'Sailing? That's freedom and tranquility'

The tradition has been going strong for twelve years: every year, the Heerings family does something fun with all the children and grandchildren. Last summer, the organization of this family day was in the hands of Jeroen. When his wife Jennifer discovered that you can rent a historic sailing ship for your group, the choice was quickly made. Jeroen looks back on the sun-drenched day on the water.

23 April 2024

How it all began

'We love water immensely, and we also enjoy being active,' Jeroen explains. 'We were really excited about it. Sailing, helping to hoist the sails, learning all sorts of things. Some family members prefer to just sit back, watch, and chat. And that's all possible on board.' There were still some questions. For example, how does it work with food and drinks? What's a convenient departure port, and which ship is the best? 'Deniz was our contact person at BoatBoatBoat and he knew how to handle all our questions.'

Enkhuizen: conveniently central

Because the family comes from all over, Enkhuizen is chosen as the departure port. 'So everyone had to travel about the same distance, which was very important to me,' says Jeroen. The budget was fixed because the family faithfully sets aside some money every month for the family day. The two-masted clipper Meridiaan emerges as the winner and forms the cozy setting for a thoroughly enjoyable day trip.

What's for dinner today?

'Deniz explained to us that we could cook ourselves in the galley, but we could also opt for a caterer.' Initially, Jeroen chose to cook themselves because it fit best within the budget. However, the idea of catering didn't leave him. 'The idea that we wouldn't have to worry about the food ourselves was really nice. We opted for a middle ground and provided lunch ourselves. But in the evening, all twenty of us could enjoy a fantastic barbecue.'

'In the evening, all twenty of us could enjoy a fantastic barbecue.'

Looking back fondly

And then the moment arrived. 'Yes, I remember well when we walked onto the jetty. Countless beautiful historic sailing ships were moored to the left and right. Exciting, which one would it be? Once on board the Meridiaan, everyone started to arrive. We were warmly welcomed by Freek and Noemie and their relaxed dog. They really contributed a lot to the enjoyment of that day. They knew so many interesting things to tell. Of course, we also pitched in to hoist the sails. Noemie guided us through that very nicely.'

Finally, time for each other

It all went smoothly. The youngsters on the foredeck. The adults in the cockpit. Grandma enjoying herself under a canopy specially created by Freek and Noemie, where everyone came to visit from time to time. There was a suitable spot for everyone. 'It was so cozy. We don't see each other every day, so it's really nice to catch up with everyone. Those who wanted more action could help the crew. It was just very relaxing. We'll definitely do it again with friends. And then we'll make a weekend out of it.'

"We'll definitely do it again with friends. And then we'll make a weekend out of it."