Sailing aboard the historic schooner Marie Galante
Step aboard the Marie Galante and experience what it is like to set sail on a historic schooner. The ship was built in 1915 as a sailing fishing vessel and received her first auxiliary engine in 1926, making the sails largely unnecessary. In 1980, the Marie Galante was converted back into a sailing vessel, and since then she has been taking paying guests on adventurous sailing voyages.
Over the years, the ship has carried several different names and had many owners, but one thing has always remained the same: the sea is her home. You feel it as soon as the sails are hoisted together, the Marie Galante sets her course and her bow cuts steadily through the waves. Her rich maritime history, rugged appearance and authentic character make not only the ship itself, but every sailing voyage aboard her, a truly special experience.
Young owners with a passion for adventure
Since 2025, after the ship had been laid up for several years, the Marie Galante has been owned by Lex van der Linden and Lotte van Boesschoten. After gaining many years of experience aboard various vessels, both on inland waters and at sea, they found a new challenge in the Marie Galante – as well as a new home.
These enthusiastic and dedicated owners love sharing their passion for sailing with their guests. Together, they set out to discover new destinations, beautiful sailing areas and memorable experiences. The atmosphere on board is personal and relaxed, with teamwork, adventure and enjoying life at sea at the heart of every voyage.
Active sailing or simply relaxing
A sailing ship like the Marie Galante calls for active participation. During her sailing voyages, you can help hoist and lower the sails, handle the lines and assist with the other tasks needed to sail the ship safely and smoothly to her next destination.
No sailing experience is required. The crew will explain each task clearly and at a relaxed pace, and everyone can take part at their own level. Along the way, you will learn more about traditional sailing and experience what it is like to work together as a crew to sail a ship.
Prefer to take things a little easier? That is perfectly possible too. The spacious deck offers plenty of room to enjoy the fresh sea air, the endless views across the water and the scenery passing by. You decide for yourself how actively you would like to take part during the sailing voyage.
Enjoying time together on board
After an active day of sailing, the cosy, rustic-style saloon becomes the central gathering place aboard the Marie Galante. Here, you can unwind together and reflect on the day’s experiences, share stories, play a board game or simply enjoy the unique and relaxed atmosphere on board.
The well-equipped galley has everything you need to prepare delicious meals together. Cooking and eating together is often one of the most enjoyable parts of the voyage and adds to the genuine sense of community that comes with a traditional sailing holiday.
Comfortable cabins
The cabins have been carefully restyled and provide a comfortable place to retreat after a day on the water. Each cabin has its own washbasin and some storage space for clothing and personal belongings.
Thanks to the combination of authentic sailing, active participation, comfortable living spaces and a personal atmosphere, you will quickly feel at home aboard the Marie Galante. A sailing voyage on this historic schooner is far more than just a holiday – it is a shared adventure at sea.
