🔴 #LIVE STREAM: SAILING CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WORLD FINAL - Kiel 2025 📡 The SAILING Champions League World Final 2025 in Kiel starts on Friday and will be broadcast #LIVE by SailTracks on Saturday and S

As 2024 ends, we set sail again for the traditional Xmas and New Year sailors gathering on the Dutch Island Terschelling. As usual, sailing during winter is slightly more challenging when heavy winds, hail, rain, and wind gusts tease our Willem Johannes. We have an extra crew on board the 66-mile sail to the island and meet up with friends, both K9 as well as human :-) Celebrating Christmas and New Year on Terschelling has become a beloved tradition among Dutch sailors. The island offers a unique blend of winter sailing adventures, festive activities, and cozy island atmosphere during the holiday season. The marina comes alive with beautifully lit boats, creating a convivial atmosphere among sailors. New Year's Eve on Terschelling has grown from a tradition to a craze among sailors, with increasing popularity in recent years. The celebration is described as magical, featuring fireworks viewed from the dunes, ship horns blowing, and church bells ringing at midnight. Sailors gather in the harbour building to count down to the new year. The combination of winter sailing challenges, beautiful cloud-filled skies, and the friendly atmosphere keeps many sailors returning year after year to experience this unique holiday celebration. #terschelling #wintersailing #musto

Shortly after our 3-month Scandinavian adventure, we started the larger maintenance tasks we wanted to tackle: mainly painting the deck and the deckhouse. Since we faced some trouble in upholding the hull, wishing also to re-do the bottom painting, the obligatory 'CvO-keuring' (EU certification) shortly anyway and need to check out electrical stuff, we decided to book ourselves a spot at the 'Teerenstra-warf' in Den Helder. In this video, we bring together several weeks of work on Willem Johannes to make improvements to her as proper 'parents' should and get her in tiptop shape for a few years to come.....we hope :-) What is a CvO-keuring? In the Netherlands, a Certificate of Inspection (CvO) is mandatory for certain pleasure craft as a result of implementing European regulations. This requirement applies to vessels longer than 20 meters, those with a block size exceeding 100 cubic meters, and specific types of boats regardless of length, such as tugs, passenger ships, and vessels carrying hazardous materials. The Inland Waterways Act came into effect on July 1, 2009, with a 10-year transition period for existing vessels. Failure to obtain a valid CvO can result in significant consequences, including prohibition from independent sailing and a potential decrease in vessel value. The CvO certificate is valid for a maximum of 7 years and requires renewal through safety inspections. Vessels that applied for a CvO before December 30, 2018, benefited from a transitional arrangement with less stringent requirements. After this date, ships must meet all modern standards, which can be challenging for historical vessels. Stay tuned, for we soon will be setting sail again to the Dutch seas and Isles....because, x-mas is coming. #musto #maintenance #sailing

The Final Stretch We began our last significant leg of the journey with an early start, setting our alarm for 4:30 AM. The night before, we had moved our vessel, the WJ, to the floating jetty for an easy departure. At 5:45 AM, after coffee and final preparations, we cast off. The initial part of our journey was blessed with favorable winds, allowing us to sail with all sails at half wind. Our goal was to minimize engine use as much as possible. As we sailed southward, the wind shifted to ample and then downwind, eventually decreasing. To combat the increasing sway, we adjusted our sails, hauling in the mainsail and letting the mizzen and Genoa do the work. We implemented a watch system to ensure adequate rest during our 35-38 hour trip. The night brought its own challenges, with Pat nearly being "torpedoed" by several fishing boats. This led to course adjustments and a decision to change our route, passing above the wind farms and further up than through the reels. After 39 hours at sea, we finally dropped anchor near the lighthouse, a spot that had become familiar to us. The following day, we enjoyed some shore time, including a long walk with our dog Reef and a delicious pancake at a local eatery. Boisterous Anchor and Guest Visit The next day greeted us with grey skies and brisk winds. We spent the morning cleaning the boat thoroughly before heading ashore for a walk and to get groceries. In the afternoon, we welcomed guests aboard for drinks and dinner, which proved to be quite an adventure due to the heavy winds and rising waters. From Salt to Sweet Water Early the next morning, we set sail for Makkum, seeking fresh water. The journey was calm, with favourable tides allowing us to sail almost anything. We navigated through the Lorentz locks and moored at the long jetty in Makkum. The evening was spent dining with a friend at a local restaurant[1]. Exploring the IJsselmeer Our journey continued with a sail from Stavoren to Medemblik and back to Stavoren. The wind was more enthusiastic than expected, providing a nice exercise in tacking. We ended the day anchored off Stavoren, enjoying a peaceful evening[1]. A Day at Anchor We spent a tropically warm day at anchor near Stavoren. The morning was slow and relaxed, with Reef having spent the night on deck under the starry sky. We took the dinghy ashore for a walk and lunch, then enjoyed some sun on the foredeck before preparing dinner and capturing drone footage at sunset[1]. The Concluding Miles Our final day of sailing began early, with a 6:30 AM alarm. The breeze was good, allowing us to set all sails once we rounded the little barrels at Stavoren. It was a wonderful day under sail, covering 31 miles back to our home port of Monnickendam. As we sailed into the harbour, we were greeted warmly by our fellow harbour mates. Although our usual spot was occupied, we found a temporary berth nearby. We took Reef for a long walk and then spent time on the aft deck, reflecting on our beautiful trip and how well we had handled the minimal challenges we faced. Reflections and Future Plans Our Baltic Sea adventure was a testament to our teamwork and the capabilities of our vessel. We're already cautiously considering another longer trip, but first, we have a maintenance plan to address. The WJ needs a paint job, and we plan to have her underside painted, the keel checked, and the rigging inspected in the autumn/winter. This journey has reinforced our love for sailing and the sense of freedom it brings. From the starry nights at anchor to the challenges of navigating busy waters, every moment has contributed to an unforgettable experience. As we settle back into our home port, we're grateful for the memories made and excited for the adventures that lie ahead on the horizon.

