Sailing in Harlingen
Harlingen, with its rugged, nautical charm, is situated on the UNESCO World Heritage site the Wadden Sea. The Wadden Sea is perfect for an adventurous sailing trip. You can spend hours sailing on the open sea, taking in the tranquillity and stunning natural beauty. Harlingen is the ideal starting point for a sailing trip on the Wadden Sea. Harlingen's tourist (sailing) season kicks off each year with a festive celebration during Fleet Day.
Sailing trips on the Wadden Sea
Sailing is a popular watersport in Harlingen. There are endless possibilities when it comes to sailing, from day trips and sailing holidays to sailing packages. Did you know you can even get married aboard a sailing ship? With such a wide range of options, there’s something for everyone. Experience in sailing is not necessary, as renting a sailing yacht includes a skipper and crew. This way, you can fully relax while on the water. So what are you waiting for? Hop on board with your classmates, family, colleagues or friends.

Everything at a glance
Sailing independently on the Wadden Sea
Do you have extensive sailing experience and want to sail independently on the Wadden Sea? You can, but there are a few things to keep in mind. To sail on the Wadden Sea, you need a Small Boat License 2. Also, you must be mindful of the sometimes rough waves, commercial traffic, and depth. The depths shown on the nautical chart can change due to wind and currents, so they may not always be accurate. Make sure to use your marine VHF radio. Want to be well-prepared before your trip? Calculate the tide as well, so you can choose the best route and departure time. If you don't own a sailing boat, you can rent one from De Zeezeilers van Marken. If you want to improve your sailing skills, De Zeezeilers also offers advanced courses or yacht skipper training.

About the Brown Fleet
Harlingen, the only seaport town in Friesland, is home to the largest Brown Fleet in the Netherlands. The fleet, comprising over 70 historic seafaring vessels, is a sight to behold in Harlingen’s harbours. But that is not all—did you know you can sail aboard one of these ships?
Read all about the Brown Fleet