Celebrating 50 years of service

The organisation’s pioneering vessel, Logos, was launched from London in February 1971.

Since then, four vessels have crisscrossed the world, welcomed almost 49 million people up their gangways and reached out to perhaps as many more again on shore.

Combined, Logos, Doulos, Logos II and Logos Hope have covered enough nautical miles in the last five decades to circumnavigate the globe five times. The second-hand ships have been crewed entirely by volunteers motivated by their faith in God and desire to serve others. Professional seafarers and essential crew offer their time and expertise for no financial reward. Costs are met by sponsorship and charitable donations.

What began as an outlandish idea in the 1960s became a respected ship-based venture with the aim of sharing knowledge, help and hope. Its legacy, says the founder, is in the lives of the people who have been impacted by a ship visit to their city and interaction with the inspirational international crew bringing affordable literature, educational resources and humanitarian aid.

The anniversary will be marked with a series of events in significant locations: from the purchase date and refit of the first ship to celebrating Logos’ maiden voyage. Former crew and longstanding donors will get together virtually with current staff to share their memories and look ahead to future plans.

The current ship, Logos Hope, is spending 2021 in the Caribbean, where her 300-strong crew continues the mission; serving island communities in compliance with coronavirus restrictions.