We continued our exciting sailing journey along the Norwegian coast, making our way towards Denmark. Our adventure was filled with beautiful anchorages, challenging weather conditions, and memorable encounters. Sailing Along the Norwegian Coast We set sail early one morning, covering a distance of 20.6 miles with winds from the southeast at 6-11 knots. The weather was sunny and warm at 22 degrees. We enjoyed a lovely sailing day, making speeds between 4 and 7 knots with minimal wave action. Our dog, Reef, seemed to enjoy the experience as well[1]. We anchored in a rustic inlet near Arendal, surrounded by rock forests and a holiday park. We took Reef for walks and enjoyed a delicious dinner of salmon steak, asparagus, and jacket potato. We remained vigilant about ticks in the area. Exploring Bays and Towns The next day, we sailed 15 miles, including a 3-mile round trip. The weather was sunny and 23 degrees, with light southerly winds. We explored various bays and visited the town of Grimmstad for ice cream. We found a beautiful anchorage and enjoyed walks with Reef in the shore forests. Challenges and Adjustments We faced some challenges, including a night of heavy rain that filled our dinghy and a bout of illness for Reef. We had to clean the deck after Reef had an upset stomach, but he recovered well throughout the day. During our journey, we constantly monitored weather models to plan our route south. We considered departing for Nordeney or the Wadden Islands earlier than planned, aiming for a nice downwind course for the 258-mile journey. Sailing to Kristiansand We sailed 29 miles towards Kristiansand, navigating through exciting passages between rocks and small towns. We encountered some challenging weather, including thunderstorms, but managed to find a suitable anchorage near Kristiansand behind the island of Andholmen. We explored the area, visiting a government-subsidized wharf where historic ships are refurbished. We had interesting conversations with locals and visitors, including the consul general of the Norwegian Navy, who was curious about our boat[1]. Final Days in Norway In Kristiansand, we refueled and considered various mooring options. We ultimately decided to anchor near the harbor. We celebrated Robin's birthday with champagne in the city center and enjoyed a Thai steak dinner. We spent our last day in Norway preparing for our departure to Denmark. After a final exploration of a nearby beach and forest, we lifted anchor at 10 p.m. and set sail into the night with strong winds and high waves. Crossing to Denmark Our crossing to Denmark involved night watches and challenging conditions. We made good speed, sometimes reaching 10 knots. We had to deal with some chaos below deck as items shifted due to the boat's movement. As we approached the Danish coast, the wind and waves calmed. We celebrated Robin's birthday on board with presents and noodles for lunch. We contacted Esbjerg harbor to secure a spot for our arrival. Arrival in Esbjerg After two nights at sea, we arrived in Esbjerg, Denmark. We moored near a museum ship around 8:15 a.m. The sun was shining brightly, and the temperature was pleasant. We spent the day relaxing, walking, cleaning up, and enjoying a good meal before turning in early, tired but satisfied with our journey. Throughout our adventure, we enjoyed the beauty of the Norwegian coast, overcame sailing challenges, and created lasting memories. Our journey from Norway to Denmark was a testament to our seamanship and love for exploration.

We embarked on our journey on a sunny Sunday morning, departing from Stromstad (Sweden) towards Stavern (Norway), a voyage of 32 nautical miles. After an early start and the usual preparations, including a stop at the fuel station, we set course for the open sea. The wind was favorable, allowing us to hoist all sails shortly after departure, and we reveled in a delightful day of sailing along the impressive Norwegian coastline. During our voyage, we passed several other sailboats and enjoyed a lunch of shrimp salad. Our dog Rif seemed to be adapting well to sailing life, thanks to the travel medication we had purchased for him. As evening approached, we decided not to continue to Larvik but instead anchored in the bay in front of Stavern harbor. After anchoring, we savoured a drink and a meal before taking the dinghy ashore to explore the picturesque town. We discovered an old shipyard and barracks that had been partially converted into a hospitality venue and creative centre. In the harbour, we admired a collection of beautifully maintained wooden sloops. The night was somewhat restless due to the swell, but our anchor held firm. We spent most of the following day in and around Stavern, cheering on the Colin Archer racers as they arrived. We took walks on land, visited some galleries, and enjoyed the sun on the aft deck. The subsequent day, we set course for a fjord, anchoring at Nystrand after a 19-mile journey. It was a beautiful location where we could swim and hike in the mountainous forest along the coast. We even spotted a seal on a rock. Our journey continued with short legs along the Norwegian coast, regularly anchoring in idyllic bays and fjords. We enjoyed the tranquility and beautiful nature, but occasionally sought out the liveliness of small coastal towns. One of the highlights was our visit to Kragerø, a town of about 10,000 inhabitants that serves as a hub for the local population and the many owners of summer cottages in the area. We moored at a jetty near the supermarket and explored the vibrant town with its many shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlours. Our voyage then took us to Risør, where we docked in the harbour after an 11-mile journey. We enjoyed the atmosphere in the town, took walks along the coastline, and had pleasant encounters with other sailors and curious children. A special moment was passing a Norwegian submarine in the fjord. Throughout our journey, we occupied ourselves with boat maintenance, planning our next destinations, and enjoying Norwegian coastal life. We adapted to the rhythm of the sea, made new friends, and relished the unique experiences that sailing along the Norwegian coast offered us. Our dog Rif continued to adapt to life on board, although he sometimes found the busier harbours a bit overwhelming. We took his needs into account and ensured regular walks on land. As we sailed from harbour to harbour, we always kept an eye on the weather conditions and available anchorages. We learned about the challenges of navigating between the rocks and islets of the Norwegian coast and appreciated the tranquillity of secluded bays as much as the conviviality of the coastal towns. Our journey was a mix of active sailing days, quiet anchoring days, and land explorations. We enjoyed Norwegian hospitality, the beautiful nature, and the unique experience of sailing in these northern waters. With each mile we covered, our appreciation for the Norwegian coast grew, as did our desire to discover even more.

