The S/S Hestmanden arrives in Aberdeen, celebrating 80 years since VE Day.
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On a remarkable day in Aberdeen, observers were treated to the sight of the S/S Hestmanden, a nearly 200-foot warship, gracefully entering the harbor. This visit is part of the Liberation Convoy, a month-long journey across the North Sea, aimed at commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
The S/S Hestmanden is one of five Norwegian vessels participating in this significant project, marking a poignant moment in maritime history.
A journey of remembrance
Historian Ragnhild Bie shared with The Press and Journal that this is the first time the Hestmanden has left Norway in 60 years.
The ship has made stops at various ports, including Lerwick, Stromness, and Kirkwall, where nearly 10,000 visitors have taken the opportunity to board and explore its storied past. Now, the people of the north-east have the chance to delve into the 114-year history of this remarkable merchant cargo ship.
A living museum at sea
During a guided tour led by Ragnhild and the ship’s captain, Hallvard Klungtveit, it was revealed that this is likely the first time the Hestmanden has docked in Aberdeen since April 1944, during World War II. Captain Hallvard noted the ship’s impressive navigation skills, stating, “She knew her way in, she was steering perfectly, and we were met by dolphins.” Visitors were already exploring the vessel, soaking in the rich history and the beautiful weather.
The Hestmanden holds the distinction of being the only preserved Norwegian cargo vessel that participated in convoys during both World Wars. Currently, it operates as a floating museum, open to the public during the summer months in Norway. Captain Hallvard emphasized that the ship is more than just a static exhibit: “This is a living museum. We have people living onboard, we have food cooking in the galley, we have heat in the engine room. She’s alive.”
Preserving maritime heritage
With a dedicated crew, the Hestmanden undergoes maintenance during the winter months, ensuring that its original equipment and engine, built in Scotland in 1911, remain intact. Ragnhild explained, “We try to keep everything as original as we can, all of the equipment and the engine. We just have to update the radios and electronic maps to be safe and secure.” Each year, volunteers contribute approximately 18,000 hours to keep the ship operational, a testament to the commitment to preserving this piece of maritime history.
Fuelled by diesel since the late 1940s, the Hestmanden consumes around 280 liters per hour, making it an expensive vessel to maintain. However, the experience it offers to visitors is invaluable. From the wheelhouse to the sailor’s cabins, and the lounge for first-class passengers, guests can immerse themselves in the ship’s history, exploring various displays that recount its storied past.
Connecting past and present
One notable section of the ship is dedicated to the Shetland Bus, the perilous route the Hestmanden traversed during World War II. This route was used to smuggle soldiers, secret agents, and freedom fighters between Nazi-occupied Norway and Shetland. Ragnhild remarked, “For many Norwegians, Scotland became a home away from home.” Captain Hallvard expressed hope that visitors leave with a deeper understanding of this history, particularly the stories of young sailors who served during the war.
Early in its life, the Hestmanden earned the nickname “the lucky ship” after surviving an attack by a German bomber that failed to hit its target. Ragnhild recounted, “They dropped several bombs but they all missed, so Hestmanden has been called ‘the lucky ship’ since.” The ship is open to the public this week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 am to 5 pm, inviting everyone to experience its rich heritage.
Ragnhild concluded, “Aberdeen and Norway still have a very close connection today. We’re honored to come here and continue that relationship. It’s been so much fun having school children and visitors onboard. Hopefully, we’ll be able to come again – sooner than another 80 years!”
