The SailTime Group is excited to announce the launch of SailTime Netherlands, marking an exciting expansion into the coastal town of Stavoren. New franchise owner Bart Zwager, a lifelong sailor and seasoned businessman with a background in IT and marketing, is a true adventurer at heart. Bart was searching for his next challenge when he discovered SailTime.
After stepping away from his career in IT, Bart began to consider how he wanted to spend the next phase of his life. He wanted to identify a market that was missing something significant and find a solution for that missing piece. Combining his love for sailing with his business acumen, the concept of fractional sailing emerged as a natural fit. For the Netherlands, the concept of yacht sharing is new and not well understood. For Bart this “yacht sharing vacuum” is a challenge he welcomes!
“One of the most exciting aspects of running SailTime in the Netherlands,” said Bart, “is introducing the concept of boat sharing to a community largely unfamiliar with it. For many Dutch people, the idea of sharing a boat rather than owning one or chartering it is new, which presents a fantastic marketing challenge.” Bart is determined to make SailTime a success while showing people the incredible value of this flexible and affordable boating option.
Bart’s passion for sailing goes back to his childhood. He started sailing at just three years old when his father took him out on a small open boat. Before long, his father set Bart and his brother out on the water on their own to learn through hands-on experience, and that spark has stayed with him ever since. Sailing is more than just a hobby for Bart—it’s a lifelong passion, and he is thrilled to now share it with others.
Talk to Bart about Sailing in the Netherlands and his eyes sparkle with true appreciation of the beautiful waters and destinations in this relatively quiet part of the world. “The waters of the Netherlands are an ideal place to sail,” notes Bart. “The area offers a variety of conditions and destinations that will appeal to both new and experienced sailors.”
SailTime Netherlands will operate on the IJsselmeer and Markermeer, unique lakes that were once part of the sea. For seasoned sailors, within just a few hours of sailing, they can visit historic towns such as Enkhuizen, Medemblik, Hindeloopen, Workum, and Lemmer. For those who prefer longer adventures, a six-hour sail will bring you into the heart of Amsterdam.
For those seeking more serene waters, Friesland’s inland lakes and canals offer charming villages, marinas, and plenty of places to dock, perfect for a relaxing day on the water. The Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a must-see, with its untouched beauty and picturesque islands to explore by boat. And – for the more daring and adventure seeking sailors, the North Sea offers an open-water challenge that promises excitement and pure adrenalin rush adventure!
SailTime Netherlands’ fleet begins with a brand new Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 350, a model known for its combination of comfort, performance, and ease of handling. This boat is perfect for the variety of waters available in the Netherlands. It has a spacious interior, shallow draft, and excellent sailing capabilities. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sailor, it promises a great experience on the water.
Bart tells us the marina in Stavoren offers an ideal location for a SailTime base, providing easy access to the best sailing destinations in the region. Its proximity to historic towns and scenic waters makes it a perfect base for unforgettable adventures on the water.
Looking ahead, Bart has a clear vision for the future of SailTime Netherlands. His goal is to uphold the high quality standards he experienced with SailTime in the USA, creating a new benchmark for boating in the Netherlands. In addition, he is focused on building a robust SailTime community, where members can connect, share experiences, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of this unique boating experience. Bart hopes to expand the fleet to at least two boats in the coming year, further growing the SailTime presence in the region.
As SailTime Netherlands continues to grow and evolve, Bart is excited about the journey ahead. He looks forward to welcoming more sailors into the SailTime family and introducing them to the joy of boating without the hassles and responsibilities of ownership.
For more information about SailTime Netherlands (Nederlands) visit:https://sailtime.eu/nl/
