Captain Niit's log

Here we go again...

...after a good few years were I had to stop my blog due to my employer claiming that my blog was important enough for our competitors to gain advances on bidding for work around the globe, knowing our whereabouts. Money matters, for "Big oil" it matters more.With a crew of 70 people, one would think that many of my crew facebooks entries would easily give that away...but the argument was that "I, as a Master of the vessel was more credible as source?"

Anyway..

After leaving my work on the mighty "Hugin Explorer"2020, I unfortunately had to start a fight with my former employer(no connection to the vessel). As it turned out that they had neglected to fulfill their contractual obligations, rendering me without any unemployment benefit pay. My employer, also being my union, had started a manning agency which I joined 2007.

I spent a year fighting against, what I thought was my supporter, my Swedish union daughter company. I approached the international ITF to no avail. ITF asked me to bring my problems up with "my union", "the culprit" (catch 22.). I finally had to resort to the European Community lawyers(SOLVIT), which helped me to redeem my entitled social benefits. Also the benefits for a couple of fellow crew members.

The unions have in my view outplayed their roles and become Mobsters with the sole purpose of maintaining their self sustaining agenda of luring their members into paying large amounts of money, under the false pretext of serving them. when in fact they are only lining their own pockets.

So I say like the Captain of Titanic, Captain Smith, his "disputed" last words, "It is every man for himself.". So to all mariners out there...when push comes to shove, do not count on any support of significance from your union.

I will now continue my blog, posting my many photos/films from my time onboard Hugin Explorer, that has given me so much joy, happiness and experience. Primarily for my family, but also for my fellow colleagues that enriched my life in so many ways.

Below my farewell post on LinkedIn and some reactions from many friends....saved for my personal future fond recollection.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clas-niit-633267a_thankyou-future-grateful-activity-6720110864265039872-9A4v/?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web

Time for my final walk down the gangway…
After 10 years of joy and happiness, but also some trials and tribulations.
I would like to pay tribute all the crew members that I have been sailing with, on this wonderful and versatile lady.
Thank you.
You’ve all contributed immensely to her renowned success.
I also wish her the best of luck on her future endeavors #thankyou #future #grateful .

Reactions Linked In friends and colleagues...

colin finniganView colin finnigan’s profile • 1st HSE Advisor/Trainer/Auditor

Just seen this mate. Where you off to now?

Clas Niit

Hi Colin. Still looking around a bit...Not like offers piling up outside my door...so I have to decide on what is available. Are you still in Seabird?

Kristine SmithView Kristine Smith’s profile • 1st Sourcing Specialist - Fugro Companies

Hi Clas,
I'm very sorry to see you leave us! I wish you all the best!

Clas Niit

Thank you Kristine. I really appreciate all your good support and patience during our years of working together. Take care and stay safe.

Anders FägerView Anders Fäger’s profile • 1st Captain at Sea Bird Exploration

Vad ska du göra nu?

Anders FägerView Anders Fäger’s profile • 1st Captain at Sea Bird Exploration

Hej Clas!
Är det helt slut nu?

Clas Niit

Hej Anders. Nej inte för egen del, men Hugin äventyret är avslutat.

Cindy VerboogView Cindy Verboog’s profile • 1st Executive Secretary at Fugro Marine Services & Student at SheCodes.io

You will be missed.... 😥

Clas Niit

Thank you, for your kindness. Keep up the good and important work, it is really appreciated. Take care and stay safe my friend.

Noel EspielView Noel Espiel’s profile • 1st Crewing Coordinator at PXGEO

Capt. Clas, All the best on your new endeavors 🍻

1 Reply 1 Comment on Noel Espiel’s comment

Clas Niit

Thank you for your contributions as well. Stay safe.

Stevy Arif LiandoView Stevy Arif Liando’s profile • 2nd Seaman di Bahtera niaga internasional

Interested for job

Michal BobinskiView Michal Bobinski’s profile • 2nd Master at RN

Well said, it's always nice to read such thanks when a person finally appreciates What and When and with Whom he has lived.
You'll know the real Guy after he Quits, Not after He Starts 🆒 👑 🏆

Clas Niit

Thanks Michal...

