A day full of new impressions, technology and history – an excursion to Bremerhaven as part of the International Shipping & Chartering (ISSC) programme at Bremen City University of Applied Sciences (HSB) combines theory and practice in an impressive way. Company visits and encounters with offshore wind power, a historic icebreaker and modern tugs reveal a multifaceted picture of the maritime economy in the state of Bremen. The students are enthusiastic.
Like all HSB degree programmes, the ISSC attaches great importance to closely linking academic study with the reality of working life. Excursions to maritime companies and institutions are therefore an integral part of the programme – and once again, such a practical day was held with great success at the beginning of the winter semester.
The journey of the 35 students, accompanied by Prof. Dr. Iven Krämer and Prof. Dr. Thomas Pawlik, begins on the regular Weser ferry in Bremerhaven. During the crossing, they gain direct insight into everyday work on a ship's bridge. In addition, they enjoy an impressive view of the maritime industry's working environment along the riverbanks. The focus here is on the construction of huge foundation elements for offshore wind farms by the Nordenham-based company Steelwind, as well as on the crucial role of ship pilots in ensuring safe shipping. ‘Very impressive. We were able to experience first-hand the effective interaction between the maritime infrastructure and the technology behind it, the connecting logistics, and the people working here and their expertise,’ one student puts it.
A special highlight of the excursion is a visit to the historic steam icebreaker ‘Wal’ of the Bremerhaven Shipping Company. Built in 1938, the ship kept the Kiel Canal ice-free for 50 years and is still seaworthy today. At a time when modern ships dominate the waterways, this technical relic remains a living example of excellent maritime engineering skills. The students explore the technology, organisation and historical features of the ship – a rare experience.
The day ends with a visit to Boluda Towage Europe and Fairplay Towage Group. Students are allowed to explore the two modern tugs that take them out to the Bremerhaven quay. They visit the bridge as well as the deep engine room. The high performance and manoeuvrability of the ships, combined with the dedication of the crews, leaves a great impression on the students.
A big thank you goes to all the companies and institutions involved in making the excursion day possible. Their openness and commitment play a key role in enabling students at HSB to experience maritime professions up close and get excited about the industry.
Prof. Dr. Iven Krämer
Referatsleiter - Hafenwirtschaft und -infrastruktur, Schifffahrt
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