Erik the Red’s Drakkar, Columbus with his Santa Maria, Niña and Pinta, Shackleton and the Endurance… Imagine the great voyages of discovery without sailing ships. When you are sailing a historic ship, you feel the connection between man and the sea. Sometimes an effortless dance, sometimes an ultimate battle with water and wind.

All over the world, old ships are lovingly maintained. Buy a boat, work yourself to death, they say. Planing, sanding, varnishing, ropes, hull, mast, sails. Not only is it hard work, but it also costs a fortune.

The skippers of the historical fleet often finance their love for their barque, tjalk, skûtsje, or whatever type of ship, by paying guests. Even then, they are often struggling, but the love for sea and sailing is priceless, so they carry on.

Due to pandemics and restrictions, the worldwide historical fleet is in dire straits. Fewer people, if any, are allowed to sail. But paint, stain and tar protect only temporarily. Wood rots. Rope wears out. Rope rots. It is obvious: the historical fleet is in greater danger than in any naval battle.

We care about those ships. We care about the people on those ships who are fighting for survival. How could we not? We have had so many adventures with Boreas, Europa, Thalassa, Opal and all the other sailors.

That is why. A WideOyster Special with only sailing adventures. To read and see what it is like on board, the beauty of the ships, the diligence of ship and crew. Perhaps we will inspire you for your next voyage. And in doing so, we contribute to keeping all those floating loves afloat. Will you sail along?

Marco Barneveld
Editor-in-Chief