John BennettView John Bennett’s profile • 1st Seismic

Enjoy the pipe and slippers ol boy! Still think your a below decks wiper/oiler 😉

John BennettView John Bennett’s profile • 1st Seismic

Clas Niit I first met you at a BBQ in the Ladol dock in Lagos when Hugin & Munin were in together. After spending the time chatting over a few beers you told me you were Capt of the Hugin...I thought you were joking and was convinced you worked in the engine room 😉 Wish you the best for any future endeavours old pal

Clas Niit

Thanks John...that is still a fond memory..I enjoyed it a lot. Many laughs...it was a very nice evening. I likewise wish you a bright future. Lets hope this pandemic slacks down a bit sooner than later..

Sotiroula MichailView Sotiroula Michail’s profile • 1st Operational Team Leader - Offshore Crew Management

Warmest wishes and best of luck Cpt. Clas, honour to work with you and the amazing crew on this lovely lady back in 2015, even for a short period.

Clas Niit

Thank you Sotiroula. These were wonderful times, and your efforts contributed to our success and fond memories. Thank you for that, Stay safe, and take care..

Alex PerezView Alex Perez’s profile • 1st Oil & gas consultant

Those safety meetings were the best. Best of luck on your next step, Captain! 🍀

Clas Niit

Thank you Alex. That means very much to me, trying to bring the message out in a sensible manner, when safety today has become more of a corporate paper tiger. Stay safe my friend.

Dag GrepperudView Dag Grepperud’s profile • 1st QHSE / HR Director for Allton

Well done Clas! Good luck!

Clas Niit

Thank you Dag. And thank you for "paving our path" with regards to QHSE culture in SBX. Stay Safe.

Erick D. Thürler ∴View Erick D. Thürler ∴’s profile • 1st Radio Operator / Perito Grafotécnico / ESG / Despachante Documentalista (Recurso de Multas) / Analista de Licitações. - NÍVEL SUPERIOR: Marketing / Pós-Graduado - MBA em Licitações NLL 14.133/21

It was a pleasure to be part of your crew. Thank you. Wish you the best.

Clas Niit

Thank you Erik, for your contribution as well. And it was our pleasure to have you on board. Stay safe in these difficult times..and take care of yourself.

Sandy Fraser, NRPView Sandy Fraser, NRP’s profile • 1st Remote Paramedic at Remote Medical International

I have worked with a several good Captains and a few Great ones. You are one of the best and I always looked forward to working for you! No luck needed on your next opportunity as you will always make your own!

Clas Niit

Thank you very much for your kind words. And thank you for your contributions for all these years. It has been a pleasure for me to work with you, and I also know that you will stay safe, but I wish you the best and most successful of futures.

Jurgen van WichenView Jurgen van Wichen’s profile • 1st CMS Officer

No... Really? Another good guy lost. Such a pity! Good luck Clas! Hope to see you back soon if things will pickup after this bloody Covid.

Clas Niit

Ha ha..Thank you Jurgen..and the biggest of possible thank you for your patience and valuable support thru the years..keep smiling and take care my friend.

Farid ForoughiView Farid Foroughi’s profile • 2nd Senior Vessel Manager at Seaspan Ship Management Ltd.

Good luck Clas

Clas NiitView Clas Niit’s profile Author Unlimited Master Source vessel/DPO/ROV-operations.

Thank you Farid, Take care.

Babak JabbariView Babak Jabbari’s profile • 1st GM at Zamil Offshore

13 years passed! Another unforgettable SBX project.
Well, see you soon in KSA onboard our DSV fleet.

Clas Niit

Thanks a lot Babak. What an adventure..Still some "dry powder" in my bag. Looking forward to new challenges and am a bit exited. Thank you very much, see you soon. Stay safe..

Tatiane BraunView Tatiane Braun’s profile • 1st QHSSE Professional | Maritime Expertise | Coach

Indeed during your time being in Brazil it was a really pleasure to work with you and your crew. I must say very well committed crewmembers sure because of their leader. Thank you for the pleasure and good job developed. All the best!!

Clas Niit

Thank you for your kind words Tatiane. It was exiting times. Thank you for your assistance and contribution to our progress. Take care.