We embarked on an exciting journey through the Swedish fjords and coastal islands, experiencing a mix of beautiful scenery, challenging navigation, and memorable encounters. Our adventure took us from Gullholmen to Fjällbacka, the Koster Islands, and finally to Strömstad, as we prepared for our crossing into Norwegian waters. Gullholmen to Fjällbacka We set sail from Gullholmen, bidding farewell to our friends on the Gandalf. The weather was changeable, with sun, overcast skies, and even a bout of hard rain. We covered about 20 miles with winds from the south-west at 5-10 knots. Our journey took us through beautiful rocky passages, where we encountered some challenges. The plotter jammed in a tricky passage with unusual buoyage, forcing us to quickly resort to using our phone for navigation. The rain made the situation more difficult, but we persevered. Despite these obstacles, we found a pleasant mooring spot where we became the talk of the town. Many locals came to chat and inquire about our Waarschip (WJ). We enjoyed walks with our dog Reef, treated ourselves to a nice dinner, and marveled at the beautiful sunset. Summer in Sweden The next day brought perfect summer weather as we sailed to Fjällbacka, famous for its connection to crime novelist Camilla Läckberg and actress Ingrid Bergman. The route was breathtaking, winding through rock formations and past tiny towns with holiday homes built on and between rocks. We had an adrenaline-pumping moment navigating through Hamburgsund. This busy narrow passage with a car ferry proved challenging, as the ferry's signals were unclear, and it used cables that suddenly emerged from the water. We had to perform an emergency maneuver to avoid collision, but we managed to navigate safely through. In Fjällbacka, we anchored near a beautiful beach, perfect for walking Reef. The town itself was a bustling holiday resort with many shops, ice cream parlors, and bistros. Unexpected Encounter and Rainy Day We spent an extra day at anchor near Fjällbacka due to rainy weather. This gave us time to relax, catch up on some work, and make plans for our upcoming journey to Norway. Unexpectedly, we discovered that friends were vacationing nearby in Grebbestad. Although we couldn't bring our boat into the full harbour, we took the dinghy to meet them for coffee, which was a delightful surprise. Koster Islands Our next destination was the Koster Islands, Sweden's only marine national park with coral reefs. We motored most of the way due to unfavourable winds, taking turns navigating through the rock formations. We found a good anchorage on the north side of the island. On the island, we witnessed the vibrant holiday atmosphere. Children were swimming and playing, fathers were fishing, and small sailboats dotted the water with parents teaching their children to sail. We were particularly impressed by young children confidently operating motorized dinghies. We enjoyed dinner at the island hotel and explored potential snorkeling spots, capturing underwater footage with our Insta360 camera. Strömstad Our final stop in Swedish waters was Strömstad, where we needed to visit a vet for Reef's required worming treatment before entering Norway. We arrived early to secure a good spot in the marina. Strömstad proved to be a lively tourist town. The harbor almost encircled the entire town, with hotels and restaurants bustling with activity. The streets were filled with holidaymakers enjoying the summer atmosphere. We took care of necessary errands, including Reef's vet visit, shopping for supplies, and even a quick haircut for Robin. Preparing for Norway As we spent our last days in Sweden, we focused on preparing for our crossing into Norwegian waters. We stayed an extra day in Strömstad to stock up on supplies, as we had heard about the higher prices in Norway. We also took care of important administrative tasks. This included registering Reef with Swedish customs (which we had initially forgotten), reviewing Norwegian customs regulations, and ensuring all our paperwork was in order for potential inspections. Our last day in Sweden coincided with our 30th anniversary of being together. We celebrated with a relaxed day, enjoying the sunny weather and the lively atmosphere in the harbor. A kind Norwegian family even gifted us a dolphin candy after hearing about our hopes to see dolphins during our journey. As we prepared to set sail for Norway, we felt a mix of excitement and anticipation for the new adventures that awaited us in Norwegian waters. With our boat stocked, our dog cleared for entry, and favorable winds forecast, we were ready to embark on the next leg of our Nordic sailing adventure.

