MUSCAT: Shabab Oman II joined over 250 vessels from 18 countries in the Den Helder Sailing Festival 2017 in the Netherlands, which will last till Monday. The parade of ships showcased the maritime heritage of the countries participating in the event.
The Sultanate’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, His Highness Sayyid Mohammed bin Harib al Said, welcomed Shabab Oman II when it arrived in at the Dutch port of Den Helder. He hailed the ship’s crew and also toured the facilities of the ship. He also praised the crew of Shabab Oman II for taking part in this festival and their role in enhancing the relations between the Sultanate and the Netherlands.
Rear Admiral Rob Kramer, Deputy Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy, also hailed the participation of Shabab Oman II. “Oman really has a wonderful sailing ship and the presence of Shabab Oman II is very important as it strengthens very old friendship with the Sultanate of Oman.”
The mayor of the city of Den Helder said that this city is keen to participate on such festivals, which aims to unite people and share the maritime heritage of participating countries.
The Dutch people are proud over the participation of Shabab Oman II in this festival as this vessel was built in the Netherlands.
Lt Colonel Ali bin Mohammed al Hosani, Commander of Shabab Oman II, said: “The Shabab Oman II will participate in the many events that are taking place in the festival and is keen to convey the Sultanate’s message of friendship and peace. The ship has clocked more than 6,000 nautical miles since April.”
A Dutch visitor said, “No doubt it is a wonderful sailing ship. I will visit it every time the ship visits the Netherlands. I waited here on the marina for 5 hours until the arrival of the ship. With its diverse cultural heritage and culture, it encourages me to visit the Sultanate of Oman, that ancient Arab country with rich history and civilisation.”
As part of the sailing festival, Shabab Oman II crew toured streets of Den Helder with the accompaniment of musical instruments. At the end of the march, the deputy mayor of Den Helder delivered the best ship crew award.
Since its arrival at the Dutch port, more than 10,000 people visited Shabab Oman II. The huge turnout reflects the reputation and prestige of this ship in Europe.
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