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BootBootBoot-Broedertrouw-Dek7 (Aangepast)

'It almost always goes well'

Skipper couple Arno and Saskia have welcomed many guests aboard the Broedertrouw. Safety stands alongside conviviality in shared first place on every voyage. 'It almost always goes well,' they say. Of course, that doesn't happen automatically. How do these experienced skippers approach it?

All about safety

With nearly 40 years in the trade, skipper Arno has seen it all. His partner Saskia joined 17 years ago. She's the one who interacts most with the guests. Therefore, Saskia is also the one who talks extensively about how they ensure safety on board. 'It's a top priority,' she says.

After the tour: all about safety
When the group comes aboard, there's first a small tour. Once everyone has found their cabin, Saskia gathers everyone together. 'I then tell them everything our guests need to know. How the water and electricity work, how the gas stove operates. But also: where are the emergency exits? Where are the life jackets and how do you put them on? Why is it better not to run or jump? I explain all of that.'

The real work: sailing

Sailing involves quite a bit. Knot tying, to start with. 'I divide them into three small groups, to explain what to look out for with each mainsail. Where to stand, for example, and where not. I handle the winches myself; you really need training for that. Communication is crucial, so everyone must be able to hear each other well. That's why we always say: no earphones. Or at most one. Everyone must be able to hear us when we say they need to pay attention or duck.' When a maneuver is done, Saskia ensures everyone is on the right side. 'Certain spots aren't convenient to be in, especially when the jib crosses over.'

'Communication is crucial, so everyone must be able to hear each other well.'

More wind, more attention needed

The wind is constantly changing. The stronger the wind, the more important it is to pay attention. 'Tacking with wind force six is really different.' Saskia always keeps an eye out and keeps the group informed. 'I tell them where we're going, how long it will take, and announce in advance when we're going to work with the sails. Then I explain again exactly what needs to be done.' The level of independence guests have during the journey varies by group. 'Some groups show more interest and attention than others. We adapt accordingly, of course.'

Most incidents happen ashore

The ship is equipped with fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and an AED. Saskia and Arno have first aid and emergency response diplomas. 'Fortunately, we've never needed them. It almost always goes well. The funny thing is, guests often have minor accidents ashore. Stepping on a shell. Sprained ankles from playing football. Those kinds of things. We do need a band-aid sometimes, though. Like if someone cuts themselves while cleaning vegetables, for example. But that has nothing to do with sailing, of course.'

'I announce it when we're going to work with the sails. Then I explain again exactly what needs to be done.'

Inspecting, sanding, and painting

During the winter months, the sails are taken off the Broedertrouw. Spars such as gaffs and booms are covered to reduce wear and tear. In the spring, everything comes out again, and the inspecting, sanding, and painting begins. 'We continuously inspect all parts of the ship. This way, we quickly notice if something needs maintenance or replacement. Safety is truly a priority for us.'

Curious about what the beautiful ship looks like that Arno and Saskia lovingly care for?

To the Broedertrouw