years at sea, I witnessed the beauty and power of nature in its rawest form. Stormy seas and fierce winds reminded me of the forces that governed our existence, instilling in me a deep respect for the ocean's might. At night, under a starlit sky, I marveled at the vastness of the universe, feeling a profound sense of awe and insignificance.

But life at sea was not without its trials. I endured harsh weather conditions, sleepless nights, and moments of homesickness. Yet, the allure of adventure and the thirst for discovery propelled me forward. I yearned to explore distant lands, immerse myself in different cultures, and broaden my horizons. As I matured as a sailor, my aspirations grew beyond the boundaries of a single ship. I sought opportunities to sail on different vessels, navigate new routes, and challenge myself further.

I ventured into the world of tanker ships, cargo carriers, and even emigrantship from Europe to Australia, embracing the diversity of maritime life. Each ship I sailed on brought unique experiences and encounters. From the bustling ports of Hamburg to the tranquil islands of the Caribbean, I discovered the rich tapestry of human existence. I met people from all walks of life, exchanged stories, and formed lasting friendships that transcended borders and languages.

Following my compulsory 18 months of Navy service onboard the KNM Stavanger, I later passed the Navigation College Exam and became a 3rd Navigations Officer. I sailed on a total of II ships covering the Seven Seas. But amidst the vastness of the oceans and the diversity of cultures, my heart longed for a place to call home. A place where I could anchor my soul and find solace amidst the constant ebb and flow of life at sea. Having then ended my sea carriere as a navigations officer, I spent the years to 2003 in London and Norway as a travel executive, until I found my peace in the seaside resort of Ubatuba, Brazil.

This is just a brief overview, for the full story read my BOOK version titled THE FOUR LIVES OF SINBAD .