Discover the hidden gems of the Netherlands and experience the ultimate blend of summer and adventure on the open seas. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just hunting for an exhilarating adventure this summer, the Netherlands offers a trove of breathtaking sailing spots that continue to astound. From picturesque lakes in Friesland to the wild tides of the Wadden Sea, this country is a paradise for adventurous sailing enthusiasts of all levels. Did you know that the Wadden Sea is the largest tidal system in the world and is therefore a UNESCO World Heritage Site? While the Netherlands may not guarantee sunshine, it most certainly promises an abundance of water.
From time to time you need to take care of your waterproof jackets and apparel to keep them in a good condition and prolong their lifetime. Starting with a wash and, if necessary, waterproofing of your trusty gear like sailing jackets, mountain bike trousers, and ski jackets. For post-production washing and waterproofing of our gear, we use eco-friendly and biobased products by OrganoTex.
As spring approaches, racing sailors across the nation are itching to compete both locally and internationally. For many, the ultimate goal is to participate in the prestigious Rolex Fastnet Race. The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC), the event's organizer, warns that this is no race for beginners: "The Rolex Fastnet Race is not a race for novices. Every crew member must have experience sailing a yacht offshore and be prepared to encounter heavy weather." This year, sailors will embark from Cowes, round the Fastnet Rock south of Ireland, pass the Scilly Isles, and finish in Cherbourg. Spanning 695 nautical miles along the Irish coast, this race against the clock is a dream for many sailing enthusiasts. But how can you transform that dream into reality?
In this interview, we speak with Martin Rinckes, a seasoned rigger who has coached numerous (amateur) sailing teams to the finish line, sharing his expert insights on what it takes to achieve victory. As the preparations for the upcoming season gain momentum behind the scenes, Martin, the owner of 52 Rigging, divulges his secrets to ensuring that you and your team are fully prepared for the first sailing race of the season. So hoist your sails and join us on this thrilling journey to racing success.
When Ivar Smits (right in the picture) and Floris van Hees (left) quit their jobs in 2016, it was finally time to start their journey. They have visited 29 countries since, sailed 41,500 nautical miles, and found 60 sustainable solutions: meet Sailors for Sustainability. In this interview, they talk about the preparation and maintenance involved in setting out on a journey like this. How do you find a welder in South Africa? How do you decide when to do major maintenance? What do you take on board?
Autumn and winter are majestic seasons to go sailing for those who dare to conquer the wet & cold. However, sailing in these seasons is not without its challenges. Floris de Waard is a seasoned sailor when it comes to sailing in the cold and wet. Floris shares his experiences and tips & tricks for clothing when sailing in cold conditions with us and you! Besides great stories of his encounters with the wildlife in the wide land and waters of Spitsbergen.
