Ready for an adventure?

Rent a flat-bottomed Ship with a skipper?

Are you ready to explore the Dutch waters? Renting a flat-bottomed ship is a unique way to set out on an adventure. These traditional sailing ships are often associated with the rich maritime history of the Netherlands and are perfect for a relaxing yet adventurous sailing holiday. The ships have distinctive features and a charming appearance. At Rederij van Linschoten, you can rent a flat-bottomed ship to embark on your journey. As a shipping company in the north of Friesland, you are in the right place to rent a flat-bottomed ship with an experienced skipper. That’s a true guarantee for a carefree holiday!
On this page, you’ll learn more about flat-bottomed ships and why you should rent one with a skipper.

What is a flat-bottomed ship?

A flat-bottomed ship is a traditional Dutch sailing vessel characterized by its flat underside. Originally, this type of ship was used to transport goods across shallow waters such as rivers, lakes, and international coastal waters. The flat bottom ensures stability and a shallow draft, allowing easy navigation in shallow waters and even enabling the ship to dry out on the seabed in tidal areas like the Wadden Sea. Many of these ships are equipped with leeboards, which replace a keel to help keep the vessel on course.
Flat-bottomed ships come in various sizes, from smaller vessels for day trips to larger ships suitable for multi-day voyages. They are also perfect for group sailing trips and other activities with larger parties.

Platbodem huren met schipper

Why should you rent a flat-bottomed ship?

There are several reasons why renting a flat-bottomed ship is an excellent choice for both experienced sailors and those new to the world of water sports:

Why rent a flat-bottomed ship with a skipper?

For those with less sailing experience or simply wanting to enjoy a carefree holiday, it is possible to rent a flat-bottomed ship with a skipper. This offers several advantages:

  • No experience required.
  • A skipper has local knowledge.
  • Customized trips.
  • Sail actively or simply relax.

Advantages of renting a flat-bottomed ship with a skipper:

  • Access to unique sailing areas.

Thanks to the shallow draft of a flat-bottomed ship, you can reach places that are difficult or inaccessible to other boats. This includes shallow lakes, canals, and the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wadden Sea. It allows you to discover unique locations that other boats cannot reach, such as sandbanks and remote islands.

  • Authentic sailing experience.

Sailing on a flat-bottomed ship is an experience in itself. The traditional appearance and the feeling of freedom on the water provide a unique sailing experience. This type of ship is different from modern yachts; you need to work with the sail’s steering effect and the leeboards to keep the ship on course, creating an active and adventurous sailing sensation.

  • Suitable for groups and families.

Flat-bottomed ships are often spacious and offer plenty of room for multiple people. This makes them perfect for group outings, family vacations, or team-building activities. The camaraderie on board and the space to enjoy the stunning views and nature together make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience a nautical adventure.

  • Perfect for trips across the Wadden Sea.

One of the most popular destinations for flat-bottomed ships is the Wadden Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a beautiful and varied sailing area. With a flat-bottomed ship, you can dry out on the seabed of the Wadden Sea, which means you have the opportunity to step ashore in the middle of the sea when the tide retreats. This is a unique experience that you can’t experience anywhere else in this way.

Platbodem huren

Renting a flat-bottomed ship at Rederij van Linschoten.

Are you looking for a reliable place to rent a flat-bottomed ship? Then you’ve come to the right place at Rederij van Linschoten. We have several flat-bottomed ships available for rent and also represent a large number of vessels from the national and international brown fleet. In addition, we offer sailing trips, sailing holidays with a skipper, and can organize various company outings, school trips, weddings, and friends’ weekends.

With a sailing trip on a traditional flat-bottomed ship, you choose a “green” holiday: close to nature, environmentally conscious, and far away from mass tourism.

Are you interested in one of our services? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help make it an unforgettable experience.