Sailing Adventure in Sweden We embarked on an exciting sailing journey through the beautiful Swedish archipelago, experiencing a mix of sunny days, stormy nights, and picturesque landscapes. Our adventure took us through various harbors, anchorages, and islands, each offering unique experiences and challenges. Hunting Island and Svanesund We began our journey from "Hunting Island," named for the hunting instincts it evoked in our dog, Reef. Sailing northward, we enjoyed a perfect wind for our course, rippling through Sweden's beautiful green fjords at a nice speed of 5 knots[1]. We marvelled at the stunning scenery, lunching on onion soup and delicious flat manna-like half pizza rolls with herb butter in the sun on the aft deck. Our destination was an association marina, where we encountered an issue with the Dockspot app not being suitable for boats over 15 meters. We cleverly booked two spots of 9 meters each to accommodate our vessel[1]. In the evening, we learned about the potential dangers of commercial shipping causing high waves in the fjords, which can lead to damage to boats and infrastructure. Thunderstorm and Anchorage The next day, we set sail again, enjoying the beautiful fjords and indulging in the Swedish tradition of Fika (coffee break with snacks). However, our peaceful journey was interrupted by an unexpected thunderstorm. We quickly took in all the sails and continued on engine, taking precautions by unplugging equipment and storing some in the safe and oven. After passing under a 26-meter-high bridge, we found a beautiful anchorage opposite a campsite with a marina. We spent the afternoon relaxing on a small beach, letting Reef play and swim, which seemed to boost his energy after a period of poor appetite. Gullholmen and Stormy Weather As the weather turned rainy and windy, we headed to Gullholmen, where we encountered challenging mooring conditions due to strong tailwinds. We were warmly welcomed by friends on another boat, the Gandalf, and the helpful harbourmaster. We spent time exploring the charming island, enjoying local cuisine, and socializing with fellow sailors, including a Dutch couple from Monnickendam. The following days in Gullholmen were a mix of relaxation and preparation for incoming stormy weather. We caught up on chores, walked around the island, and enjoyed the company of our sailing companions. As the storm approached, we secured our boat and spent an evening watching a European Cup football match with friends. Stormy Night and Aftermath The night brought intense winds reaching up to 50 knots, requiring us to check on the boat multiple times. In the early morning, we assisted a German sailor whose boat had come loose due to the storm, showcasing the camaraderie among sailors in challenging conditions. Final Days and Future Plans Our last day in Gullholmen was filled with various activities, including attempting repairs, shopping, and even a fun rock climbing excursion with friends. Despite some minor injuries and bruises, we enjoyed the physical activity and celebrated with a beer at the local pub. As we prepared to continue our journey northward, we reflected on the diverse experiences we've had so far - from peaceful sailing through beautiful fjords to weathering intense storms. Our next destination is planned to be an anchor bay about 20 miles away, but as we've learned, plans can always change in the world of sailing. Throughout our adventure, we've embraced the Swedish coastal lifestyle, enjoyed local traditions like Fika, and formed connections with fellow sailors. Our journey has been a perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and the occasional challenge, all set against the backdrop of Sweden's stunning archipelago.

Unexpected Challenge (our worst disaster) Our sailing adventure takes an unexpected turn when we accidentally hit an underwater rock near the island of Tjörn. The keel is damaged, but thankfully, the boat's design prevents any water from entering. We manage to reach the harbor of Angeviken, where we receive tremendous support from the local community. With the help of a diver and the harbor's crane, we manage to realign the keel foundation. Though it's a stressful experience, we're grateful for the kindness of strangers and the resilience of our boat. Ockerö and Marstrand We start our trip in Ockerö, where we spend a day editing videos, playing games, and preparing for our journey. The next day, we set sail for Marstrand, enjoying a beautiful 14-mile trip through narrow stretches of water. We anchor near a rocky island, where we have a lovely breakfast on deck and explore the surroundings. Marstrand proves to be a delightful town with its 13th-century history and charming white houses. We enjoy the local fish soup and take in the sights before planning our next leg of the journey[1]. Island Hopping and Relaxation After our misadventure, we spend some time in Angeviken, enjoying the local hospitality and exploring the area. We visit a sculpture exhibition in Pilani and cycle around the beautiful countryside. Our journey continues to Karingon, a picturesque island recommended by our new friend Anders. Here, we enjoy the idyllic town, have a delicious dinner at Peterson's Krog, and even witness bioluminescent plankton at night. Gothenburg and Farewells We return to Öckerö, which serves as our base for a day trip to Gothenburg. While some of us explore the city, others stay behind to rest and catch up on work. It's a bittersweet moment as we say goodbye to some of our crew members who need to return home. Exploring Orust With a smaller crew, we set out to explore the waters around the island of Orust. We find a beautiful anchorage between Tjörn and Orust, where we enjoy the tranquillity of the archipelago. Our days are filled with sailing, exploring rocky islets, and watching Reef, our adventurous dog, as he adapts to life on the boat.

Our journey took us from Dyvig to Juelsminde, then to Tunø, Anholt, and finally to the Swedish island of Öckerö, covering over 200 nautical miles in total. Dyvig to Juelsminde Our adventure began early one morning in Dyvig. After a quick coffee and a walk with our dog Reef, we set sail for what promised to be a beautiful day on the water. The weather started cloudy but cleared up as we progressed, with temperatures reaching 18-19 degrees Celsius. We played with the sails throughout the day, adjusting them to maximize our speed in the changing wind conditions. Our journey took us through Middelfart, where we encountered strong currents. Initially planning to stop at Endelave, we decided to push on to Juelsminde, covering 52 miles in total. Arriving at Juelsminde around 19:15, we anchored and took Reef for a walk on the beach. The harbor was bustling with activity, offering various amenities including an ice cream parlor, hamburger bar, bistro, and shops. Just as we finished paying for our berth, the skies opened up with a sudden downpour, sending everyone scurrying for cover. Juelsminde to Tunø The next day greeted us with glorious sunshine. We woke early to the sight of a porpoise swimming peacefully in the harbor mouth. After a leisurely breakfast on deck and some friendly conversations with fellow sailors, we set our course towards the Danish islands of Samsø or Tunø. Before departing, we topped up our diesel, having used about 200 liters since docking in Stavoren in May. The sailing conditions were perfect, with wind speeds of 12 knots allowing us to reach 7.5 knots. We ultimately decided on Tunø, arriving around 15:30[1]. Tunø charmed us with its quaint village, unique church tower doubling as a lighthouse, and numerous stalls selling fresh produce. We enjoyed a relaxing evening on the back deck, chatting with passing admirers of our boat. Tunø to Anholt Our next leg was a long 60-mile journey to Anholt. We set off at 7:00 AM, hoping for stronger winds than we encountered. The initial slow progress and rocking motion made for a challenging start, but we eventually decided to motor-sail to make better time[1]. We arrived at Anholt harbor at 17:00, skillfully maneuvering into a tight spot between two ships. The harbor was busy with boats struggling with the mooring buoy system, which we fortunately didn't have to use. Exploring Anholt We spent the next day exploring Anholt, often called "Denmark's Hawaii" due to its beautiful beaches. The island, home to only 160 people, boasts diverse landscapes including forests, dunes, and even a desert-like area. We enjoyed long walks with Reef on the beach and cycled around the island, taking in the wooden forest houses and the village center. Anholt to Sweden Our final major leg took us from Anholt to the Swedish coast. We set sail at 10:00 AM, facing challenging conditions with winds in the 5 Beaufort range and high waves. Our dog Reef unfortunately got seasick, but we managed to make good progress until the wind died down in the afternoon. After a long day of sailing and motor-sailing, we finally anchored in peaceful Swedish waters at 19:30. We explored a rocky island by dinghy before settling in for the night. Arrival at Öckerö Our last short trip brought us to the island of Öckerö, where we met up with Dutch friends. We arrived just in time for Midsummer celebrations, joining the locals for barbecues and festivities. Our friend Rob joined us here, marking the end of this leg of our journey and the beginning of new adventures. Throughout our trip, we covered over 200 nautical miles, experienced a range of sailing conditions, and visited beautiful Danish and Swedish islands. From the challenges of long sailing days to the joys of exploring new places, our journey was filled with unforgettable experiences that reminded us why we love life at sea. #sailing #gear #sailboat

