Netherlands
A Land of the Sea: Netherlands
The first things that come to mind when the Netherlands is mentioned are colorful tulip gardens, unique cheese varieties, famous wooden clogs and of course Amsterdam's wild nightlife. On the other hand, the Netherlands is a sea country that promises you unique routes on your boat vacation with its coastline, port cities and canals stretching from the Zeeland region in the southwest to Groningen in the northeast. The nature of the Netherlands will fascinate you with its characteristic scenery and picturesque villages on your boat vacation.
Although it is small in terms of area, there is no place on earth that it has not reached by sea. Ships have been sent all over the world in this country, the sea has shaped life throughout history. Since the first embankments built 800 years ago against the tides of the North Sea, the Netherlands, whose one-quarter is below sea level and half is only one meter above sea level, has been constantly striving to preserve its current geographical conditions. gave. The canals, the result of this struggle, will accompany you during your yacht vacation, sometimes as shelters where you can breathe from the open seas covered with fluffy waves, and sometimes as waterways that allow you to visit the magnificent Dutch cities without setting foot on land.
If it's your first adventure in the Adriatic Sea, you can choose one of the Southern Adriatic destinations. Starting from the middle network cities of Split and Dubrovnik, the Dalmatian coast is famous for its beautiful islands, historical monuments and nightlife. You can also experience great Croatian cuisine in many local restaurants.
Many islands are half a day's distance from each other, and many charter routes offer a one-week trip between the islands of Hvar, Korcula, Vis and Brac. While the South Coast seems to appeal more to the young, you can find many activities that appeal to sailors and children of all ages.
A Little History A Little Sea: Zeeland
Zeeland, located in the southwestern part of the country, consisting of long peninsulas extending to the west, is one of the most popular yacht charter destinations in the Netherlands. The region is famous for its clear sea, beautiful beaches and delicious seafood. Vlissingen on the North Sea coast, “sea vacation is not without a beach”. A good choice for those who say. If you are looking forward to sailing the canals and visiting an authentic Dutch city, you can give priority to Middelburg. The city, the capital of Zeeland, will impress you with its historical brick-walled houses along the canal. One of the most important architectural works of the Netherlands, the 15th century gothic town hall is one of the must-sees during your visit. Wandering the narrow and winding alleys, visiting the market place and climbing the 90-meter-high monastery tower Lange Jan are good options for a full day in Middelburg. The Veerse Meer lagoon, which you will reach by following the canal; It is one of the popular destinations for sea holiday lovers with its large and small islands and unique anchorage points. The Goes Renaissance style houses on its shores are places that deserve to be visited for unique seafood in Yerseke. Zierikzee, the port city on the opposite shore, is one of Zeeland's must-stop stops. Do not forget to tour among the preserved historical ships in the city's medieval port and enjoy the sea on its beaches. Another route you should definitely see during your boat vacation is Grevelingenmeer. Grevelingen Lake, which was cut off from the sea in 1971; Famous for its pristine calm waters. There are magnificent anchorages around the islets on the lake, which is a very popular spot for diving.
God Created the World, but the Dutch Created the Netherlands: Markermeer and Ijsselmeer
We come across an admirable example of this phrase, which summarizes the country's struggle against rising seas and overflowing rivers in the region. The bay, formerly known as Zuiderzee, was closed with dams and dams as a result of a project that started in the 1930s, and the Markermeer and Ijsselmeer lakes were formed in the area filled with fresh water. The region is home to some of the most important boat holiday routes in the Netherlands. Of course, the most popular of these is Amsterdam, the capital city located on the shore of the Markermeer. “Do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the most lively metropolises in the world through the canals” So the magic of this route is; fails to explain. You will experience an extraordinary and fascinating experience for a sea vacation while floating on the water among the narrow-faced historical buildings of the city lined up along the canals. Located 10.8 nautical miles from Amsterdam, Marken Island is a frequent destination for yacht enthusiasts, especially with its lovely lighthouse to the east. Monnickendam, the small fish town just across the island, is also one of the must-see places in the region. Edam, which used to be an important trade center and known for its shipyards, is today most famous for its cheeses. It is a great pleasure to watch the yellow cheese wheels being transported to the shops by boats in the city, which you will reach with a short canal ride over the Markermeer. Hoorn, one of the most important port cities in the Netherlands' golden net, is only 10 kilometers away from Edam and awaits those who want to visit a little museum.
