“Greetings on Board” Radio Tradition Returns for Christmas, Connecting Seafarers Worldwide
Hamburg, Germany – December 6, 2023 – In a world increasingly connected by technology, a heartwarming tradition is once again setting sail to bring Christmas cheer to those who spend the festive season far from home. The annual “Greetings on Board” radio program, a staple for seafarers since 1953, is preparing to broadcast messages of love and support to ships and maritime communities across the globe. This is breaking news for anyone with loved ones at sea, and a reminder of the human connection that endures even across vast oceans.
A 70-Year Legacy of Christmas Cheer
Originating from Norddeich Radio in East Frisia, Germany, on Christmas Eve 1953, “Greetings on Board” quickly became a lifeline for sailors and their families. In an era before widespread satellite communication, the program offered a rare opportunity to hear voices from home during the holidays. Today, while communication methods have evolved, the program’s core mission remains the same: to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication of those who work on the world’s oceans. “If ‘Greetings on board’ didn’t already exist, it would have to be invented right now,” says Susanne Stichler, this year’s host, highlighting the program’s continued relevance.
More Than Just Container Ships: Who is Spending Christmas at Sea?
The program isn’t just for those on massive cargo vessels. “Greetings on Board” extends its warmth to a diverse range of maritime professionals. From Antarctic expedition crews and cruise ship staff to tall ship sailors, sea rescuers, and even schoolchildren participating in educational voyages aboard square-rigged ships, the program recognizes the sacrifices made by all who spend Christmas away from loved ones. Consider this: nearly 90% of all goods surrounding us have been touched by shipping – a testament to the vital role these individuals play in our daily lives. The program asks a poignant question: how do families cope with months-long separations, and what are the experiences of those navigating the world’s waterways?
Send Your Wishes: Deadline Approaching
Want to send a message to someone at sea? You have until December 8th to submit your greetings! Messages can be sent via email to [email protected] or as a voice message through the NDR Info App’s Messenger function. The recordings will take place on December 17th (3rd Advent) at the Duckdalben Seamen’s Mission in Hamburg, accompanied by coffee and gingerbread – a fittingly cozy setting for such a heartfelt tradition.
How to Tune In: A Multi-Platform Broadcast
“Greetings on Board” will be broadcast on NDR Info on Christmas Eve from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM CET. But the program’s reach extends far beyond traditional radio. You can listen via:
- NDR Info and NDR Info Spezial live streams
- The NDR Radio app
- FM, DAB+, and DVB-S radio (NDR Info)
- DAB+ and DVB-S radio (NDR Info Spezial)
- Shortwave Radio: NDR Hörfunk has secured shortwave frequencies to ensure the program reaches crews on the high seas and in harbors worldwide. Transmissions will occur between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM UTC (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM CET) on specific frequencies (details available on the NDR Info website).
This multi-platform approach demonstrates NDR’s commitment to reaching as many seafarers as possible, ensuring that no one is forgotten during the Christmas season. The use of shortwave radio, in particular, is a nod to the program’s history and a practical solution for reaching those in remote locations.
As the world prepares for the holidays, “Greetings on Board” serves as a powerful reminder of the individuals who keep our global economy moving and the importance of connection, especially during times of separation. This enduring tradition isn’t just a radio program; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring human spirit, broadcasting a message of peace and goodwill to all those navigating the world’s oceans. Stay tuned to archyde.com for more breaking news and in-depth coverage of stories that matter.
