Netherlands showcases historic boat tours and festivals in Vlaardingen and Vreeswijk

In Vlaardingen, a series of heritage events ran from 13 June to 27 June, featuring historic vessels such as the 17th‑century trekschuit Goude Leeuwin, the 1912 herring‑logger VL 92 Balder, and the rescue boat Bruinvisch. Highlights included a traditional new‑herring ceremony in the Oude Haven, a free‑entry Stadskaravaan festival in the Babberspolder with music, theater and magic, and guided walks exploring the Ambacht neighbourhood’s agricultural past.

Meanwhile, Museumwerf Vreeswijk on the outskirts of Utrecht opened its summer programme with historic river trips. On 1 August, two half‑day excursions departed: one to the reconstructed Stadskraan in Utrecht, sailing the Vaartse Rijn and Merwedekanaal, and another to ’t Klaphek via the Kromme IJssel and Enge IJssel. From 1 August to 17 September, weekly Wednesday outings offered shorter tours of the Vreeswijk historic core and a two‑hour trip to Huis de Geer, inviting participants to experience centuries‑old waterways.