Sailing with crew in Holland

Sailing with an experienced crew

Imagine arriving in a Dutch harbour, with your group gathered on deck and the sails ready to go up. There is no traffic to consider and no hotel to reach before check-in. Your ship, accommodation and shared experience are all in one place.

With sailing with a skipper, you can experience life on the water without needing nautical knowledge. The professional crew takes care of navigation and safety. You choose whether to join the sailing or simply enjoy the changing view.

A sailing trip shaped around your group

The same type of ship can create very different experiences. Sailing with family and friends may centre on shared meals and relaxed evenings. A school sailing trip gives students practical responsibilities and encourages cooperation.

Other possibilities include:

• a scouting sailing trip
• association sailing
• a bachelor party
• a company sailing trip for colleagues or business contacts.

Your own pace on board

Many voyages explore the IJsselmeer, Markermeer or Wadden Sea. These waters combine open views with historic ports, small towns and islands. Your possible route depends on the ship’s home port, the length of your trip and the sailing conditions.

Rather than following a strict timetable, the skipper creates a realistic route with your group. You might visit a harbour town, sail towards a Wadden Island, or spend an evening in a quiet port. On suitable Wadden Sea trips, dry-falling may also be possible.

A day, weekend or longer sailing holiday with skipper

A sailing holiday with a skipper gives you time to settle into the rhythm of the ship. You can visit several destinations and wake up in a different harbour. Since your cabin travels with you, there is no need to pack and move between accommodations.

The longer you stay aboard, the more possibilities the sailing area offers. Your route may include traditional fishing ports, open water and islands. The skipper adapts the plans to the weather, your group and the available sailing time.

Cabins, meals and life below deck

Ships used for longer journeys generally have a saloon, galley, sanitary facilities and sleeping cabins. The layout varies considerably. Some ships have several shared cabins, while others offer smaller rooms and additional comfort.

You can often cook together or arrange catering. Check beforehand whether bed linen, towels, harbour charges and cleaning are included. Looking for accommodation without a sailing programme? Consider a historic ship for an overnight stay.

Work, celebrate or meet on the water

A historic ship can replace a standard meeting room or event venue. During a workshop on board, you can use the saloon for discussions and go outside between sessions. Sailing together adds an informal activity without taking over the entire programme.

Birthdays, anniversaries and reunions can also take place on board. Selected ships are suitable for a wedding on a sailing ship, combining the ceremony, reception and voyage in one setting.

How do you choose the right ship?

Group size matters, but it is not the only consideration. Think about the number of cabins, sanitary facilities, departure port and preferred level of comfort. Deck space and indoor areas may be important for larger groups or uncertain weather.

BoatBoatBoat knows the ships and skippers personally and can help compare suitable options. Browse the available historic sailing ships, or share your plans for a more focused recommendation.

What does sailing with a skipper cost?

The total price depends on the ship, season and duration. Catering and optional services also influence the amount. For group trips, the ship price is divided among the participants, so the price per person depends partly on group size.

There is no single fixed rate for hiring a sailing boat with a skipper. The page about sailing ship prices and costs explains the main factors. A personal quotation gives you a clearer comparison based on your dates and wishes

Plan your time on the water

Tell us a bit about your group, your preferred travel period and how long you would like to stay on board. You can also mention any wishes regarding cabins, catering or activities.

Get in touch with BoatBoatBoat to explore the possibilities and receive suggestions that match your plans. You can also call +31 85 006 2820 or email info@boatboatboat.eu for personal advice.