By Gloria Anderson
The Logos Hope is more than just a ship; it’s a floating library and a beacon of hope, bringing knowledge, help, and inspiration to people worldwide. As a first-time visitor, stepping aboard this unique vessel was an experience that I had eagerly anticipated for quite some time. Last year, after waiting in a long queue for hours, I reluctantly gave up on my dream of visiting the ship and promised myself that I would return when the Logos Hope docked in Ghana again. This year, I made good on that promise by visiting during the first week of its arrival, and fortunately, since it was a weekend, I experienced an easy and hassle-free entry.
My journey began as I approached the bustling harbour where the Logos Hope was docked. The ship’s distinct white and blue exterior stood out against the lively backdrop, filling me with a sense of excitement and curiosity. After passing through security and purchasing my ticket, I eagerly boarded the ship.
Upon boarding, I was greeted by a diverse and friendly crew representing various nationalities. Their warm smiles and welcoming demeanor made me feel at home right away. The crew’s enthusiasm for their work was contagious, setting a positive tone for the rest of my visit.
The ship’s interior was a blend of functionality and comfort, designed to cater to visitors from all walks of life.
My first stop was the massive book fair, which is the heart of the Logos Hope. The vast collection of books, ranging from educational materials to religious texts, was impressive. The lively atmosphere, with people browsing, chatting, and even reading on the spot added to the charm. The prices were also very affordable, offering a wide range of topics to choose from.
Beyond the book fair, I explored other sections of the ship that offered educational and inspirational experiences. One of the highlights of my visit was encountering the President of the Ghana Evangelical Mission Association, Rev. Godwin Kofi Ahlijah, who graciously arranged a tour of the ship for me. I was thrilled to explore parts of the ship that I hadn’t seen before.
The International Café was a cosy spot to relax, where I enjoyed a cup of coffee while watching a short film about the ship’s mission. The onboard exhibits highlighted the ship’s global impact, showcasing various humanitarian projects undertaken by the crew. The ship also boasts conference facilities where trainings are held.
One of the most memorable parts of the visit was interacting with the crew. Their stories of life aboard the Logos Hope, their motivation for joining the mission, and the challenges they face were both inspiring and humbling. It was clear that they were driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference in the world. We even had the opportunity to spend time with the captain, learning about his work and experiences.
Having thoroughly enjoyed my first visit, I decided to return, but this time on a weekend. To my surprise, the entire area was packed, creating both vehicular and human traffic. However, I must commend the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) security for managing the crowd efficiently and ensuring orderliness at the venue.
I also had the opportunity to interact with the Media Relations Officer for Logos Hope, Ms. Navya Lankadasu. She revealed that the response from the public had been overwhelmingly positive, with record attendance observed within just days of its arrival. “We’ve had nearly 5,000 visitors in a single day, which is the highest turnout since we docked in Ghana. We are expecting even larger numbers as word spreads and more people become aware of our presence,” she shared.
To accommodate the increasing number of visitors, the operating hours for the book fair will be extended starting August 29. Currently, the fair is open from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM daily, except on Mondays when it remains closed. From August 29, the public can visit from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with Sunday hours from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Ms. Lankadasu explained that the extension was made to give more people the chance to explore the fair: “We noticed the queues are growing longer, and we want everyone to have the opportunity to visit and take part in this unique experience.”
In addition to the extensive book collection, Logos Hope is engaging in various community outreach initiatives. Ms. Lankadasu detailed some of the recent projects undertaken in Ghana, including an eyeglass distribution campaign and a medical outreach program. “We partnered with local doctors to conduct vision tests and provided eyeglasses to residents in a local community. We also held a medical camp where people of all ages received healthcare services. These projects are central to our mission of meeting the needs of the communities we visit,” she explained.
The ship’s multicultural crew, consisting of 350 members from over 65 countries, is another key attraction for visitors. Ms. Lankadasu noted that each crew member is eager to share their culture while learning about Ghanaian traditions. “We encourage visitors to interact with our crew; it’s a cultural exchange where we share our stories and learn from yours. For many of our crew, this is their first time in Ghana, and they are excited to experience the local culture. Personally, this is my first visit to Ghana, and I’m looking forward to engaging with the people and discovering what makes this country special,” she said.
For those planning to visit, Logos Hope offers more than just books. Visitors can look forward to a range of activities and events designed to make the experience memorable. “Apart from the book fair, we have events lined up and opportunities to meet our crew. Seeing the smiles on visitors’ faces, especially the children, is one of the most rewarding parts of our mission. Many people have never seen a floating book fair before, and we’re here to make it a fun and educational experience for everyone,” Ms. Lankadasu added.
With just a few weeks left before Logos Hope sails to its next destination, the Sekondi Takoradi Port, the crew is eager to welcome more visitors aboard. The ship’s presence in Ghana marks a significant event for literature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those interested in community service.
As I left the Logos Hope, I felt enriched by the experience. The ship is not just a place to buy books or learn about the world; it’s a place of connection, inspiration, and hope. My visit to the Logos Hope was a reminder of the power of knowledge, the importance of community, and the impact of global service.
A first-time visit to the Logos Hope is an experience filled with discovery, learning, and inspiration. Whether you’re a book lover, a seeker of knowledge, or someone interested in global missions, the Logos Hope offers something for everyone. It’s more than just a visit; it’s an opportunity to be part of a larger mission to bring hope to the world.
