Volunteer water sports holidays

The wind in your hair, the sun on your face and the splashing water against the bow: at SailWise everyone can enjoy water sports. Unlimited! Anyone with a physical or mental disability can actively practice water sports from three locations in the Netherlands: water sports center It Sailhûs (Elahuizen, Friesland),water sports island Robinson Crusoe (Loosdrechtse Plassen, North Holland) and the two-masted clipper Lutgerdina (home port Enkhuizen, North Holland).

As a SailWise volunteer, you involve participants as much as possible in the sailing activities. Hoisting sails, steering, navigating, tying knots, performing maneuvers, scrubbing the deck, etc. You also help with the daily care (adl care) of the guests. Sometimes it is help with dressing and undressing, going to the toilet, showering and washing. Other times it is assistance while eating, assistance with boarding or pushing a wheelchair. In addition, you will cook, wash dishes and perform other household tasks together with the guests. Cleaning and keeping the accommodation and sanitary facilities clean are daily chores that are part of this. You fulfill a pioneering role and involve the guests in the chores during their holiday. And of course there is plenty of time to start conversations, cook together, play games and be actively involved with each other. Ultimately, you ensure that everyone has a super fun holiday!

Sailing experience is a plus

Professional crew is present on the two-masted clipper Lutgerdina and the catamaran Beatrix. As a volunteer you involve the participants in the sailing activities, but sailing experience is not necessary. On the water sports island Robinson Crusoe, we are looking for volunteers who can sail independently (minimum wind force 3) and canoe to guide our individual trips and group bookings (such as Mytyl schools and rehabilitation centers). You then go onto the water as skipper of a small boat with a group of participants, but you must also be able to hand over the helm. Have you not sailed for a number of years? Then you can participate in a sailing course to improve your sailing skills.

Nursing and/or caring background? Gladly!

SailWise participants can sign up for any accommodation, even if they need specific nursing care. SailWise will then arrange for the scheduling of a BIG-registered nurse or authorized and competent carer. So are you a nurse or carer and do you like to practice your profession in a relaxed holiday atmosphere? Then come to SailWise as a volunteer!

As a volunteer you make a difference for someone else, you have an unforgettable time and you enjoy water sports together in a unique location! The SailWise holidays take place from April to October. During that period you can join as a volunteer. Sometimes that can be a weekend, but most holidays last a week.

- Stimulate participants (disabled young people) to participate in the ins and outs on the ships and the accommodations; - provide support in the daily care of participants (from tying their shoes to helping with showering and toileting; - playing a pioneering role in the household, shopping, cooking, washing dishes and keeping the ship clean; responsible for the water sports program

Working hours

in consultation

To wish

Volunteering at SailWise is intensive, but a lot of fun and also gives a lot of energy. A lot is asked of you, but you also get a lot in return. Can you find yourself in the points below? Then you fit perfectly as a volunteer at SailWise!

• You are at least 18 years old
• You come voluntarily, but it is not without obligation
• You are sociable and helpful when needed
• You like to be outside and you like water (sports)
• You are physically and mentally fit
• You are respectful and treat others equally
• You encourage others to be independent and do not take anything off their hands without being asked
• You show initiative and are a team player
• You are open to feedback and ask for help if needed
• You contribute to a good atmosphere in the group
• You act safely for the other and yourself
• You are controllable and follow the instructions of the crew

The safety and treatment of our guests is our top priority. That is why we request a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) for every employee and volunteer. There are no costs attached to this.