A maritime historical event takes place on Sunday March 17th in the harbor of Philipsburg, St. Maarten. HNLMS Friesland, one of the newest ships of the Royal Navy, is welcomed for the first time by the Governor of Sint Maarten, Eugene Holiday.
From 08:45 am to 09:15 am the new patrol vessel is entering the harbor of Phillipsburg and is passing Fort Amsterdam. This goes together with the traditional salute firing to the Flag of The Kingdom of the Netherlands and to the Governor of Sint Maarten.
The HNLMS Friesland is sailing for several weeks now as the support ship for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard and has proven its worth in a variety of areas. Last week the ship intercepted nearly 1,500 kilograms of cocaine and last weekend the crew prevented illegal fishing near the Saba bank.
All in all the ceremonial arrival is an impressive navy tradition. This time it’s even more special by a historical fact. In 2013 the Royal Navy celebrates its 525 anniversary. The theme of this celebration is innovation. This theme is once again highlighted by the ceremonial arrival of the newest navy ship in Phillipsburg.