The morning starts with a delightful encounter with a seal sporting a charming red crest at the jollen spot. After some last-minute preparations, including shopping and dog walks, the crew casts off at 11:15, just before the tide comes in. The initial leg of the journey sees the boat making impressive speeds of over 8 knots, thanks to the tide and a favorable downwind course and the strategic use of the Genoa/jib. Around 2 PM, we smoothly navigate through the Brünsbuttel lock, a solo passage that costs them €21, paid online in advance. As we enter the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal (NOK), the weather remains mild with only small, wispy showers. The cutter jib proves to be an excellent choice for the sheltered, winding channel, providing consistent speed and easy handling. This calm passage is particularly enjoyable for Reef, the ship's canine companion, who relishes the freedom to roam the deck and observe the abundant birdlife. Despite reaching Channel Gieselau at 18:30, we decide to press on, aiming to make significant progress through the NOK. They notice an increase in motorhomes along the shore, with more people waving as they pass. By 20:00, they reach Rendsburg, where they find a welcoming berth at the BYC harbor, a fortunate choice given the poor maintenance and lack of availability at our usual port. The following day brings a more leisurely start, with the crew and dog waking at 7:30 and taking their time to depart. The navigation proves challenging due to heavy ascending freight traffic, requiring frequent adjustments to their speed. Despite these obstacles, they manage to join a lock alongside a large vessel and several other small boats, a slightly nerve-wracking but ultimately successful maneuver. Concerns about Reef's wellbeing and the crew's own fatigue lead to a change in plans. Instead of pushing on to Maasholm, we opt for a shorter journey to Laboe Harbour. Here, they find a pleasant berth and enjoy some sunshine. The evening is capped off with a refreshing walk for Reef on the Hundestrand and dinner at an Italian restaurant by the harbor. The next leg of their journey takes them from Germany to Denmark. An early start sees them departing Laboe at 10:00, initially sailing at a leisurely 5 knots before picking up speed as the wind increases. Despite some showers, we make good progress, reaching speeds between 7 and 8.5 knots. They arrive in Sonderborg at 16:30, navigating through a bridge opening before mooring at the high quay. The following day in Sonderborg is spent at a relaxed pace, exploring the lively city center and preparing for the upcoming Midsommer celebrations. They even encounter Bodil, a famous Norwegian Forest Cat known to roam the town. After restocking supplies, albeit at inflated prices, they set sail for the Dyvig anchorage, maintaining their policy of minimal engine use. At the anchorage, they enjoy the peacefulness of being at anchor, taking Reef for dinghy rides and walks ashore. They indulge in some wine at a pricey but charming hotel restaurant before returning to their boat for dinner. The final day of this video finds us still at Dyvig, where inclement weather encourages a day of relaxation on board. We make a morning trip ashore for supplies and enjoy Reef's newfound enthusiasm for dinghy rides. The day is spent on various boat maintenance tasks, route planning, and simply enjoying the tranquility of our anchorage. #shallowwater #sailing #adventure

