Korvetten Heimdals Togt til de vestindiske Farvande i Aarene 1861 & 1862

A Danish corvette sets sail from Copenhagen in the summer of 1861, bound for the distant West Indian waters. Lieutenant Holm’s account follows the ship’s departure, the challenges of navigating the Atlantic’s fickle winds, and the practical limits of a steam‑powered vessel that must rely largely on sail. His narrative blends official reports with vivid personal impressions, offering listeners a clear picture of 19th‑century naval life, from coal‑hunger to the camaraderie of the crew.

Beyond the travel details, the work reflects on the broader purpose of such expeditions—displaying national flag, testing naval endurance, and satisfying public curiosity about maritime affairs. Interspersed with six detailed lithographs, Holm’s observations capture both the technical side of sailing and the everyday rhythms aboard the Heimdal, making the voyage feel immediate and accessible. Listeners will gain a glimpse into the era’s seafaring world without needing any prior knowledge of naval history.