Whoever thinks of the Netherlands thinks of water. Our culture is steeped in it. Yet most of us have explored water only as far as the coast. We went a step further and boarded Fair Ferry's sailing vessel the Morgenster.
Fair Ferry provides ferry services by sailing ship. For example, they sail to the Wadden Islands, but also to London, Spain and even Latin America. Passengers are allowed on board and learn the ins and outs of sailing a ship. You are carried along by the wind, which makes it just about the most sustainable means of transport for long distances. In the process, you go completely off the beaten track. Sounds good, doesn't it?
An introduction to the Morning Star
OK, spending a week or even a month on a sailing ship is not nothing. That is why Honey Femke joined us on an introductory cruise to experience what it is like.
The day started at the Trawlerkade in IJmuiden. Here, the 49-metre sailing ship called the Morgenster was moored. With the Morgenster, Fair Ferry sails across the Atlantic. In other words, the distant voyages. So it is not just any boat, but a 4-master with sails of up to 29 metres high.
Hoist the sails and set sail
As soon as we left port, we were involved in the sailing process. That is quite hard work with such a big sailing ship. An hour flew by before the sails were set. That required about eight men to pull the ropes. So it certainly takes some doing, should you join the pioneer sailing trip.
Fortunately, there is an experienced crew on board. The ship's current owners are Harrie and Mirjam. They have been sailing our oceans with passengers since 1986. In 2008, they bought the Morgenster and refurbished it all by themselves. Harrie sews all the sails together himself! He said he once worked in a school hall as he needed a large space to finish the sail.
Soon they will hand over the baton to Jacob and Jehanne. A young power couple hoisting the sails on this trip.
History from the 20th century
The ship you sail on dates from 1919. On board, you will find a number of references to that time. For instance, there is a bell, which used to be rung every half hour to signal time and course.
With all modern navigation techniques on board, the bell is now only used to signal that it is time for a drink.
Inside, old books and paintings shine on the wall. There you will also find the bar, bathrooms and sleeping quarters. These are small, but equipped with everything you will need. There is even a washing machine and plenty of hot water on board! What more could you want?
Hey, ho, let's go!
Sailing with sailing ship Fair Ferry is an intense and super special experience. You will temporarily choose 100% for sea life. This involves hard work and lots of fun. Get ready for the wind through your hair, the sun on your face and cheerful melodies from Captain Harry. For bobbing on the waves, delicious food and night shifts. You will learn to reel and sail, and you will reach beautiful destinations with a small footprint. This way, you will experience Dutch culture not only on land, but also at sea.
Love,
Femke
Discover the Netherlands - Special activities
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Surfing in Wijk aan Zee
Honeyguide Yalou joins us for a day of surfing in Wijk aan Zee. She is taught by Anne Albers, a born and bred Wijk aan Zeesee who knows her way around the water very well.
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Oyster picking in the Netherlands
Honeyguide Laura takes you on a day of oyster picking. A unique experience that you can simply experience in your own country from September to the end of April.
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4x beachcombing on the beaches of Terschelling
Honeyguide Maxim likes to introduce you to beachcombing on the peaceful island of Terschelling. She tips you four organisations.