Bruce CalderView Bruce Calder’s profile • 2nd Electrically and Mechanically qualified technician.

All the best Clas 👍. Pleasure working with you.

Clas Niit

Thank you Bruce, Likewise, pleasure was all mine, and thank you for your contribution to Hugins success. Stay safe.

Robert H. C. EynonView Robert H. C. Eynon’s profile • 1st QHSE Consultant

Thats sad news Clas, you are by far the best master I have ever met and worked beside. All the very best wherever you go.

Clas Niit

Thank you Robert. Likewise it was a pleasure to work with you, and I appreciate your valuable contribution during our Australian campaign. I also treasure the perfect sociable ending to the program. Very nice memories. Take care in these trying times..stay safe.

Marcos FigueiraView Marcos Figueira’s profile • 1st QHSSE Manager na Fugro

I wish you all the best Captain!
God bless your next chapter in this journey. Was a pleasure to work with you during this quick time. Stay safe and healthy. Cheers!

Clas Niit

Thank you Marcos, yes it was a bit short, but I enjoyed every minute. Good luck with your future as well. Take care.

David RansomView David Ransom’s profile • 1st Head of Supply Chain

Good luck Clas on your next adventure. it’s been a pleasure to work with you.

Clas Niit

Thank you David. Likewise, your personal commitment, extended service, and going the extra mile. Has helped us on board immensely during the last year. I hope our management recognize and appreciate your efforts. I hope our paths cross again, it has always been a great pleasure. Take care my friend.

Jonny Oluf HansenView Jonny Oluf Hansen’s profile (He/Him) • 1st Head of Odl As and Vessel manager at Siem Offshore AS

Long time Clas. Wish you all the best for what ever you are heading to😉🇳🇴

Jonny Oluf HansenView Jonny Oluf Hansen’s profile (He/Him) • 1st Head of Odl As and Vessel manager at Siem Offshore AS

You know Clas, good guys always Get good responce😉 all good on my side. Still going strong. And you too all the best and stay safe

Chris MoranView Chris Moran’s profile • 2nd ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING MANAGER | Oil & Gas/Marine Sectors | Contract & Project Management | Electrical/Mechanical

Boris Zaysef

Johan RindmyrView Johan Rindmyr’s profile • 1st Marine Pilot, CMID/MISW Accredited Vessel Inspector (AVI), RSI Accredited Vessel Inspector, Marine Consultant

Good luck with future challenges!

I remember when we first met when I handed over the Raven Explorer to you. I don’t think I ever met a more positive person than you. It was a please to work with that short period.

All the best!

1 Reply 1 Comment on Johan Rindmyr’s comment

Clas Niit

Thank you Johan, also remember these good times and excellent assistance that you provided, sharing your seismic knowledge, greatly appreciated. Take care, stay safe.

Riza ZakariaView Riza Zakaria’s profile • 2nd Project Surveyor

It's been a pleasure to spent half of my live for last few years in Hugin with you as Masters. Always remember how to manage 500m zone with you. Good luck for your next assignment Capt.

Clas Niit

Thank you Riza.
Yes it's been a few of those. Always feeling safe with an experienced "Top Gun" at the Nav-desk, as yourself. Thank you for these nice memories. Take care and stay safe Riza..

Silvio Cesar Sarmento MendoncaView Silvio Cesar Sarmento Mendonca’s profile • 3rd+ Rádio Operador / Bilíngue

Hi Captain Clas! It was a great pleasure to sailed with you. Have a good retirement and long life. The ocean will miss your big hug and God bless you.

1 Reply 1 Comment on Silvio Cesar Sarmento Mendonca’s comment

Clas Niit

Hello Silvio! Nice to hear from you again. Thank you, and the pleasure was all mine. I hope you and your family are safe in the troubled Covid times. Take care my friend stay safe..

Stewart CampbellView Stewart Campbell’s profile • 2nd Rov Pilot Tech

Was good when I was on there years ago you served it well

Clas Niit

Thank you Stewart, and thanks for your contribution to our success as well. We're all part of the chain...We Huginauts...

