ALONGSIDE ROTA

EARLY MORNING

The first morning in Rota started of just as any other day on an SA Navy ship. Both watches were held at 07:30 and colours at 08:00.

The duty watch getting ready to musters on the flight deck.

The duty watch and off-duty officers at colours.

DISPLAY OF POWER 

Whilst the SAS Mendi's crew were busy with cleaning stations, refueling and taking on the last victuals for the trip to South Africa, a US Navy assault ship entered the harbour. Just before she arrived, two hovercraft came flying (no pun intended) past our ship and landed (again no pun intended) on the beach.

The hovercraft.

The US Navy assault ship.

COURTESY CALLS

At 11:00 the Officer Commanding SAS Mendi, Captain Kevin Packer and, Director Fleet Human Resources, Rear Admiral (Junior Grade) Kanyisele Litchfield-Tshabalala made courtesy calls on the senior admirals of the Spanish Navy in Rota. They first met with the Flag Officer Commanding of Rota Naval Base, Rear Admiral Gomez Enriques, and then with the Admiral of the Fleet, Vice Admiral Tello Valero.

Exchanging gifts with Rear Admiral Gomez Enriques.

Exchanging gifts with Vice Admiral Tello Valero.

THE REGION

The ship secured at 14:00 and the off-watch personnel went to explore the area. Some went to the town of Rota, some to 'El Puerto de Santa Maria' and others took a ferry across the bay to Cadiz. Cadiz and the Port of Santa Maria are of the oldest cities in Europe, with Cadiz dating back 1000 BC. They are picturesque cities with whitewashed buildings in the Moorish style and beautiful promenades.

Shipping, shipbuilding and fishing are the principal industries. A large part of Spain's trade with countries of the Americas moves through Cadiz. Exports consist largely of Sherry, cork, olives, figs, salted fish and salt. Machinery, iron, coal, timber, coffee, cereals and other foodstuffs are major imports.

Members of the crew in Cadiz.

Bull fighting arena in 'El Puerto de Santa Maria'.

Tourism is an important aspect of the local economy. The region is not only a perfect tourist destination because of the wonderful beaches and historical buildings, but also because of the friendly and warm nature of the local people.