Sailing on our sailing-vessel demands no special qualifications beside a general fair health. Our sailing vessel is operated by an experienced crew. Passengers are invited to help with the sailing under supervision of the crew.
Boarding the zodiacs, how does that work?
Our sailing-vessel is not equipped with a stairs-like gangway such as on our motor-vessels. On s/v Rembrandt van Rijn passengers board the zodiacs via a small ladder on the side of ship. This is not very demanding but passengers should be aware that in order to join the landings they have to be able to do this.
General information for passengers
How often do we sail?
Sailing depends on the wind, the (ice-)conditions and also the itinerary. When these conditions are right our sailing-ship will normally attempt to sail. In case the wind is not favourable for the planned itinerary the ships engines will be used. On each voyage several times sailing will be attempted.
Are the voyages on the sailing-vessel s/v Rembrandt van Rijn, besides the sailing exactly the same as the voyages with a motor-vessel?
Our sailing-vessel is much smaller compared to our motor-vessels. The maximum number of passengers on s/v Rembrandt van Rijn is 33. The atmosphere on board is very intimate and there is more direct contact with the sailing crew.
The number of guides on board of the sailing-vessel is also lower, we have two guides on the s/v Rembrandt van Rijn.
Besides the size of the sailing-vessel this ship is also less fast compared to the motor-vessels. The distances covered by our sailing-vessels are therefore less long. s/v Rembrandt van Rijn often make more frequent stops and have a less strict program, due to the nature of sailing.
Will I get seasick?
Many people ask us if they will get sea-sick. This depends very much on the individual. Not everybody is prone to sea-sickness, our experience is that only a small percentage of the passengers get sick on any trip and most of these people are fine after a day or so at sea. If you feel that you are particularly susceptible to sea-sickness then it is a good idea to talk to your local doctor. Bring enough motion sickness tablets, or plasters with you and be sure you have eaten enough and feel rested.
Please note: on our s/v Rembrandt van Rijn there is no doctor on board.
Do I need sailing gear?
You do not need specific sailing gear. Normal waterproof cold weather clothing will do, together with sturdy waterproof hiking boots or rubber boots.