From the early beginning, my priority was my crew

‘Day of the Seafarer’ is coming up soon. That day where we show seafarers our support and gratitude by shouting out loud that ‘Seafarers are Keyworkers'!
But this year, we thought we’d change the concept a little bit and instead call it ‘Week of the Seafarer’. Simply because we believe that seafarers deserve more than just a day to be acknowledged for their extraordinary and enormous effort and sacrifices during the corona pandemic. So, from Friday 19th of June and all the way to Thursday, June 25 on the real Day of the Seafarer, we are dedicating our platforms to pay tribute to seafarers who are experiencing extra-long voyages and are missing home and loved ones. And to all other seafarers who are simply awesome because they make the world move every day.

This is the voice of Captain on board LESSOW SWAN, Blazej Bakalarczyk:

"The last few months were challenging for all of us. As I signed on just two days before the lockdown, it was a bit crazy. So, for the first few days, we were adapting to a new situation. We had to do it quickly to do it safely. From the early beginning, my priority was my crew.

From the beginning, all of us had been in lockdown on board as there was no possibility of shore leave as many countries closed completely down. In this situation, I was trying to keep my crew in the best possible mood to stay happy and satisfied - and it was a challenge!

Some of the things that had been very important was communication with the families. So, what we tried to do was to supply good internet, and when we are in port to make video calls and be online.
Some of us like to participate in SEA HEALTH & WELFARE sports activities, especially my sparring partner Kasper - the junior engineer. Our mutual motivation always keeps us in good mood and creates positive energy.

I was really trying to find out how to keep good spirit on board. One of my small hobbies is baking - so from time to time I was trying to please my crew with some sweets and spoiled diets of few guys including myself.

Our company Unitankers also support us with prices for bingo and some extras for us. So, we managed to make few dart tournaments and try to spend a lot of time together.

I believe we manage to stay with positive energy until the end of my contract and I hope that all guys are very happy.

Wishing all seafarers a great day ahead. Stay safe! HIGH FIVE TO ALL