Explore the inner workings of a Navy ship
Put your kids in charge when they take to the helm of the largest warship in the Republic of Singapore Navy fleet this weekend. Little ones will thoroughly enjoy a sneak peek inside life on a naval ship. From the workings of fandangled technical equipment, to spying curious men and women in uniform, to learning about defence on the high seas, they’ll be awed by the great hulking presence that is the RSS Persistence. Discipline and drill-training may not be a take-away from this event (wouldn’t that be nice), but bringing your little sailors along to check out Navy@Vivo, happening now until 2 June, should get them ship-shape for a couple of hours at least!
About RSS Persistence
In between role-playing Battleship, your kids might be interested to learn a bit about the important role that this warship is tasked with and begin an understanding of what defence means. RSS Persistence is a landing ship tank that was commissioned in 2001. Manned by an 81 strong crew, it is a whopping 141 metres long – that’s the length of three Olympic-sized swimming pools – and eight stories high. The ship has been involved in several high-profile missions, like providing peace support to Iraq from 2003-2004 and humanitarian aid to victims of the Boxing Day tsunami in Aceh, Indonesia in 2004.
The bridge
Your first stop: the “brain” of any ship is the towering bridge. This high-tech control room is kitted out with dashboards full of blinking lights that all serve a very important function: to chart the ship’s navigational course. Find out who steers the ship, who directs it, and where the captain actually sits (hint: he sees everything!). Little one’s can claim a seat for themselves, buckle in, and experience what it’s like to give orders to their men.
The combat info centre
Here’s where all the action happens. This high-security territory – no photos here – is the place where naval officers engage in strategising defence. Here, enemies are tracked, and occasionally weapons are fired.
The helicopter control room
Besides charting new horizons on the seas, the Navy works with the Singapore Air Force to conduct flying operations. It’s usual for helicopters to be deployed during training and exercises, both here and abroad, so the ship plays host to a helipad and assists the choppers to participate. During your visit you’ll get to see a gleaming Super Puma helicopter docked on the ship. If only we could have a joy flight too!
The wardroom
After a quick stopover in the gym below decks (so naval officers can keep fit of course), you’ll visit the wardroom, where officers can relax and unwind after a hard day out on choppy waters. The room is kitted out in plush blue settees, a television set, and (the kicker) a cocktail bar. Grab the chance to quiz your friendly naval officer guide on what they get up to in their spare time. A few Cher ‘Turn Back Time’ moments perhaps?
The exhibition
When it’s time to regain your sea legs, there’s loads of activities to get involved in. Meet true-blue naval divers in the flesh, and take snapshots of kids in naval uniforms and diving gear at the photo-booth. Wear comfortable gear since there will be a lot of walking and clambering around on army/navy vehicles. Check out the Navy’s Facebook page for a video of what you can experience on RSS Persistence, and head to the exhibition to ballot for permission to go aboard. You can also ballot for a ticket to try a speedy 30-minute ride on the Navy’s Fast Craft Utility vessel too – it’s one exhilarating journey around Singapore waters.
It’s all hands on deck now – see you on board!
Navy@Vivo, VivoCity Promenade, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585. Runs from 29 May – 2 June 2014. Entry to the exhibition is free. Admission to the ship and Fast Craft Utility is by balloted tickets only.
Images: Navy Facebook page