The Morgenster was launched in 1919 as a sailing herring lugger under the name De Vrouw Maria (SCH 324). In 1927, the ship underwent an extension and was fitted with a motor, after which it was renamed Morgenster.
When it was slated for demolition in 1993, Marian and Harry Muter took over the ship and restored it with great craftsmanship. In June 2008, the Morgenster found a new purpose as a brig for sail training. Since then, it has been active worldwide as a training and passenger ship.
Sailing Adventure with Character
The Morgenster is rigged as a traditional clipper brig – a rigging style that dates back to the time of the American struggle for independence. These fast and agile ships were able to evade the slower English warships of their era and are the ancestors of the legendary clippers. Today, you have the chance to take the helm of such a ship yourself. Feel the wind fill the sails, experience its speed and agility, and taste history – not from a book, but with your own hands.
Sailing on the Morgenster means finding balance – both literally and figuratively. Working with the wind, the waves, and the sails is not just a technical skill, but also an emotional experience. The constant adjustment between harnessing power and surrendering to nature makes this experience truly unique. That is why sailing is done as much as possible under wind power, and the engine is used only when absolutely necessary. This way, you experience the purest form of sailing – sustainable, honest, intense, and fully connected with the elements.
Whether you are a guest or a trainee, you will go home with more than just wonderful memories. You will develop technical knowledge, learn to work as a team, grow in self-confidence, and strengthen your awareness of the environment. Skills you carry with you for a lifetime – at sea and on land.
What You Can Experience Onboard
Onboard the Morgenster, it’s not just about sailing – it’s a complete experience. Whether you join an Atlantic crossing, take part in the famous Tall Ships Races, book a relaxing sailing holiday, or go on a day trip with up to 90 guests – the ship offers an authentic and active sailing experience.
The crew encourages guests to participate as much as possible in life onboard, as if they were crew members. In practice, this works excellently and creates a strong sense of connection. Participation is entirely voluntary, however. Instructions must only be followed in clear safety-related situations.
Everyone can and is welcome to join in: hoisting sails, steering, tying knots, climbing the masts, or venturing onto the bowsprit net for a splash of salt in your face. The combination of traditional sailing, personal attention, and teamwork creates unique moments on the water.
Accommodation and Interior Spaces
The Morgenster offers comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to 36 trainees on longer voyages. For our more luxurious sailing holidays, the number of guests is limited to 24, and sometimes even just 16 guest crew members..
Cabins
The cabins onboard the Morgenster are simple, comfortable, and functional. There are both four-person and two-person cabins, all equipped with heating, forced ventilation, hot and cold running water, and 230V power outlets.
Guests also have access to limited wardrobe space and storage under the bed.
Sanitation
Onboard the Morgenster, there are separate sanitary facilities for ladies and gentlemen. The ladies’ area combines a shower and toilet with a sink. The gentlemen’s area has a urinal, a sink, and a separate shower and toilet space. There are also 2 toilets on deck.
Dayroom (salon)
The dayroom is the central meeting space for guests onboard. There is seating for 45 people at tables, with comfortable benches along the walls. Additional seating is available on the so-called ‘pirate chests,’ which also contain games, musical instruments, and dress-up clothes. There is also a piano, and a retractable screen with a projector for presentations.
Additionally, there is a small bar with a tap for chilled drinking water – ideal in warm weather.
The dayroom is multifunctional: a place to eat, relax, learn, make music, or simply be together.
Crew
The permanent crew consists of a captain, 2 mates, a boatswain, a purser, a cook, and is often supplemented by volunteers and interns. Together, they ensure a safe, educational, and welcoming atmosphere onboard. Whether it’s navigating on the open sea, maintaining the rigging, or making sure the coffee is hot, every crew member plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable sailing experience.
The crew pays great attention to the guests – more than just sailing. On some voyages, they also organize activities and excursions onshore and personally guide them. This gives the entire journey, both at sea and on land, a cohesive and well-cared-for character.
Food & Drink
The well-equipped galley allows the cook to prepare tasty meals even in rough seas. The guest crew helps with preparation and washing up where needed. The cook prepares three nutritious meals daily, with an extra snack at 4:00 PM and toasted sandwiches during night sailing
On every visit ashore, the cook returns with a supply of fresh vegetables and fruit, ensuring that every meal is not only tasty but also fresh. With well-stocked freezers of quality meat and the opportunity to catch fish along the way, the cook always manages to serve something delicious and surprising
Step aboard this wondrous world on the Morgenster and book your sailing trip now with Rederij van Linschoten
