Sailing with Ely: A Tale of Passion and Brilliance at Sea

In the summer of 1990, my maritime journey led me to the Super-tanker Karama Maersk, a vessel that would not only traverse the vast oceans but also introduce me to a remarkable soul.

The dry dock in Dubai was the backdrop where this chapter unfolded on June 8th, a day etched in my memory. As I stepped aboard, I found myself amidst a crew predominantly Danish, with the exception of the 1st officer, a British gentleman. I was the lone Indian amidst this close-knit community. The culinary delights were crafted by a skilled Danish cook, and the mutual trust and friendship among the crew set the tone for the upcoming voyage.

Having loaded Crude oil in the Persian Gulf, we charted our course for Angra Dos Reis, Brazil, navigating the formidable Cape of Good Hope enroute. After the cargo was discharged in Brazil, our return journey to the Persian Gulf took us back through the scenic route of Cape Town, South Africa, where crew changes were executed with precision, often via helicopter in the midst of transit.

It was during one such change that I encountered a remarkable individual – our Stewardess, Ely Baasch. As she descended from the chopper onto the deck, the weather was unforgiving, with a biting cold and a relentless wind. With her 61 years of age, I couldn’t help but worry about her well-being. I swiftly ushered her to the warmth of the crew mess room, offering her a comforting cup of hot coffee.

Initially, communication was a challenge, as Ely spoke mostly Danish with only slight superficial English. However, as the days unfolded, I witnessed her transformative impact on the vessel. Ely possessed an unwavering passion for cleanliness, waking up at the crack of dawn to meticulously clean every nook and cranny – portholes, curtains, carpets, tables, chairs, and cabins, washrooms etc. Her dedication knew no bounds.

My scepticism about her age evaporated as I observed her work ethic. Ely’s enthusiasm was infectious, and slowly, the entire accommodation area gleamed with a brilliance that was awe-inspiring. My own cabin became a testament to her meticulous care and attention to detail.

Ely’s story became a profound lesson for me. It wasn’t about the size or nature of one’s job; it was about the passion and dedication with which it was carried out. At 61, she surpassed performance expectations by leaps and bounds, leaving a lasting impact on all of us aboard.

Sailing with Ely was an honour, a journey that taught me the essence of passion and diligence. As we usher in a New Year, my heartfelt wishes go to this incredible soul, wherever she may be in the world. May her days be as bright as the cabins she once transformed with her unwavering dedication.

Happy New Year and best wishes to Ely Baasch, a living testament to the transformative power of passion and hard work.

Author: Amul Patange

Marex Media