After twelve months on an expedition, the Statsraad Lehmkuhl sailed into Bergen on Saturday, April 18. Its return marked the start of One Ocean Week and was celebrated with a spectacular public festival at Bryggen in good company.
Thousands of people had made their way to Bryggen in Bergen to witness the ship’s return and join in the effort to ensure a sustainable future for the ocean. Where the ship docked, a crowd awaited, along with music and celebrations both on land and at sea. There were shanties, sailors in the masts, and a great atmosphere along the entire quay in lovely weather. The public eventwas hosted by Stian Blipp. Joining him on stage were Bergen Bonanza, Berit Håpoldøy, David Chelsom Vogt, and Michelle Ullestad.
– A moment of pride
Mayor Marit Warncke welcomed the Statsraad Lehmkuhl home and highlighted the ship's significance for Bergen and for Norway as a maritime nation.
“We are celebrating a moment of pride, community, and deep connection between our city and the sea that surrounds us. Dear Statsraad Lehmkuhl, welcome home,” said the mayor.
She described the ship as a generous and prominent ambassador for United Nations Ocean Decade.
– All over the world, this ship has carried with it the story of a coastal town that has always lived in harmony with the sea and that takes responsibility. The Statsraad Lehmkuhl has taken an active role in the most important conversation of our time: How we can ensure a sustainable future for the ocean and for all life on Earth.
– An Important Invitation to the World
County Mayor Jon Askeland, who serves as chairman of the board for One Ocean Week, highlighted the ship's role as a catalyst for international cooperation.
“The Statsraad Lehmkuhl has been a very important ambassador and a calling card for many of our international guests. Now the fourth edition of One Ocean Week is kicking off, with over 200 events,” said Askeland.
He also highlighted the long-term goal that Bergen aims to host the closing ceremony of the UN Decade of Ocean Science in 2030.
– So we have to work smart, and everyone has to pitch in. Bergen showcases itself in a way that only Bergen can, with a festival, knowledge, and hospitality.
Minister of Culture Lubna Jaffery also took part in the celebration and described her return home as a very special experience.
“Today is a day of celebration. Our pride has come home. Standing here and seeing this sea of people, meeting the crew and everyone who has spent so many days and nights at sea, is truly special,” said the Minister of Culture.
Festival grounds at Festningskaien
During One Ocean Week, Festningskaien is transformed into a large festival area. Here, visitors can tour open ships, view exhibits, and experience demonstrations of technological innovations from companies in the region. The activities take place both along the quay and at booths inside the 166-meter-long cargo ship Trans Sol.
Amanda Drabløs brought her children, Oliver and Emil (pictured), to Festningskaien. The children had made small wooden sailboats after participating in the boat parade that accompanied the Statsraad Lehmkuhl into the city center.
“There were a lot of boats in the procession, and the fireboat was spraying water. We’re boaters and we’re definitely committed to taking care of the ocean. So it’s great to have events like this that are fun for the kids and give us useful information along the way,” says Drabløs.
His son Emil was clearly enthusiastic.
"It's a shame there's so much plastic in the ocean. Fish can die from it," he says.
Learning and Engagement for All Ages
At the VilVite tent, we met Anne Skretting, who told us that many people had stopped by to make creative sea creatures out of modeling clay and to see the traveling exhibit.
“I’m studying marine technology and am in my second year. That’s why I find this event especially exciting. It’s also a great way to raise awareness,” says Skretting.
Marine Benefits was also present at Festningskaien. The company insures over 200,000 seafarers in more than 120 countries.
"This is a great way to raise the profile of both the company and the industry," say Lasse Borge and Agne Bu.
Also in the audience was Sigrid Kvalvåg, who had come with Ståle Tråvik to witness the homecoming.
"It's nice to have a week like this in Bergen," says Kvalvåg.
She grew up on an island and had to rely on a boat to get to the mainland. Later, she worked in the aquaculture industry.
“That’s why I have a special interest in the ocean and in One Ocean Week,” she says.
