Elegant

From Stralsund, we first sailed via Usedom in a wide arc past Rügen in fantastic weather to Hiddensee, where we waited out a strong storm, before returning to Stralsund.

What made the trip so special was the harmonious group, the great crew, the surprisingly good food, and simply a journey that made everyone happy.

After experiencing almost continuous calm two years ago—which nevertheless gave us a no less wonderful sightseeing and swimming cruise through the waters of the Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft National Park with unforgettable impressions of nature aboard the Elegant—this summer we were able to set sail (almost) every day. With truly good wind strengths and plenty of knots, we explored the eastern Danish Baltic Sea all the way to the southern coast of Sweden.Our first stop was the “dollhouse” harbor of Lohme on Rügen, with its sweet little Café Niedlich and a beautiful evening light illumination. From there, we headed out on a fast day’s sail toward southern Sweden/Falstebro, where we spent a lovely quiet and warm summer evening on deck in a small canal, passing the time with maritime guitar music. Our third stop was on Zealand in the small historic town of Dragør, just south of Copenhagen.Day 4 brought us the impressive chalk cliffs of the island of Møn, which we were able to hike thanks to a weather-related layover. An incredible scenery that truly touches the senses. In the evening, thanks to a very secluded berth in Klintholm Harbor, we could even have a little deck dance party without disturbing the general harbor peace.Finally, we visited the island of Hiddensee, where this time we enjoyed a refreshing surf bath with massive waves in the sunshine—topped off with a festive meal purchased at the island’s smokehouse. It was a week full of highlights, with the best sailing winds and endless sunshine… something that doesn’t come around often, but hopefully will again ;)Maik and Pascal guided us 21 landlubbers wonderfully and, with their know-how, made our stay very enjoyable. Daily legs and destinations were agreed upon depending on the weather and crew, so that in the end everything came together perfectly.The entire organization of the cruise via Julia was simply fantastic! She gave great tips, always had an open ear, lots of patience, and was also available for questions at very short notice. 100 points for Julia!

Two years after our first trip on the “Elegant”, this time we set course for Denmark.

Captain Maik and the crew – Pascal and Laura – really had their hands full this time: constantly changing weather forecasts, harbors we couldn’t reach, and then those hopelessly unskilled “helpers” on the sails.Well, to be fair – when all the crew members are over 60, hoisting, lowering, and folding sails is quite a physical challenge.The trip, with some rough seas (force 7), heavy rain, but also glorious sunshine – plus a rest/hiking day on Møn – was once again a fantastic experience!As for the onboard catering (all self-managed), there’s not much more to say: it was top-notch, and our kitchen teams really came up with something new every day.We’ll be back! Thank you, you three!

12 days, nearly 700 km on the beautiful ship with 30 people. Everything worked out very well; the crew was thoughtful and supportive wherever possible. We cooked for ourselves — and did a great job — so the food hasn’t been rated. The facilities for cooking were excellent. We really appreciated the flexibility regarding the daily schedule and destinations — and the participants’ needs were always taken into account. We’d be happy to do it again!

We dealt in advance with changes to the plan, insurance matters, and clarifications regarding the ship’s suitability for our trip. Rederij van Linschoten provided active support, ensured communication with all parties involved, and, above all, helped find appropriate solutions.

We are completely satisfied and were able to experience another impressive and wonderful adventure.

Kieler Woche 2025, final evening. Warm and sailing-friendly weather, so the sails could actually be set. We sailed past various ships and boats out onto the fjord. From there, we returned for the closing fireworks around 10:45 PM. A very relaxed, friendly, and competent crew along with about 40 guests made for a pleasant mix. The stew was also delicious. We’ll be happy to come back!

This wasn’t my first trip on a traditional sailing ship. However, this journey will always stay in my memory. Not only the crew, but also the catering deserves a solid A+. It’s certainly not something to be taken for granted how lovingly everything was prepared by our cook, Claudia. At this point, a big compliment also goes out to the other fellow travelers—for the understanding and consideration shown to and with one another. For me, it’s clear: if my health allows it, I will join the Elegant again on the transfer voyage from the Baltic Sea back to Harlingen.Until then—may you always have a hand’s breadth of water under the keel!Best regards,Eckhard