Sustainability in Sailing with Holland Sail
In an ever-changing world where both the climate and human awareness of the environment and community are evolving, we, as independent entrepreneurs, take great responsibility for a better future.
The urgency to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees has never been greater. By traveling responsibly and sustainably, we can all contribute to changing course. As skippers of sailing ships, we know better than anyone how wonderful it is to be in nature—and we also understand the importance of taking care of it.
Nature moves us, brings us peace, refreshes us, challenges us, and never ceases to amaze. We are adventurous, active, and full of enthusiasm, but always respectful of the environment. With unwavering confidence in our abilities, we strive to make a positive impact on the climate, nature, and the cultural heritage that surrounds us.
How Can We Travel Sustainably?
At Holland Sail, we aim to make travel more sustainable and environmentally friendly through the following practices and guidelines:
Wind in the Sails, Engine Off
On board our ships, we prioritize sailing as much as possible, using only the power of the wind. We minimize the use of engines and generators, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions and ensuring an almost entirely emission-free and eco-friendly way of traveling.
Sustainable Use of Historical Heritage
Our fleet consists exclusively of historic sailing vessels that have been serving in cargo and passenger transport for over a century. Through careful restoration and maintenance, the entrepreneurs of Holland Sail contribute to the meaningful and sustainable preservation of maritime heritage.
Respect for Our Ecosystems
We introduce our guests to the wonders of nature, the rhythms of the tides, and the breathtaking expanses of the Wadden Sea in a respectful and sustainable manner. Our goal is to raise awareness and foster a more responsible approach to nature and the environment.
We actively support ecological conservation and regeneration, ensuring that activities like beaching on a sandbank on the Wadden Sea are done with minimal environmental impact. Special attention is given to nature reserves and high-biodiversity areas, reducing disturbances to natural ecosystems, such as noise, light pollution, and water contamination.
Our guests are invited to experience the incredible biodiversity of the Wadden Sea and become more conscious of preserving this unique natural habitat.
Waste Reduction On Board
Together with our guests, we strive to minimize waste and plastic usage. We choose eco-certified cleaning products, use seawater for toilet flushing, prioritize organic and fair-trade catering options, and encourage energy and water conservation throughout the journey.
Easily Accessible Departure Ports
The Holland Sail departure ports — Enkhuizen, Harlingen, Stavoren, and Kampen — are easily accessible by train, with the ships just a short walk from the station. This allows our guests to leave their cars at home, further reducing CO₂ emissions.
Rethinking Travel
The cultural diversity surrounding the IJsselmeer and Wadden Sea, along with the historic ports on our sailing routes, offer a rich and varied travel experience. The traditions and alternative ways of life visible on our ships are also reflected in the harbors and cities we visit.
Through our journeys, we demonstrate that a fulfilling, exciting, and diverse holiday doesn’t require a flight — because the Netherlands is always worth a visit!