Ian StephenView Ian Stephen’s profile • 1st ROV Operational Support Engineer at Film-Ocean

All the very best for the future Clas! It was a pleasure to have met you and work with you on the Hugin! Great crew, atmosphere and never a dull moment. Take care

Clas Niit

Thank you Ian..Nice memories, of our good times...the years of progress and success.. Thank you for your contribution Ian. Stay safe..

Marcus KiddView Marcus Kidd’s profile • 2nd Deputy Construction Manager

Was a pleasure meeting and working with you Clas and wish you all the best in the future!

Clas Niit

Thank you Marcus. And thank you for your valuable technical input, and liaison during the vessel's evolutionary process in recent years. It was a pleasure having you on board. All the best, and stay safe in these very strange times..

Kieren BrenchleyView Kieren Brenchley’s profile • 2nd ROV / Pilot Tech

Good Luck for the future.

Clas NiitView Clas Niit’s profile Author Unlimited Master Source vessel/DPO/ROV-operations.

Thank you Kieren for your contribution, and assistance in maintaining our high professional standards, and yet the unique family atmosphere..
Stay safe and take care.

Les ShandrukView Les Shandruk’s profile • 2nd HSE Consultant / Client Representative

Good luck Captain Clas on wherever your next adventure may take you.

Clas NiitView Clas Niit’s profile Author Unlimited Master Source vessel/DPO/ROV-operations.

Thank you Les. It was a pleasure working with you. Thank you for help with fine tune and bridging our system towards the client requirements. Not only work, a pleasant period with lots of story telling. Take care Les.

Carl TupasView Carl Tupas’ profile • 1st Marine HR Professional

All the best Capt Clas

Clas Niit

Thank you Carl. I hope you and yours are doing fine. Fond memories, the SBX times. A little golden sprinkle around the edges, after all these years... Take care and stay safe.

Francis MensahView Francis Mensah’s profile • 3rd+ FRC COXSWAIN-BOSUN

Wishing you best of luck

Clas Niit

Thank you Francis.. Take care and stay safe..

Diogo FermoView Diogo Fermo’s profile • 1st ROV Supervisor | MTCS

It was a great run! All the best, mate.

Clas Niit

It surely was...thank you! Stay safe.

Mark JacksonView Mark Jackson’s profile • 1st BSc MBA. Marine Seismic HSE QC

Good luck Clas. I really enjoyed sailing with you when I was on the Hugin.

Clas Niit

Thank you very much Mark. still remember...you telling me about the old saying...(7 P's)Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance... ha ha cudos. Take care my friend...

James WoodsView James Woods’ profile • 1st Director at ROV SUBSEA LIMITED

Hi Clas
Its probably been a year since I last worked with you and the Hugin.
Great times over the years, by far the best Captain I’ve ever had the pleasure of sailing with.
All the best for the future.

Cheers James

Clas Niit

Thank you James...yes it has been a while. It is easy to be in command of such a great bunch of lads. The operation just runs by itself...Thank you for your assistance. Take care..stay safe.

Jamshid BayatView Jamshid Bayat’s profile • 2nd Technical Superintendent at Columbia Ship Management Ltd.

Dear Clas, wish you all the best. For sure seismic will miss you. Such a nice person and Master.
Take care and stay safe.

Clas Niit

Thank you for your kind words. And thank you for your good support during our years together. Fond memories. Like wise, stay safe in these strange times..

Jeremy GourmelView Jeremy Gourmel’s profile (He/Him) • 1st Service Delivery Manager

All the best Captain Clas. Was always a pleasure to come onboard and work with your welcoming team. Good luck for your next adventures!

Clas Niit

Thank you Jeremy. So nice working with you as well. Like our life buoy, our savior, you helped us out 24/7. And always with a smile. Thank you and take care and stay safe..

Graeme PalinView Graeme Palin’s profile • 1st Freelance Client Representative/Project Surveyor/OVM/OCM

All the best Clas. Thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Hugin with your good self at the helm. Happy days. I wish you every success with your next endeavours and hope it involves sampling many more varieties of rum

Clas Niit

Ha ha...thank you Graeme..thank you for your good support in what so often is the quest for effectiveness, yet stay well within the boundaries of safety...where you and your team where the back bone of our operation and performed with excellence. Good luck with your future as well, I hope you are fine, stay safe.

