MV Doulos visits Kota Kinabalu

Last Sunday was a memorable one for me, my wife and my son because we were aboard the world's oldest active ocean-going passenger ship, MV Doulos! As we approach the ship along the wharf, it doesn't look like it's a ship built in 1914. MV Doulos has done re-modelling and upgrades over the years, that's probably why.

Doulos was purchased in 1977 by GBA Ships (known as Good Books for All) a non-profit, charitable organisation registered in Germany and the organization behind this idea is the international Christian NGO 'Operation Mobilisation'. All crew members of the ship are volunteers with no salary.

Only the 'boat' deck is opened to public and that's where the bookshop is. There are loads of books especially children's books and family related ones. All books and medias are priced by units, and 50 units is equivalent to RM4(Ringgit Malaysia). The wife bought a deluxe box gift set by Disney for the kids. The box includes 4 books, a music player and movie projector all for 500 units. Not bad at all. On board the ship, ice-cream and cold drinks are also available to complement the hot and sunny afternoon.

This may possibly be MV Doulos last and sixth visit to Kota Kinabalu, as it could be de-commissioned in 2014 and sail under certain restrictions after 2010 due to some regulations set by International Maritime Organization. So, if you're in Kota Kinabalu now, don't miss this chance. Those who are in West Malaysia, MV Doulos will be arriving at Pasir Gudang on 2009-9-24, which is her next port visit.

MV Doulos visit to Kota Kinabalu

Arrival: 2009-8-29
Departure: 2009-9-21
Opening: 2009-8-30
Closing: 2009-9-30
Opening hours: 10.00am to 10.00pm (Tuesday - Saturday); 2.00pm to 10.00pm (Sunday and Monday)
Entrance Fee: FOC

I was given a postcard-like souvenier just before I got off the ship. I'm impressed and inspired by the ship's history and most importantly the purpose of Doulos that is to bring knowledge, help and hope to communities around the world. Bon Voyage MV Doulos and all it's crew members.

Here are some photos I took while onboard the ship ( click on the photos for a larger version ).

Bow of MV Doulos

Getting on board the MV Doulos.

Ship registered in Valletta, Malta. Taken on the starboard of MV Doulos.

GBA is short for 'Good Books for All'.

General information : The engine room.

Satellite dome.

View of the beautiful Mount Kinabalu from the 'port' side of MV Doulos.

The bridge with a plane in the background that just took off from Kota Kinabalu international airport.

MV Doulos technical data.

Night view of MV Doulos.

Related links.

MV Doulos official website : www.mvdoulos.org
OM Ships : www.omships.org