The route

This sailing route is best known for the sailing event of the same name, sailed every year by countless touring and racing sailors. The route is literally a loop around North Holland, taking you across the Markermeer, the IJsselmeer, the Wadden Sea and even the North Sea. You can start from various harbours on the Markermeer or IJsselmeer.

Sailing from Muiden, you can spend the night along the way in charming harbours like Enkhuizen or Medemblik, before setting course for the Afsluitdijk. Depending on wind, tide and timing, you'll pass through the lock at Kornwerderzand on the north side of the Afsluitdijk, or Den Oever on the south side.

Once through the lock, try to catch the current towards Texel or Den Helder. The current, the sandbanks, the salt water, and perhaps a seal alongside the boat, all make for a memorable stretch of sailing. From the marina on Texel, the island is easy to explore. After Texel, set course along the North Holland coast towards IJmuiden, a beautiful stretch of open-sea sailing. Sailing into IJmuiden between the larger seagoing ships is an experience in itself. From there, sail through the North Sea Canal to Amsterdam, past Centraal Station along the IJ, before heading back to the Markermeer.

Practical info

Duration: 3–4 days
Sailing level: Advanced
Nice harbours along the way: Enkhuizen, Texel, Hindeloopen, Medemblik