Nothing is as changeable as the weather. In the old stories, the sea sounds vast and treacherous. Is it really like that?
The experience of sailing at sea is always different because of the changing weather. Enjoying the sunshine, a pleasant breeze, or sometimes complete calm. A passing shower, sailing through the night, or watching the sunset. The sea’s nature and weather are always beautiful—often impressive, and sometimes intense.
While sailing, the ship, the skipper, and the weather become one. This trinity is always there
It is important to know that the ship is in good condition, that the skipper is capable, and to understand what the weather will do. The ships sailing with Rederij van Linschoten are all well maintained, inspected, certified for their purpose, and kept in order. The skipper and crew are trained and sail with the proper papers. Everything is carefully checked. Only the weather remains beyond our control—and that’s just as well. But what can we do with the weather?
Experiencing the sea and the weather is intensely beautiful.
How wonderful it is to experience the swell of the sea or the ocean. The waves roll in rhythms, and you quickly get used to the deck moving beneath your feet. Watching the sun rise above the horizon is breathtaking—especially for anyone who lives in the city or the mountains, where such a view is a rare gift. It is pure joy when, on a clear blue day, the sun emerges from behind a cloud, casting golden rays that seem almost tangible as they reach down to the water. Or when a heavy rain shower passes by—it is awe-inspiring to watch such a massive cloud release its water. The weather and nature can be absolutely breathtaking.
The crew is trained in meteorology.
On board the ship, the sailing crew is in charge: they make the final decisions about everything that happens on board. For this, they are trained in many different areas. During their training and the many days of hands-on practice, they learn about the technical systems on board, such as the engine and the freshwater pump. They also learn to sail, to navigate, and—most importantly—meteorology.
Meteorology, simply put, is the knowledge and interpretation of the weather. At sea this is especially important, for the sea is vast, wide, and awe-inspiring. But with the right knowledge, it can be as gentle as a lamb.
The meteorological models developed today are highly accurate and can look several days ahead. They are calculated by computers and are based on centuries of worldwide measurements. We cannot change the weather, but nowadays we can predict it with remarkable precision. And when these forecasts are combined with the crew’s expertise, there are very few surprises—even at sea. Before the voyage, the crew makes a number of decisions based on the weather, such as:
- The right planning: do you set sail now, or wait a little longer?
- The right route: do you sail close to the coast, or out on open water?
- The right timing: if you leave just two hours later, will the wind be much calmer?
This ensures that your sailing holiday with a skipper is safe and comfortable.
In addition, nowadays we also make use of modern tools such as our onboard radar to keep an eye on the weather, as well as active weather apps with up-to-date and detailed models. We also receive warnings via Navtex when needed, alongside our own observations of the barometer and the surrounding nature. (If the rain comes before the wind, the skipper should quickly take in the sails.)
From calm to storm.
In 1805, Sir Beaufort developed a scale for measuring the wind, so that we know what we are talking about. What counts as a light breeze, and when does it become a storm? This scale is still in use today. The skippers of Rederij van Linschoten also rely on it for their daily planning:
- With wind force 1 to 2, we speak of calm to light winds. Progress under sail is limited, and the next harbor can feel a long way off.
- Up to wind force 4, the wind is pleasant and just right—perfect for sailing and enjoying yourself.
- Wind force 5 and 6 bring a lot of wind, but there is no need for serious concern. Perhaps the route or the sail plan will be adjusted to keep the voyage comfortable and safe—while still giving everyone a refreshing dose of sea air.
- From wind force 7 onwards, we speak of strong winds. The route or program may be adjusted, depending on the sailing area, to ensure the experience on board remains enjoyable.
- From wind force 8 and 9, it is a storm—and you certainly do not set sail. Should you encounter this at sea, there is no need to worry. The ships can handle it, and the crew ensures a safe passage by adjusting the program and the sail plan in advance whenever a storm warning is issued.
- From wind force 10 to 12, we speak of violent storms up to hurricane force. In such conditions, the safest place for a ship is in the harbor—though ships were never truly built just to stay there.
In the old stories, the sea sounds vast and treacherous. But is it really so?
With the knowledge we have now, we can say: no. The sea is not treacherous with the understanding we possess today. We cannot change the weather, but we can predict it.
With the forecasts, the crew’s extensive expertise and craftsmanship, and the quality of the ships and materials, we can adjust our plans. We adapt them in such a way that the sea becomes a wonderful place to enjoy—safe and beautiful. A place where you can truly find yourself and experience the weather and nature up close.
When will we see you on board with us?