Alongside our team of professional shipwrights and sailors, EcoClipper welcomes occasional and regular volunteers to help us get Tukker ready for her first sailing season. Today, Bart is joining the blog to tell us about his experiences on Tukker as a volunteer, his advice for other volunteers joining EcoClipper, and the importance of good socks.
Why did you want to volunteer on EcoClipper?
I found EcoClipper whilst I was doing some research on more sustainable ways of transport. I liked the concept of EcoClipper so I contacted them to see if I could contribute in any way- partly too get to know this work field and see if it is something I would like to work in a partly to contribute to something sustainable.
Describe your typical day on our boat.
Jorne and Arik told me that they were getting the boat ready to sail in March and that they could use some help with painting, sanding and all kinds of jobs, and that’s what I’m doing now. A typical day starts with a peaceful breakfast at 7.00 AM. At 8.00 AM, we all start working. I usually help somebody else, but sometimes I get my own job. We have a lunch break from 12.30 to 13.30, and everyone eats lunch together. We continue working until about 17.00. We have a communal dinner in the evenings, and time for gezelligheid, or just chilling out.
What are your favourite parts? Your least favourite? My favourite part is the huge amount of stroopwafels we eat. My least favourite is the constant fear of dropping my keys or phone in the water.
What would your advice be to other prospective volunteers? No advice needed- definitely come give it a try! Make sure your phone is charged when you get to Den Helder so you can find the boat.
What’s one thing a new volunteer should remember to pack? Lots of warm clothes that can get dirty- and definitely thick, warm socks!
Thanks Bart! On behalf of the entire Tukker crew, we’d like to say a huge thank you to our volunteers- we wouldn’t be able to work half as efficiently without all your time and energy.
If you’re interested in volunteering for EcoClipper, please reach out to us at info@ecoclipper.org!