From Monnickendam to Cuxhaven Setting Sail from Monnickendam Our journey begins on a beautiful day in Monnickendam, with partly cloudy skies and temperatures around 17-18 degrees Celsius. The wind is blowing from the north at 16-20 knots, perfect conditions for our 28-mile sail to Medemblik. The boat heels significantly as we reach speeds of up to 7.5 knots. It's during these moments that we realize there are always a few more things we should have secured! By 15:00, we reach the imposing lock at Enkhuizen. Instead of stopping, we decide to push on to Medemblik, partly under sail and partly under engine power. This positions us well for tomorrow's planned sail to Makkum or beyond, with favorable winds forecasted. Our new self-tacking rig on the cutter works wonderfully, though the new "red line" slips a bit on the winch. It's manageable, but we make a mental note for future adjustments. Medemblik to Makkum: A Leisurely Sail We wake up early, thanks to our enthusiastic puppy Rif, who decides 6:30 AM is the perfect time for a walk around the castle. After coffee, crackers, and a quick trip to the local bakery, we cast off at 10:00 AM for a relaxed, broad reach to Makkum. With all sails set except the cutter, we glide along at an average speed of 3.5 knots. We navigate around the wind turbines and arrive in Makkum at 16:30. During our sail, we receive news that Bram has been sworn in as a civilian-military, filling us with pride. Rif spends most of the journey sleeping contentedly under the table below deck. We dock at the long pier in Makkum, paying €29.50 for the night. Early Start to Vlieland Our alarm goes off at 5:15 AM, much to Rif's confusion. We're up early to catch the favorable tide to Vlieland and to pass through the Lorentz lock before it closes for rush hour traffic on the Afsluitdijk. We set sail at 6:00 AM, enjoying the beautiful morning breeze and sunrise. With only the genoa up, we make good speed towards Vlieland, averaging 6-7 knots. En route, we admire several tall ships passing by. At 11:30, we navigate the narrow harbor entrance of Vlieland, contending with strong currents. We dock at the floating L-pier and enjoy the "harbor cinema" as other boats arrive, some more gracefully than others. Overnight Sail to Helgoland Originally planning to sail to Thyboron, we decide that the 40-hour journey might be too much for Rif's first long trip. Instead, we plot a course to Helgoland, with the intention of later exploring the Eider River route towards Kiel. We depart Vlieland at 11:30, setting the mizzen and genoa for a nearly downwind course. The sun shines as we average 6.5 knots along the Wadden Islands towards the German Bight. Due to the previous day's strong winds, we encounter some significant waves, causing the boat to "camel" (rock up and down). We begin our watch system early. Rif adapts well, though he doesn't relieve himself due to the boat's movement. When Patty sleeps, Rif rests under the bed where it's calmer. During the night, we face a challenge when the genoa sheet gets caught under the anchor winch. We also realize the dinghy needs better securing. We enjoy a dinner of macaroni before nightfall. Around 8:00 AM, we approach Bremerhaven and prepare to cross two busy traffic zones and an anchorage area. The next 2.5 hours prove challenging with 3-4 meter "washing machine" waves rolling us in all directions. We lose six plates despite our best efforts to secure everything. Poor Rif needs frequent "catching" in his basket. We encounter three squalls with wind gusts up to 32 knots but maintain good speeds of 8-9 knots with some engine assistance. At 10:30, we enter Helgoland's harbor, thankful to dock at a floating pier rather than the wall. Change of Plans: Helgoland to Cuxhaven We wake early to strong winds, forcing us to reconsider our plan to sail up the Eider River. With westerly winds making the approach dangerous, we plot a new course to the Kiel Canal via Cuxhaven. Departing Helgoland at 7:00 AM, we set all sails to maintain stability in the 3-4 meter waves. It turns into a fantastic sailing day, especially as we enter the Elbe, reaching speeds of nearly 12 knots with the help of the current. However, our exhilarating sail comes to an abrupt end just before Cuxhaven. With 22-24 knots of wind and sails fully trimmed, we hear a loud "PLOP" and watch as the genoa flaps away from the ship - the foresail sheet has snapped! We quickly furl the genoa and retrieve the sheet from the water. Under engine power, we make our way into Cuxhaven at noon. We secure a berth and remove the sail before the predicted wind gusts arrive. A kind Danish sailor helps us dock, and we enjoy a beer and conversation about his upcoming trip to the Netherlands. Patty contacts a local sailmaker who agrees to repair our sail on Monday, giving us two unexpected but welcome rest days in Cuxhaven. #sailing #sailboat #boatlife

It all began on a cold winter day when we set sail on the Willem Johannes towards Terschelling. Our hearts were filled with anticipation and excitement, but unfortunately, the strong winds had other plans. We had to divert to Enkhuizen, a pleasant place but not quite the island experience we longed for. Nevertheless, we still had hope and remained determined to reach our destination. After a few days of waiting for better weather, we braved the crossing to Terschelling once again. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a captivating sight. The harbor was illuminated with beautiful, colorful boats shining like stars in the Christmas and New Year spirit. We quickly joined the other boats and lit our Christmas lights on board. The sailing community felt like one big family. Sailors from different ships come together in the harbor, decorate their boats, and seek each other's company. Together, they engage in activities to get through the dark days before Christmas, after Christmas, until and after New Year's Eve. The warmth and joy we shared made the cold winter days bearable and filled our hearts with happiness. Unfortunately, the days after New Year's were less favorable for Willem Johannes. A storm named "Henk" swept across the Netherlands, posing a setback. During an attempt to assist the sister ship Gandalf, the skipper of the Willem Johannes, Robin, accidentally stepped into a hole and broke his upper arm. This meant that from January 3rd, we were in medical mode and tried to sail the ship back to Monnickendam with a one-armed captain. Despite the setbacks and challenges along the way, we are immensely grateful for the help we received from the sailing community to safely return to our home port. During this homebound journey, the sailing community provided us support and companionship. As we are halfway through January, we look back on an adventurous Christmas and New Year and cherish our memories. We are already looking forward to the next Christmas and New Year celebration on Terschelling in 2024, where we hope to experience new adventures and break no more arms ?

Welcome aboard the Willem Johannes, where we're installing a Separett dry toilet. This innovative waterless solution is perfect for boats. The Separett dry toilet, such as the Villa 9010 or the newer Tiny model, uses a urine-diverting system to separate liquid and solid waste. This clever design helps minimize odors and reduces the frequency of emptying, making it ideal for life on the water. The Separett dry toilet boasts several key features that make it an excellent choice for marine applications. Its odor-free operation is ensured by a built-in fan that expels odors and moisture, guaranteeing a fresh-smelling bathroom. Installation is straightforward, requiring only a ventilation pipe and a urine drain hose, with minimal plumbing needed. Maintenance is low, as the toilet doesn't use water or chemicals, making it both simple to upkeep and environmentally friendly. The versatile power options allow it to run on both AC and DC electricity, perfect for various marine setups. By installing a Separett dry toilet on the Willem Johannes, we're embracing a more sustainable and practical approach to onboard waste management. It's an excellent choice for boaters looking to reduce water consumption, eliminate the need for pump-outs, and enjoy a more comfortable sailing experience. Whether cruising canals or sailing the open seas, a Separett dry toilet offers a reliable, eco-friendly solution that's as easy to use as it is to maintain. Check out the details to the toilet on separett.com Join us in this shitty business :-) #separett #drytoilet #sailingadventures

