AN internationally-crewed ship renowned for being the world's "largest floating book fair" has docked in Belfast for the first time in 17 years.
The Logos Hope is a volunteer-run vessel with a Christian ethos who are dedicated to a unique vision and purpose of sharing knowledge, help and hope with people all over the world. It travels from port to port around the globe promoting literacy and performing community outreach.
One of its unique features is a bookshop of more than 5,000 titles of fiction and non-fiction, adult and children’s books, all available at discounted prices to encourage people to get reading.
The ship boasts over 60 nationalities amongst its 350-strong crew, who comes from all walks of life, have diverse professions and are a mix of ages. Everyone has a role to play in keeping the ship running from those with professional seafaring and engineering skills to the onboard clinic team, teachers and cooks.
No member receives a salary but each crew member raises sponsorship to cover the costs of their period of service.
One volunteer is Navya Lankadasu, who is Partnership Director.
"I am from India and have been on board for three years. I have visited almost 30 countries during that time. It is not a normal life but I really enjoy it," she told Belfast Media.
Schani Wong (Project Coordinator) and Navya Lankadasu (Partnerships Director)
"I never thought I would get to see so many countries. I really enjoy working with people from different backgrounds and cultures."
"The ship hasn't been to Belfast in 17 years. It is really nice to be here. We have great interest so far in the first week and it has been really nice engaging with different people from schoolchildren to community groups and families.
"When we are here, we want to share knowledge, help and hope and our own personal stories as crew members.
"We want to engage with as many people as we can during our time here, share our literature and encourage people to come to some of our events. One of our big events is called Meet the World where we share our over 60 nationalities on board and showcase their culture.
"I would encourage everyone to come along and visit us during the rest of the time in Belfast. People can expect a lot of books, people stories and learn about our vision and share our journey in life and what it is like on board as a crew member.
Logos Hope remain open to the public at Albert Quay until October 20.
It is free to go board the Logos Hope to visit the shop and café. Tours of the ship, priced at £5, can be booked online.
Opening hours are 10am to 10pm Tuesday to Saturday, 1pm to 10pm on Sundays and closed Mondays.
