An environmentally conscious choice

A trip on a traditional sailing ship on the IJsselmeer is more than just a memorable experience — it is a conscious, sustainable and responsible choice. Whether you are planning a family day, friends’ weekend, corporate event or a multi-day sailing holiday, travelling by wind power allows you to enjoy nature with minimal environmental impact while supporting cultural heritage

Sustainable enjoyment Sailing in Holland

Sustainable enjoyment on the IJsselmeer

The IJsselmeer is one of the largest inland lakes in Europe, offering wide horizons, fresh air and unspoiled waters. Choosing a traditional sailing vessel means relying primarily on the natural power of the wind. During sailing, CO₂ emissions are extremely low and noise pollution is minimal. You experience the sound of the water, the wind in the sails and the peaceful rhythm of nature — without the constant engine noise of motorized recreation

Wind power as green energy

The Catharina van Mijdrecht operate mainly under sail. The engine is used only when manoeuvring in harbours or when safety requires it. Fuel consumption therefore remains very limited. Compared to flying or high-emission leisure activities, a sailing weekend or sailing holiday is a climate-friendly alternative that combines adventure with environmental responsibility

Sustainable enjoyment Sailing in Holland

Preserving maritime heritage

An often overlooked benefit of sailing on a traditional ship is the preservation of maritime heritage. The Catharina van Mijdrecht is a historic working ships that have been carefully restored and maintained. By chartering the ship, you actively contribute to keeping this living heritage afloat.

Your trip helps sustain traditional crafts such as ship carpentry, sail making, rigging and classic metalwork. These skills survive only when ships continue to sail. In this way, your outing supports not only sustainable tourism but also centuries-old craftsmanship and nautical history

Long lifespan and circular use of materials

Traditional sailing ships are built to last. The Catharina van Mijdrecht is more than a century old and still fully operational. Rather than replacing vessels, owners invest in maintenance, restoration and the reuse of materials.

Wood is repaired instead of discarded, steel hulls are conserved and strengthened, and components are reused wherever possible. This long lifespan and practical circular approach align perfectly with modern sustainability principles and responsible resource management

During your voyage, you can visit charming historic harbour towns such as Enkhuizen, Hoorn and Edam. Here you support local businesses and experience authentic Dutch maritime culture.
Instead of mass tourism, you choose personal attention, regional character and meaningful travel

A meaningful group experience

A family day or friends’ weekend on a sailing ship is all about teamwork. Hoisting sails, steering the ship and navigating together strengthens bonds and deepens awareness of wind and water. It is an active outdoor experience that connects people — with each other and with nature

The Catharina van Mijdrecht offers more than relaxation. It represents renewable energy, circular thinking, preservation of maritime heritage and support for local craftsmanship.
Sailing is not just an experience — it is a conscious investment in nature, culture and the future

Here you will find several sample ideas for Sustainable enjoyment. Our arrangements serve as examples and can be put together according to your wishes.
We will gladly take care of it for you
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well-organised

Well-organised sustainable enjoyment is very important. You may rest assured that your sailing trip with us will be taken care of to perfection. In addition to the action of sailing, there is always room for a relaxed conversation and a drink, on deck or in our cozy cabin.

The Catharina van Mijdrecht meets all legal safety requirements, and her crew has trained at the Enkhuizen Nautical College.
You can come on board with peace of mind.
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An Unforgettable experience

On board the Catharina van Mijdrecht, you are in the capable hands of a professional crew. Jos Rodewijk will be your skipper and take you safely from point A to point B. Danny Honig or Sandra Fox will be your hostess, and will ensure that all your culinary needs are taken care of. With their many years of experience they know how to make every Sustainable enjoyment an unforgettable experience.

The Catharina van Mijdrecht was built in 1916, as one of the last sailing cargo ships. This beautiful and original Klipperaak (clipper-barge) began her second career as a passenger ship in the 1980s.

On board the Catharina van Mijdrecht, everything is about the experience for the guests. You can help sail the ship or even take the helm, all under expert guidance. Besides that, there will be plenty of time for convivial gatherings with food and drinks.

Our traditional sailing ship is modern in terms of comfort, clean, spacious, warm, accessiblle, and has all the mod cons. The interior exudes an authentic atmosphere, with lots of lacquered wood and nautical details. There are plenty of seats and a spacious deck for sun lovers.

The sailing ship has a daytime capacity of 40 passengers, plus 18 berths in 8 rooms for overnight guests. Is your party bigger? No problem! We also sail in collaboration with other ships. After a well-spent day we can anchor together for a barbecue on board or for a sporting or cultural activity!

Impressions

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