Sailing on the Markermeer
Leave the rush behind for a day. Feel the freedom of the wind, look out across the water and enjoy unhurried time together. Hoist the sails and discover sailing on the Markermeer!
Step away from the rush. Feel the wind on your face. Make time for each other. Experience sailing on the Markermeer.
Sometimes you do not need a packed schedule or a spectacular activity. You simply want to get away for a while. Away from your diary, your phone and the pressure of everyday life.
When you sail on the Markermeer, that sense of space comes almost naturally.
Perhaps this sounds familiar:
- You want a day with no obligations.
- You are looking for something original, but not a crowded attraction.
- You long for calm, open space and fresh air.
- You want meaningful time with your partner, family or friends.
- You would like to experience the Netherlands from the water.
- You are looking for an experience that stays with you.
Every sailing trip is different. The wind, the weather and your wishes shape the rhythm of the day. As soon as the harbour disappears behind you, the pace changes. The wind takes over, the horizon opens up and everyday life slowly fades from view.
Take part in the sailing
Take the helm or help with the sails and discover how the boat responds to wind and water.
Relax on deck
Find a comfortable place in the cockpit or on the trampoline and watch the water glide by.
Enjoy the day together
Enjoy lunch together and, in good weather, take a swim or sail towards Marken.
A day when time slows down
Sailing on the Markermeer with At the Helm is not about a packed programme. It is about the experience.
- Enjoy the quiet together.
- Make space for a good conversation.
- Take an active part or simply relax.
- For a while, there is simply nothing you have to do.
Often it is the small moments that stay with you longest: the quiet when the engine is switched off, the wind filling the sails and the feeling that you have been away for much longer than a single day.
You step ashore again, but take the feeling of space, calm and freedom home with you.
Discover the Markermeer under sail
- Discover historic Monnickendam, often called the pearl of the Gouwzee.
- Help hoist the sails or take the helm yourself for a while.
- Enjoy the famous Dutch skies while sailing on the Markermeer.
- Relax on board with local Dutch snacks, cheese and drinks.
- Walk through the narrow streets of historic Marken with its characteristic wooden houses.
- Feel the calm of the water and the wind as the rush of everyday life fades further away.
- Go home with new memories, renewed energy and perhaps even your first sailing experience.
A private sailing trip on the Markermeer for your group
The catamaran is entirely yours and there will be no unfamiliar guests on board. The best days cannot be fully planned, so we leave room for spontaneous moments and shape the trip around your wishes, the wind and the water. Celebrate a birthday, a family day or a day with friends, or simply use the occasion to share something special together.
Catamaran exclusively for your group
from €600
+ €50 per person
- Six hours of sailing
- Departure from Monnickendam
- 20 minutes from Amsterdam by car
- Free parking
- 20 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station by bus 314 or 316
- Maximum 12 guests
- Sailing on the Markermeer
- Local Dutch snacks
- No sailing experience required
- Space to take part and to relax
- The day is tailored to your group
Choose your day
private markermeer sailing experience
€ 550,00
We are happy to help you plan
Whether you have a question, want to celebrate something special or are looking for a tailor-made sailing trip, we are happy to think along with you. Would you first like to get acquainted and discover whether sailing on the Markermeer with At the Helm suits you? Feel free to contact us. We will be glad to help.
A day you will not soon forget
This is how guests experienced their sailing trip on the Markermeer.
“Whether we wanted to jump in fully or just relax and watch, Deep made sure each person in our group felt like we belonged.”
“It was the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.”
Dani
Houston, Texas
“A perfect combination of relaxing, learning to sail, discovering history and making new friends.”
“There was no pressure at all. An unforgettable experience.”
Carla & Marc
Amsterdam
“No fake, quick tourist trap, but the real deal. A truly unique Dutch experience.”
“The wind, the clouds, the sun and the birds. It was simply amazing.”
Rocco
Amsterdam
About At the Helm
At At the Helm, we take people on adventures in nature. A day on the water creates space to slow down, spend time together and step away from the rush of everyday life.
That is why skipper Deep, who sailed around the world, now shares his love of wind, water and adventure during small-scale sailing trips on the Markermeer. With personal attention, a relaxed atmosphere and respect for nature, he creates a day that will stay with you for a long time.
Frequently asked questions about sailing on the Markermeer
Do you still have a question about our private sailing trip from Monnickendam? Below you will find answers to the questions we receive most often.
Do I need sailing experience?
No sailing experience is required. Everyone is welcome, even if you have never sailed before. You can help hoist the sails, take the helm for a while or discover how the catamaran responds to wind and water. Prefer to relax and enjoy the view? That is absolutely fine too.
Can I join if I prefer not to take an active part?
Certainly. During your sailing trip on the Markermeer you are welcome to help, but nothing is required. You can also find a comfortable place in the covered cockpit, on deck or on the trampoline and simply enjoy the calm, the open space and the water gliding by.
Are you likely to get seasick on a catamaran?
The chance of seasickness during a sailing trip on the Markermeer is generally low. The Markermeer is sheltered water, and with its two hulls a catamaran is much more stable than a traditional sailing boat. Most guests therefore experience little or no seasickness.
Is it safe to join without sailing experience?
Yes. Skipper Deep sailed around the world and has extensive experience with different boats and sailing areas. He guides you calmly and clearly throughout the trip. Guests who want to help receive clear instructions, while those who prefer to relax can safely enjoy the day.
What should I bring for the sailing trip?
The weather on the Markermeer can be changeable. Bring a warm jumper or cardigan and a waterproof jacket. Special sailing clothing is not necessary. On sunny days, sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap are useful. Shoes with soft, preferably white soles and good grip are most suitable on board.
What happens if the weather is less favourable?
Dutch summer weather on the water is often better than people expect. Sunshine, clouds and wind can alternate and create the famous Dutch skies. The cockpit and helm station are covered, so you remain sheltered and usually stay fairly dry during a shower.
Does the sailing trip always go ahead?
A little wind or a brief shower is part of sailing and does not have to be a problem. Only when conditions are unsuitable for safely going out onto the Markermeer will we discuss an alternative date with you. Safety always comes first.
Can you also sail in spring and autumn?
Yes. Early spring and autumn are also beautiful seasons for sailing on the Markermeer. The water is often quieter, and the skies and light can be especially beautiful. Thanks to the covered helm station, sheltered cockpit and heating on board, it remains comfortable even on cooler days.
How many guests can join?
The private sailing trip is suitable for groups of up to twelve guests. The catamaran is exclusively for your group, so no unfamiliar guests will join you. This leaves plenty of space and personal attention for everyone.
Can I celebrate a birthday, anniversary or family day?
Certainly. A private sailing trip from Monnickendam is ideal for a birthday, anniversary, family day or a day with friends. Because the catamaran is exclusively for your group, we can tailor the pace and character of the day as much as possible to your wishes.
Is your question not listed here? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help. Ready to book? Check the available dates.