BREMERHAVEN/HAMBURG – The air in the Bremerhaven shipyard hums with the purposeful clang of metal and the distant whir of machinery, but here, amidst the industrial symphony, it’s the quiet dedication of human hands that truly brings life to the scene. The majestic ‘Cap San Diego,’ Hamburg’s floating maritime monument, is undergoing its crucial quinquennial ‘Ship’s MOT’ – a 1.5 million Euro refit that ensures its continued seaworthiness. Yet, without the tireless efforts of 120 volunteers, this grand vessel, a symbol of German engineering and a cherished piece of history, would struggle to stay afloat.
A Dream Fulfilled: Gaby Liedtke and the Deck Crew
Among these dedicated individuals is Gaby Liedtke, a vibrant 65-year-old with a twinkle in her eye and a passion for the sea that runs deep in her Hamburger veins. For two and a half years, Gaby has been an integral part of the ‘Cap San Diego’s’ volunteer crew, fulfilling a long-held dream. “When I retired, I immediately sent my application email,” she recalls with a smile, describing how a visit to the ship 15 years ago sparked a desire to be part of its operational heart.
Gaby’s team is responsible for the intricate wood and metal work, a task she approaches with the precision honed during her career as a dental assistant. In the coming days, she will meticulously dismantle a wooden staircase, unscrew every strip, sand the wood, and apply fresh varnish. “Working with men has always been a lot of fun for me,” she says, noting that as the only woman in the 40-strong deck crew, she was immediately accepted. “They quickly saw that I could handle the sander.” For Gaby, the privilege of being part of the ship’s voyages and the camaraderie on board are invaluable rewards.
The Heartbeat of the ‘Cap San Diego’: 120 Volunteers Strong
Ann-Kathrin Ruess, the managing director of the ‘Cap San Diego’ operating company and one of the few permanent employees, underscores the indispensable role of the volunteers. “Many tasks are not possible during ongoing operations,” she explains. The 120 volunteers are involved in every aspect of the ship’s maintenance and operation: on the bridge, in the engine room, on deck, in the shop, in the archive, and in IT. “Without the volunteer crew, the ship could not go on voyages,” Ruess emphasizes, adding that new volunteers are always sought, especially those with valid nautical papers.
The ‘Cap San Diego’ is more than just a ship; it’s a living museum that draws approximately 120,000 visitors annually. It’s a place where history comes alive, where a high ropes course and escape rooms now offer modern attractions alongside its rich heritage. The ship, the last surviving vessel of a series of six identical general cargo freighters built in 1961/62 for the Hamburg Süd shipping company, has been a protected monument since 2003. Its preservation was secured by Hamburg’s decision to purchase it, preventing its scrapping after only two decades of service due to the advent of container shipping.
Funding and Future: A Collective Effort
The financial upkeep and restoration of the ‘Cap San Diego’ are a continuous challenge. Income generated from admission fees, the ship’s shop, and events, along with donations, flow directly into its maintenance. Public funding from the City of Hamburg and the federal government also plays a crucial role. Recently, 750,000 Euros in public funds were approved for the current shipyard stay, allowing for significantly more items on their extensive wish list to be addressed than initially anticipated.
The ‘Cap San Diego’ is expected to remain in Bremerhaven until the end of March. After its comprehensive refit, it will return to its traditional berth in Hamburg. Just in time for the Hafengeburtstag (Harbor Birthday) on the second weekend of May, the ship will once again set sail for guest cruises, its continued journey a testament to the enduring spirit of its dedicated volunteers.
The ‘Cap San Diego’ is a powerful reminder that some treasures require more than just financial investment; they demand the heart, soul, and tireless efforts of those who believe in their enduring value.
Source: https://www.tageblatt.de/Nachrichten/Cap-San-Diego-in-der-Werft-Ohne-Ehrenamtliche-geht-nichts-727235.html
