Fryslân Boppe: What an amazing vacation we had! We’ve rented boats from Wetterwille before, and this May vacation we had a wonderful time sailing on the Catfish 1. Our kids were bursting with excitement when we arrived in Terherne. They were curious to see what the boat would look like. They came back on deck even more excited after inspecting the boat inside and out.
The boat offers plenty of space: 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 separate restrooms, and 2 bathrooms. Combined with the dining area next to the kitchen, the living room, and a seating area at the rear of the deck, the sense of space is overwhelming. We were able to enjoy all of this over the next few days!
We decided to spend the night in Leeuwarden. There was a huge celebration going on there because Cambuur (with the emphasis on “Cam,” as we heard from insiders) had just won the championship. We moored the boat in Leeuwarden’s city park. Right in the middle of the city, yet in an oasis of tranquility. It couldn’t have been better. The next morning, we enjoyed a nice shower on board—perfect for avoiding the public restrooms. Although that had always been just fine in previous years, too.
Off to Dokkum, feeling refreshed. Dokkum is a quiet little town with charming little houses and tulips blooming everywhere. Together with the windmills that dot the town, it’s a truly Dutch scene. Upon arrival, we found there was still one nice spot on the shore, about 15.5 meters long. Using the bow and stern thrusters, you can essentially “park” the boat sideways. Very controlled.
Once we’d docked, the kids jumped overboard into the water. It was a bit spartan, but they had a blast!
On the third day, we decided to set course for Langweer. The boat is large but handles well. The view of the water from the helm is excellent, and the seating area behind it allows you to keep the captain company and enjoy yourself as well.
The trip to Langweer was wonderfully relaxing; nature was at its most beautiful in the spring.
Everything is a gorgeous shade of green, and everyone is happy that the weather was finally nice. Everything and everyone is beaming.
We spent our last night in Joure. To get there, we sailed across the Frisian lakes.
The Catfish 1 performs well there, too. With the measuring equipment on board, it’s easy to keep track of how fast you’re going (you want to be considerate of others, of course) and how deep the water is (so you don’t run aground). The weather wasn’t as good that day.
The kids had a great time at the kitchen table playing cards, while my husband and I steered the boat together.
The next morning, we unfortunately had to return the boat. We would have loved to extend our stay by a few days.
We think this is the perfect boat for a family vacation.
Whether it’s a weekend, a midweek getaway (like ours), or a full week, it offers so much comfort that it rivals even the most luxurious vacation homes. Except the Catfish can actually move across the water!
Sjoerd, Cathelijn, Bregje, and Lieke Schoenmakers
Dates: May 6–10, 2013
Route: Terherne, Leeuwarden, Dokkum, Langweer, Joure, Terherne.
Boat: Catfish 1
