The route

The Markermeer is the Netherlands' best-known sailing lake, and an excellent choice for a weekend on the water with family and friends. Charming old VOC towns alternate with quieter nature areas like the Marker Wadden, the newest piece of the Netherlands: a cluster of man-made nature islands bringing new life to the Markermeer. Explore this new habitat for plants, insects, fish and birds by your own sailing yacht, a natural paradise with a beach and lovely walking trails.

Within sight of Amsterdam, you'll find historic fishing villages like Durgerdam. The calm here, so close to the city, is remarkable, and gives an instant holiday feeling. Durgerdam has a pleasant community harbour to moor in. The Sixhaven and Marina Amsterdam are good bases for anyone wanting to visit the city; a short ferry across the IJ puts you right in the heart of the centre.

Practical info

Duration: A (long) weekend
Sailing level: Day skipper level
Nice harbours along the way: Muiden, Volendam, Durgerdam, Hoorn & Enkhuizen