When you sail towards Ijsselmeer and cross the dam, which is an indication that you have left Markermeer behind, you will arrive at Enkhuizen. In this magnificent port city, the most important place not to miss is the Zuiderzee Museum. A few from the city When you head north for a kilometer north, you will see that Medemblik, one of the biggest yachting centers of Ijsselmeer, is waiting for you with its historical walls surrounding its port. Medemblik is the region's gateway to Waddenzee in the north, but with its calm waters varying between 2 and 4 meters in depth, it offers a comfortable yacht holiday opportunity. Therefore, Urk and Lemmer on the east coast of Ijsselmeer are must-see cities if you linger a little longer in these waters.
Marinas
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A Little Adventure: Waddenzee and the Wadden Islands
Waddenzee, which was included in the world heritage list by UNESCO in 2009, offers impressive routes for boat charters. Crossing the shallow and narrow straits between the dunes that appear and disappear in a geography determined by the tides is not an experience you can encounter on every yacht charter route. Especially for this reason, even if you have captaining experience, we recommend you to have a Dutch captain with you who knows this region well. Even if the time is not suitable for your plan, having to wait for the waters to rise in order to arrive at the next port will make you feel in the lap of nature again after Ijsselmeer, whose conditions are quite specific! If you are ready for some adventure on your boat vacation, this is also a prize. of course there is. In this region, dreamy beaches await you in the untouched natural life that no one but the wolf sailors can reach. When you leave the calm waters of Ijsselmeer and set sail for the open areas, you will reach Texel Island and Wadden Islands with their safe harbors in Oudeschild and De Cocksdorp. Famous for its bicycle routes along the coastline and its beach exceeding 30 kilometers; on the island, both on the beach and indoors; You should not neglect to visit the lovely villages in the regions and see the lighthouse in the north. Be sure to try the Texel Skuumkoppe beer produced on the island. Adjacent to Texel, Vieland is almost never inside; motor vehicle A small, lovely island that is not found. You can spend a very pleasant day wandering around the dunes that cover it, and if you are a little lucky, you may encounter seals. If you want to spend more time bird and seal watching, Terschelling, just east of Vieland, is for you. Brandaris, the oldest lighthouse in the Netherlands, built in 1594, is also located on this island. The lively city center of West-Terschelling, full of beautiful pubs, offers a very suitable environment to relax and have some fun after all the tiring time spent at the sea. If you want to get away from the crowd even further, the smallest settlement in the Wadden Islands; Schiermonnikoog is waiting for you. Home to more than 300 bird species, the entire island is a national park.
Water Paradise Friesland
Friesland, located south of Waddenzee and starting from the east coast of Ijsselmeer, is a country of lakes, rivers and canals. Thus, it is possible to reach almost every city of the region via waterways. Consisting of 35 lakes and known for its unique natural beauties, the region has five national parks that host countless species. The region is also known as the water sports center of the Netherlands. Sneek is one of the cities that stand out in this area. Sneekweek, which is held every year in August, is one of the most humid water sports events in Europe. The city, which turns into a full festival area during Sneekweek, hosts big parties at night. Sitting in cute cafes around the canal and visiting Waterport, which consists of walls and towers built at the entrance of the harbor in the 17th century, are among the things to do in Sneek. To get to know the natural life of the region, you should go to the Lauwersmeer National Park. The region, which was cut off from the sea with the embankment built in 1969, is home to countless bird species with its wide plains, sepals and forests. In various iron places in the lake, this magical; you can watch nature in a great net.
Climate and Winds
The Netherlands is a region affected by the gulf stream; warm Atlantic waters and predominantly westerly winds. Although the months of July and August are rainy from time to time, a boat holiday can be made from May to October. Summer clothes are suitable in summer, but we recommend that you bring a raincoat and sweatshirt and trousers for cool evenings.
You can get detailed information about your cruise region and period from the operator's view, but the channels of the Netherlands, besides their natural beauty, provide a good shelter in windy days and continue your cruise. It is also great for you to do.
Marinas
Since the Netherlands is a country of sailors, it has many options, from simple piers and shelters to luxury marinas.