Aboard one of our traditional sailing ships, you can explore this beautiful part of the Netherlands from the water.
The Markermeer is an ideal sailing area. On board one of our traditional sailing ships with a skipper, you can explore this beautiful part of the Netherlands from the water. The Markermeer offers stunning nature and tranquility, yet it is rich in landmarks, picturesque harbor towns, and fishing villages.
South of the Houtribdijk, which stretches from Lelystad to Enkhuizen, lies a beautiful sailing area perfect for a sailing trip. Covering over 700 square kilometers with favorable wind conditions, the Markermeer is a wonderful sailing region. Many of our ships depart from the Enkhuizen harbor, a charming city located on both the Markermeer and the IJsselmeer.
The Markermeer is a very diverse sailing area. For nature lovers, the Marker Wadden are a true highlight. This unique nature reserve, established in 2016, has become a paradise for plants and animals, making it a birdwatcher’s dream! Along the coast of the Markermeer, you’ll find authentic fishing villages and landmarks like Volendam, Hoorn, Muiden, and Edam. For passionate sailors and action enthusiasts, the Bontekoerace, a hard-sailing event for traditional ships, takes place every year. If you're interested in racing, Holland Sail offers sporty regatta trips.
In 1976, the Houtribdijk was built between Lelystad and Enkhuizen. Where the Zuiderzee once raged, the IJsselmeer was divided. The southern part is now the Markermeer. It is named after the former island of Marken, which is now a peninsula with its own small harbor, accessible by water or a dike. Originally, there was a plan to create the "Markerwaards" by draining the Markermeer to create new land for agriculture, housing, and other uses. This plan was never carried out. Thankfully, the Markermeer was left as a water recreation area with important ecological functions, making it a perfect location for sailing trips.
Explore the beautiful Markermeer on an unforgettable sailing adventure! Discover the breathtaking Marker Wadden, ideal for nature lovers. Visit picturesque fishing villages, join the Bontekoerace regatta, and immerse yourself in the region's rich history. Sail on the Markermeer and experience nature and history in perfect harmony.
The enthusiasm for sailing is deeply ingrained in all skippers and employees of Holland Sail. Sharing this passion has therefore become our trademark for many years.
With great care and dedication, we maintain and preserve our traditional sailing ships — true ambassadors of a maritime tradition that has been making sailing history for over a century. This ensures that every sailing trip with Holland Sail becomes an unforgettable experience.
