Voyage with the VOC

The Netherlands have been an important trading nation for a long time partly as a result of their geographical situation.
One of the first multinationals in The Netherlands was the ‘Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie’ (VOC).
The aim of the VOC was to send ships to Asia in order to buy pepper and spices, and to take over the Portuguese monopoly in this field. The Company was successful. An era of great prosperity resulted, in which the art of painting (Rembrandt van Rijn) as well as science (Constantijn Huygens) flourished alongside a thriving economy.

1. The Sails are set : There is a lot of hustle and bustle on the quay. The crew are preparing fordeparture. Goodbyes are said and once the sails have been hoisted the ship sets out to sea.

2. A Visit to the Rajah of Yogyakarta: After a voyage of many months the place of destination is reached. A visit to the Radja, the king of the area around Yokyakarta, follows. The dishes and beverages and the native culture in general are very pleasant after having been on a diet of ship’s biscuit and water for such a long time.

3. The Holds have been loaded: The holds have been loaded to the brim, and the voyage home can be begin!

4. Death sails along: Life at sea is rough. not seldom did a sailor die of a tropical disease or scurvy. After a memorial service, the Captain would speak the words ‘One, two, three, in God’s name ...’ and the body, wrapped in canvas, would be committed to the sea.

5. A joyful homecoming: After many months of hardship coming home is perhaps the best part of the entire voyage. The quay is filled with people eager to give the crew a warm welcome.