Step 1: Top sailing day on IJssel- and Markermeer Distance: 45 miles Weather: Sunny with a light shower in the evening Wind: 15-18 kts NW Tight by 9 a.m. After coffee and breakfast, we're in front of the lock and we're allowed in immediately. It's blowing heavily outside. Lovely. Funny how we experience it so differently since we have the WJ and are happy with all winds above 13 kts. Just outside the lock we set all the sails and, sure enough. The WJ is soon spinning at over 6/7 knots through the then always weird choppy waves of the IJsselmeer. By noon we are already through the lock at Enkhuizen. And all this while we have to/want to wait for a lock due to a lot of jostling in front of and in the lock. We were under the illusion that, contrary to our own expectations, we might reach the bridge at Schellingwoude before 16:00. Unfortunately, the wind subsides a little and we refuse to add the engine ? . So we arrive at Schellingwoude at 16.20 and calmly put the WJ more on the brakes until at 18.00 the bridge turns and we can pass through the Oranjesluizen. Two locks are open for everything to pass through and of course there are again plenty of boaters who find waiting for their turn a bit tricky. Oh well... fortunately everyone can get through and at 19.30 we decide to measure up at the Marina Amsterdam where we have a steak at Loetje not long after. Tomorrow we will sail to IJmuiden around 8.30 a.m. ..... for another long sailing day to Scheveningen. Step 2: Sailing with a big Z to Scheveningen Distance: 30 miles Wind: 18-26 kts W later more SW Weather: sunny At 8.00 Pat and Gaffel walk out and via the Hema for tasty sandwiches the ladies get on board at 8.25. Before then, everything on the WJ had been seafixed again, although it always remains fascinating how after a sort of 'vertical' sailing day, stuff still managed to move or land itself. Behind every cupboard door we open after a nice swinging trip, there is something 'on edge'. Anyway. It's not that far then. Together with some other sailors who want to go out to sea at around 11.00 am, we race south towards the locks of IJmuiden, which we can also pass through fairly quickly. Then a bit of rocking starts with some nose-dives before you really get through the surf. Before we are out of the hole, we have set all the sails and are heading south along the clear beaches towards Scheveningen. Again, we do wonderful speeds on this high course and the WJ hangs nicely with her hanging board except for 10 centimetres in the water. What a great day. The 23 miles fly by in no time. We have to cross a bit upwind to regain some height and at Scheveningen we already witness spectacular kite surfers with foils literally and figuratively flying past in front of us. We sail into the harbour and get a great spot (head of CD pier). At 17.00 we are sitting with a tidy ship, at least.... Sort of if you don't count the insides of some cupboards for a moment, with wine in the sun on the aft deck. We really do have a rotten life ??? #scheveningen #sweet #salt

Step 1: From Ameland to Vlieland: the W of Willem Distance sailed: 40 miles Wind: N-NW, 6-11 kts Weather: ?? 24 degrees Engine hours: 5 After (unfortunately) some more work for Patty, we set sail at high tide at 10.30am. Robin and Gaffel did some final shopping. So we sail out with the current and can take the short route this time because of the high tide. It's a lovely sail, unfortunately because of the sails we don't do much yet. At Ameland, we want to sail a little further out to the 10-metre line, so that we then have a nice sailed high-wind course to Vlie. The depth on the (very recently updated) navionics indicates that we have between 8 and later 4 metres of water under the keel (with low tide and it is not). However..... Patty reports that the depth gauge indicates some 3.5-4 metres less than on the chart. We are not amused. We had put out the keel a bit and we pull it back in. Eventually the depth gauge diverges further and then the shallowest is yet to come. We decide not to risk it and learn to turn around. Back, around the shallows that do show on the chart and an hour later we are back to square one ??. Anyway. 'Tis nice weather and we are in no hurry. The rest of the trip is top-notch. Aft current on the sail to Vlie, sunshine, low waves and with current also around 18.00 the 'path' through to Vlie. We put the WJ at anchor and what an amazing spot and tranquillity. A real treat. A quick dinghy ride to shore for Gaffer and then chicken with salad. Top day Step 2: From salt to sweet Weather: partly cloudy Wind: SW 12 kts Distance: 22 miles Bunkered: 300 litres We raise anchor at 7.00 and sail away from Vlieland with a nice current with us, our destination being Franeker. We want to go in for a bit as the wind will be quite strong for 2 days and we would like to be on a quiet and peaceful silent island in the Alde Faenen near Grou. Since tomorrow also looks like a rainy day, this sounds like a nice place to sail on to after Franeker. Besides, Franeker is cute and we can replenish some supplies there. We can pass through the narrow lock at Harlingen immediately, bunker some diesel again afterwards and are in Franeker by lunchtime. There we do a tour, drink a cup of coffee (the first drizzle reports) and come across an electric folding bike on offer. We buy it...although picking it up is a bit of a hassle, as they broke a cable at the maintenance/enrichment service and now the bike has to be sent away. Anyway.... An otherwise lovely quiet day and a lovely quiet evening. Step 3: Continuing with island hopping Weather: Rain and very occasionally dry Distance: 17 miles Engine hours: 5/6 We leave Franeker at 10.30 am after getting fresh bread and soon the rain falls mega enthusiastically on Robin's lovely new Musto suit ???. Patty gets to work inside on household chores (mentally assisted by Gaffer) and makes a new YouTube video va the past few days. We keep in touch with Angelique and Bert as they will also be around for the weekend. Who knows, maybe we can meet up. We are heading for an island in the Alde Faenen. After all, our theme has now become island hopping this holiday. The Marrekrite islands are so beautiful and quiet. That does appeal to us for the next 2 days of bad weather and strong winds. We moor at 15.00 and after walking around the island with Gaffel, we take it easy. #Ameland #aldefeanen #Vlieland