Matt GreenView Matt Green’s profile • 1st Master/OIM - Stena Drilling Ltd.

Great ship and better crew.

Clas Niit

Thank you Matt...I hope you are doing fine in these trying times..Nice to see you acknowledge your "Huginaut bug", thank you as well for making my work easy.

Marten OhlsenView Marten Ohlsen’s profile • 1st Ships- and Marine Engineer

Well done Clas, full pot!

Marten OhlsenView Marten Ohlsen’s profile • 1st Ships- and Marine Engineer

Clas Niit For sure, no doubt..!😉

Ted BågfeldtView Ted Bågfeldt’s profile • 1st Chief Engineer, Saab Kockums AB

Good luck with your future challenges!

Clas Niit

Thank you Ted. I hope you are doing well in these difficult times. Fond memories of me, breaking my seismic cherry(Raven Explorer) with you as my superintendent...
Thank you for your good assistance. Take care my friend.

Laurent JOSEView Laurent JOSE’s profile • 2nd Operations Supervisor / Project Manager OBN

Take care Captain Clas. Good luck for your next adventure. Cheers :)

Laurent JOSEView Laurent JOSE’s profile • 2nd Operations Supervisor / Project Manager OBN

Clas Niit always :)

Grzegorz BruzikView Grzegorz Bruzik’s profile • 2nd Chief Navigator in Seabird Exploration

She is an nice vessel, I have to admit. But the vessel is all about what she does in hands of a capable crew. You, Captain are one of the people who made her perform as well as she did. I Hope our paths cross again one day.

Clas Niit

Thank you Grzegorz. It was a pleasure to work with you, and like you say it is a team effort, we're all links in the chain of success...take care and good luck with your future, maybe our paths cross again...

Ilja BeckerView Ilja Becker’s profile • 2nd Maritime HR/Crew Management

All the best!

Clas Niit

Thank you, Ilja. Likewise...

Greg GordonView Greg Gordon’s profile • 1st Regional Fleet Manager, Americas at Fugro

Captain Clas, it has been a pleasure to work with you on our journey for the last 3+ years. Your exceptional Leadership, mentorship and dedication will be sorely missed. I wish you well on your future endeavors. Don't hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can do for you. Fair winds and following seas my friend.

Clas NiitView Clas Niit’s profile Author Unlimited Master Source vessel/DPO/ROV-operations.

Thank you for your kind words Greg. I agree it has been a pleasure, and very exciting times. Thank you for your good support during these years. And I am greatful for your continued friendship.
Stay safe and take care.

David HemingwayView David Hemingway’s profile (He/Him) • 1st Operations Management, Sales & Marketing, Surveying, Oil & Gas

Best of luck Clas, fond memories of the Hugin and her great crews.

Clas Niit

Thank you David. For sure a blessed life I've lived. Like I said many times before. I came to a "set table", and basically just rolled along. And off course, you being a part of the creating team, making it all Happen. Thank you very much for that. Best of luck to you in the future..

Robin YoungView Robin Young’s profile • 1st Consultant at Robin Young Ltd

Probably the best Master I've sailed with. Always with an infectiously positive mentality during the trying times and decisive in command. Good luck in all your future ventures.

Robin YoungView Robin Young’s profile • 1st Consultant at Robin Young Ltd

Clas Niit, I'm fine, finally going back to work now after a fallow Covid 8 months. Hopefully see you in Sweden sometime.

Nicholas PeyrouseView Nicholas Peyrouse’s profile • 1st Senior EHSQ Advisor chez PXGEO

It has been a real pleasure working with you and smoking few cigars too on this very unique vessel. Wishing you all the best for your future endeavours
Take good care of you and continue to be as you are as you are an amazing Captain and an awesome person.

Clas Niit

Thank you Nicholas...some lovely smoke sessions for sure, and good discussions. Really nice to have worked with you. lovely times.. good luck to you as well, take care.

Edmer GatchalianView Edmer Gatchalian’s profile • 3rd+ @bcpropertypro.com

Good luck to you Capt. Clas! very fortunate to work and been mentored by one of the best Captain I have sailed with 😁 treated you as a big brother that always gives encouragement and support. Hats off kuya!

