First visit to the Caribbean includes tests in tropical conditions and delivery of emergency equipment
WILLEMSTAD - On Monday, October 20, the Royal Netherlands Navy’s newest supply ship, Zr.Ms. Den Helder, will make a ceremonial entry into Willemstad. This marks the vessel’s first visit to the Caribbean, where it will conduct a series of warm-weather trials and logistical operations across the islands.
Ceremonial Arrival with Salute
At approximately 9:45 a.m., Zr.Ms. Den Helder will sail through the Sint Annabaai into the harbor of Willemstad. The ship will fire a 21-gun salute in honor of the flag of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Governor of Curaçao. The salute will be formally returned by Fort Krommelijn, also with 21 shots — a long-standing naval tradition symbolizing respect and unity within the Kingdom.
Testing in Tropical Conditions
The ship’s visit to Curaçao is primarily for warm-weather testing. The high humidity and warm seawater temperatures in the Caribbean provide ideal conditions to evaluate how the vessel and its onboard systems perform under tropical circumstances. These tests are essential to ensure the ship’s readiness for global operations, including humanitarian missions and naval deployments in diverse climates.
A New Era for the Royal Netherlands Navy
Commissioned in October 2025, Zr.Ms. Den Helder is the Navy’s latest Combat Support Ship, designed to provide fuel, food, spare parts, and ammunition to other naval vessels during missions. The ship significantly enhances the Netherlands’ logistical and operational capabilities at sea.
In addition to its support role, the Den Helder is carrying equipment for regional use, including Search and Rescue (SAR) boats for Saba and St. Eustatius. It also carries Reverse Osmosis units capable of producing drinking water in emergency situations, such as hurricanes or natural disasters — reinforcing the vessel’s humanitarian and disaster-response function.
First Stop: St. Maarten
Before arriving in Curaçao, the Den Helder made a logistical stop in St. Maarten on Friday, October 17, where it offloaded the SAR boats intended for the Windward Islands.
The ship’s Caribbean mission reflects the Royal Netherlands Navy’s ongoing commitment to supporting the islands of the Kingdom through logistical assistance, humanitarian preparedness, and maritime cooperation.
Residents of Curaçao can expect a spectacular maritime sight on Monday morning as Zr.Ms. Den Helder — a symbol of Dutch naval innovation and partnership within the Kingdom — makes its first proud entrance into Willemstad’s historic harbor.
