Set sail aboard the Albatros
Discover Noordwijk from the sea
Sailing along the coast of Noordwijk aboard the Albatros
It had been on our wish list for years, but somehow we had never got around to it. Until we were unexpectedly invited to board the Albatros with our team – also known locally as the “flag boat”. A few tasty snacks, great company and, of course, the North Sea. That was all we needed on this sunny Thursday evening.
We boarded the Albatros and set off along the coast of Noordwijk. We did get our ankles and knees a little wet while climbing aboard, but honestly, as soon as we left the beach behind, it felt as though we had escaped everyday life completely. The sun on our faces, the wind in our hair and plenty of laughter along the way.
Noordwijk from the water
We know the Noordwijk coastline like the back of our hands. We walk along the beach, cycle through the dunes and regularly look out over the sea from the boulevard. But when you look back at Noordwijk from the water, everything suddenly feels different.
The long coastline, wide beaches, dunes and distinctive buildings along the boulevard create a beautiful backdrop. The farther we sailed from the shore, the quieter it became. All we could hear was the engine, the water gently lapping against the boat and the sound of our conversations and laughter.
In our opinion, this is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the Netherlands.
A familiar sight on the Noordwijk coast
For many people from Noordwijk, the Albatros brings back fond memories. The wooden boat with its cheerful flags has been part of the summer scene in Noordwijk aan Zee for decades.
The tradition of boat trips from Noordwijk beach dates back to around 1920. The Albatros became especially well known thanks to captain Jo van der Lippe, who began taking passengers along the coasts of Noordwijk and Katwijk in 1964. He continued doing so for more than 55 years. Generations of children, parents, residents and holidaymakers stepped aboard his boat.
A little history: Jo originally bought the Albatros with the intention of organising trips to the famous REM Island. However, he was not granted permission to do so. Instead, he decided to offer shorter trips along the coast. This is how the Albatros became such a well-known and much-loved part of Noordwijk.
Stichting Behoud Albatros
When Jo van der Lippe retired in 2022, it seemed that a special chapter in Noordwijk’s history was coming to an end. Fortunately, that was not the case. Arjan van der Niet and Paul Lenten took over the boat and decided to dedicate themselves to preserving it.
With the help of volunteers, the Albatros was extensively restored. Part of the hull below the waterline was replaced, the engine was overhauled and the boat received a fresh coat of paint. The Stichting Behoud Albatros foundation was also established to preserve this special piece of Noordwijk heritage.
In the summer of 2024, the Albatros returned to the water. Wonderful news, as some traditions simply deserve to be passed on to future generations.
Bring some snacks and enjoy the ride
We brought our own snacks and drinks for the trip. Once everyone had found a place on board, the evening could begin.
The atmosphere was relaxed from the start. We chatted, tried to hear one another over the wind and enjoyed the view. There was no elaborate programme and no complicated planning. We simply sailed, spent time together and laughed. That simplicity was exactly what made the experience so enjoyable.
It truly feels as though you are getting away from it all, even though you are sailing just off the coast of Noordwijk. It is an original idea for a team outing, a special afternoon with friends or a relaxing family activity.
And then we even spotted seals!
As if the evening could not get any better, we also had some special visitors. Several times, we spotted curious heads appearing above the water: seals!
They were only visible for a few moments at a time, but long enough to delight everyone on board.
Of course, seeing seals during the trip is never guaranteed. They are wild animals and decide for themselves where and when they appear. That is precisely what makes an encounter like this so special.
The boat only sails when the sea allows it
A beautiful sunny day does not automatically mean that the Albatros can sail. The captain always carefully assesses the wind, current and waves. Safety comes first.
The weather on the beach may be lovely, while the wind direction or current still makes it impossible to sail. The Albatros mainly operates when the sea is calm and the wind conditions are favourable.
Always check the latest conditions with Stichting Behoud Albatros in advance. The foundation works with supporting members to maintain and preserve the boat. Contact the foundation directly to ask about the possibilities, especially when you would like to sail with a group.
An evening to remember - As we headed back towards the beach after the trip, the snacks were gone, our phones were full of photos and everyone agreed: it had been a wonderful experience. The time spent together made it a very special evening.
Would you like to experience Noordwijk from a completely different perspective?
Step aboard the Albatros. Watch the coastline slowly pass by, feel the wind in your hair and enjoy an experience that has been part of Noordwijk for generations.
What is the Albatros in Noordwijk?
The Albatros is a historic wooden passenger boat that has been sailing along the coasts of Noordwijk and Katwijk since the 1960s. Today, the boat is managed by Stichting Behoud Albatros.
When does the Albatros sail?
The Albatros sails when the weather, wind, current and waves allow for a safe trip. Departure times may therefore vary, and planned trips may occasionally be cancelled.
Can you see seals during the boat trip?
Seals are regularly spotted along the Dutch coast. We were lucky enough to see several during our trip. However, a seal sighting can never be guaranteed.
Is the Albatros suitable for a team outing?
For our team, the boat trip was a relaxed and original outing. Discuss the possibilities for a private group trip directly with Stichting Behoud Albatros in advance.
How can I sail aboard the Albatros?
Check the current possibilities with Stichting Behoud Albatros and contact the foundation directly. Sailing aboard the boat is linked to becoming a supporting member. In this way, you also contribute to the preservation and maintenance of the Albatros.