Thursday, 13 July Weather: Sunny, 20 degrees Wind: SW 16-27 kts Distance: 30 miles (ish) Engine hours: 2.5 Departure: 06:15 a.m. Arrival: 2.15pm The alarm clock rings early, 05.00. Gaff feels 'the mood' already and is reluctant to walk. Clever little dog. We do a cheese cracker, set out some grab food and 2 thermos jugs of water and tea. At 6.15, very sweet neighbours got up to cast us loose and wave us off. The navionics had calculated that after sailing out between Terschelling and Vlieland, we could choose the cut-off route, but we'd rather not. Result: 5 miles further out with high waves and wind against. This costs us much more time than planned anyway, to the benefit of later sailing comfort (especially for the dog). After all, around shallows the waves are much higher and we are already going out before the patch, so the more comfortable the better. We decide, because of the upwind course with lots of wind, to unfurl only the genoa. Unfortunately, we still have current against us until 13:00 and then get m with us until Nordeney. However, this also results in us doing 'only' 6/6.5 kts of speed. Jokingly, every time we look to starboard we shout: 'look, there you have Terschelling'....hihi. We have a wonderful sailing day. The WJ is great. The sun is shining. We are doing 6.5 kts over ground on a single sail against the current and, despite the big waves from astern, it is fine. Still, as is our custom, just before a first alternative, we check the wind, forecast and route...where are we, what can we expect, how are we in it, what is the ship doing and what do we like. After all, it is and remains a holiday. We see that although the current has yet to come with us, we still have 11 hours to go and have already sailed for 5.5 hours. We see that the wind is only getting stronger, instead of decreasing as predicted, and we know that we will reach the approach to Nordeney, which you want to sail with full concentration when it's light, now in the dark, with probably even higher waves than we had anticipated. We decide to branch off to Ameland, have never been there before, so how nice to discover it. We call and the WJ is welcome. The route there is challenging because of sandbanks and shallows, but great because of the views and the seals on the slabs. Just before entering the harbour, we get wind gusts of 27 kts across and run just outside the channel just before the harbour entrance and thus a bit stuck. Fortunately, with a blow backwards we were quickly released and moored. That turned out to be a challenge, because we got 'help' who let the stern line slip.....sigh..... we soon pull those small bollards out with the WJ anyway, so that doesn't help when you have to correct with your engine...enfin.... Never a dull moment shall we say. We legguh and after a glass of wine we charge for 3 days (gulp....).... because we just want to chill for a few days. Since we met 29 years ago today, we eat a simple meal on shore at the harbour restaurant. Afterwards, a quick WJ sweeten up and snore in time.

Departure Monnickendam: 7.15am (Saturday, July 8) Distance covered: 55 miles Wind: O/NO 17 kts later 4 kts Weather: ?? 30 degrees Crew: Ro, Pat, Rob, Danillo, Gaffel We left Monnickendam with a nice breeze. To get to Enkhuizen sailing. We first made a small turn towards the horse of Marken and then in a nice straight line to Enkhuizen. All sails up and we're doing just under 7 knots. The lock went fine and we wanted to wave to Marcel and Astrid, but we were looking at the wrong shore side?. Meanwhile, they took a nice picture of the WJ. The sun was already burning briskly and it was busy on the water. Not surprisingly, of course. We have a lovely chill sailing day, but just before Medemblik we do adjust the engine to make some more speed. The wind is already dropping and our speed proportionally to 3.5 kts. With quite a few miles to go to Den Helder and the Stevin lock in between, we want to speed up a bit. Unfortunately, on arrival at Stevin, the lock turns out to be out of order. Oops. We put the WJ on the brakes and take a refreshing dip. Just under 45 minutes later, the problem is solved and, after the outward and return trip, we can go along. In the lock, all sorts of things happened. Among them was a boat with a German couple that got stuck sideways. The skipper tried to avoid a collision course, which almost succeeded, and ended up next to another ship. His wife had not yet realised this and was still trying to get lines ashore. 'Rina, du darfst an die andere seite sein'. And so things worked out after all. After sailing out, we arrived on a tight tidal sea. The wind was completely gone. So everything on the engine. We spotted a porpoise and 2 seals during a lovely sail. At the KMJC, we were already awaited and after another splash and a drink, we had dinner at the Naval Yacht Club. The boys then disembarked. A lovely start to the holiday.

60-foot SS Willem Johannes is sailing through Friesland in the spring of 2023, well, at least some of the small-town villages. Do we fit in those small waters and locks? It's an adventure to see. Friesland, known as the water province of the Netherlands, offers a unique sailing experience with its vast network of interconnected lakes, canals, and picturesque towns. The region is home to iconic routes like the Elfstedentocht, which transforms from a legendary ice-skating trail in winter to a serene boating route in summer. Sailing here means gliding past historic towns like Sneek, Sloten, and Workum while enjoying the tranquil beauty of nature reserves such as Alde Feanen. With abundant mooring spots, including the scenic *Marrekrite* locations, Friesland ensures a seamless journey through its waterways. #Lemmer #Grouw #friesland

Willem Johannes is a 60 foot Dutch built sailcutter. She's taking you on a journey this week. First stop: #Markerwadden #sailing #sailinglife #watersport #varen #wonenophetwater