Clas Niit

Thank you Edmer..What a lovely time in Singapore 2007...Raven Explorer...Hard work, and you held it all together, made it work...great effort, calm and positive...Best of luck to you in these trying times.

Derek FairView Derek Fair’s profile • 2nd Project Manager

Clas, it was a pleasure sailing with you and all crew on the mighty Hugin Explorer. I was there from the beginning and seen her and the crew grow with every project. Good luck shipmate.

Clas Niit

Appreciate your comment Derek. Long time no see. Truly some fond memories for us to treasure. Take care...

Erik LeutscherView Erik Leutscher’s profile • 1st Fleet Manager at Van Oord

Captain Clas, it has always been a pleasure to work with you as a true professional but also a warm personality. Good luck for the future.

Clas Niit

Thank you Erik, also thanks for welcoming us "Huginauts" into your corporate structure, in Rio 4 years ago. Good luck to you as well.

Lea HodsonView Lea Hodson’s profile • 1st Teaching Assistant formerly an Aeronautical and Offshore Engineer

Best of luck for your future Clas

Lea HodsonView Lea Hodson’s profile • 1st Teaching Assistant formerly an Aeronautical and Offshore Engineer

Clas Niit lol, me and the Mrs watched that and laughed the other day!
Your welcome and good luck in your future

Hamoun AriaView Hamoun Aria’s profile • 1st Entrepreneur | Facilitator | MBA | GAICD |

Captain Clas Niit I started my ever first DP journey under your leadership and command onboard the one and the only “Hugin Explorer”! At that time we were over 50 crew members with more than 10 different nationalities, such a diverse team and your leadership inspired and motivated all of us towards a common goal “success of operation with safety as highest priority”. Thank you!
Thank you for being such an amazing leader with a positive attitude, confidence and a sense of humor!

Clas Niit

Thank you very much Hamoun. What a lovely statement. We have had some great times on board, and also during our time in Dubai. Your amazing positive and energizing personality has brought light into my world, and contributed to our team on board Hugin as well... we'll catch up soon.

Mattias MalmbergView Mattias Malmberg’s profile • 1st Do it right, or don't do it at all

Thank you for nice and professional cooperation all the years on the Hugin Explorer! All the best for you, Clas!Thank you for nice and professional cooperation all the years on the Hugin Explorer! All the best for you, Clas Niit!

Clas Niit

Thank you Mattias...Likewise it has been my pleasure. Life is so much easier dealing with people who are professional, positive and have a have a great attitude like yourself.. Good luck to you as well in these trying times..

Neil CarrView Neil Carr’s profile • 1st ROV Superintendent at Fugro GB (North) Marine Limited

Have had some great times onboard over the years lots of good memories with you and your crew, all the best for the future.👍

Clas Niit

Thank you Neil. Yes we have created a special place in our hearts, for all "Huginauts"...a special bond. Thank you for contributing with your great personality..

Paul GilliesView Paul Gillies’ profile • 1st Electro-Technical Officer

All the best for your future endeavours Capt. Clas

Clas Niit

Hi Paul...long time no see...Thank you! I hope you are doing OK down under, Good luck to you and your future as well...

Conan Pitches Tech IOSHView Conan Pitches Tech IOSH’s profile • 1st External Field Service Technician at TGS Acquisition, Tech IOSH

Solid and clean vessel the hugin! All the best for the future!!!

Clas Niit

Thanks Conan. Good luck with your future...looking bright from what one can see "from outside.."

Trevor BrugmanView Trevor Brugman’s profile • 2nd OVM at PXGEO

Only had a short time with you Capt, but wish you the best on whatever the future holdz

Clas Niit

Thank you Trevor.

Martin Hartland CEng CMarEngView Martin Hartland CEng CMarEng’s profile • 1st Chief Operating Officer

Captain Clas, let me be the first to say that it was a pleasure to sail with you and your one of the most professional Master Mariners I have had the pleasure to work with. Good luck with your next assignment.

Clas Niit

Thank you Martin, for your kind words. The pleasure was all mine. You are a true visionary, so I wish you good luck as well.

-----------------

Dynamically flexible beauty..

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Start my blog again, Final walk down the gangway 2020 and "Union rant".

Amen

Reality bites