Sailing ship rental Kampen - 5 sailing ships

Where Ancient Trade Routes Meet Modern Adventure

Imagine stepping aboard a traditional sailing ship and gliding past a skyline that once rivalled Amsterdam in power and prestige. Kampen, a historic Hanseatic city in the Dutch province of Overijssel, offers exactly this experience. Situated at the mouth of the river IJssel, approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Amsterdam, this beautifully preserved medieval gem is waiting to become your next unforgettable sailing destination.

A City Born from the Water

Kampen is not just any Dutch town with waterfront charm. Between the 14th and 16th century, it was one of the biggest and most powerful towns in the Northern Netherlands. As a prominent member of the Hanseatic League alongside cities like Hamburg, Copenhagen, Lübeck and Bruges, Kampen grew wealthy through international maritime trade. The city received its official city rights as early as 1236, making it one of the oldest cities in the region.

Today, this rich seafaring heritage translates into an authentic sailing experience that few other destinations can match. The municipality covers approximately 162 square kilometers and has around 54,000 inhabitants. The city of Kampen itself is home to about 37,000 residents who proudly speak their local dialect called Kampers.

Why Kampen Should Top Your Sailing Ship Wishlist

Unmatched Historic Atmosphere

Kampen boasts one of the best-preserved old town centres of the Netherlands, with nearly 500 monuments testifying to its glorious past. Three ancient city gates still stand proudly: the Koornmarktspoort, Cellebroederspoort, and Broederspoort. You can climb the medieval Koornmarktspoort city gate on the river IJssel for spectacular views over the city.

Perfect Mooring Location

When you sail into Kampen, the first thing you will notice is the stunning cityscape. Traditional sailing ships can moor at the IJsselkade, right next to the IJssel bridge, placing you just a minute's walk from the historic centre. The cityscape with ships of the Brown Fleet docked provides a beautiful backdrop that feels like stepping back in time.

Gateway to Multiple Sailing Areas

Kampen sits at a strategic crossroads of Dutch waterways. From here, you can sail through the IJssel Delta to the Ketelmeer, and onward to the IJsselmeer, the largest lake in the Netherlands. The region also connects to the charming waters of the Kop van Overijssel, where the Zwarte Meer and various smaller lakes offer endless exploration possibilities.

Harbours Worth Dropping Anchor

Planning a multi-day sailing trip from Kampen opens up a world of mooring possibilities. Here are some harbours that deserve a spot in your itinerary:

• Elburg - From Elburg, sail through the Roggebotsluis to the Ketelmeer and then upstream to Kampen. This old Hanseatic city has many old towers and buildings, and you will find a berth in the Buitenhaven, close to the city centre.
• Vollenhove - This former Zuiderzee fishing town features a cosy marina. Characteristic for Vollenhove are the many Havezaten, noble houses with considerable acreage, including the Lindenhorst, Marxveld, Haare and Plattenburg.
• Zwartsluis - A charming watersports hub and former strategic trading port on the Zwarte Water. This picturesque water sports village organises fun events such as Zwartsluis under Sail and the National Tugboat Days.
• Blokzijl - Enter through the beautiful harbour entrance and discover this gem at the edge of the Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
• Urk - A picturesque fishing village where houses were built close together on elevated grounds to protect against water. Explore the narrow streets, alleys, and the charming Ginkies area.

Five Experiences You Cannot Miss

Forget the standard tourist checklist. Here are the activities that will make your sailing trip to Kampen truly memorable:

1. Tour the De Olifant Cigar Factory - Around 1880, almost half of Kampen's population worked in the tobacco industry. De Olifant is now the only surviving factory where high-quality cigars are still made with 19th-century machines. Tours run daily except Sundays at 14:00, giving you insight into a tradition that once defined this city.
2. Hunt for the Hidden Lions - Kampen and lions have been connected since the 14th century when Portuguese merchants gifted two lions to this important trading centre. Look for them in the city coat of arms, on the Lion Gate, and scattered throughout the city. Challenge your crew to spot them all during a walking tour.
3. Decode the Frescoes of the Middle Class - Throughout the city centre, you will find colourful murals that are actually old advertisements for now-defunct businesses. These paintings with Art Nouveau influences are being restored wherever they are discovered under old plaster, creating an unexpected open-air gallery.
4. Visit the Koggewerf - The Kamper Kogge is an authentic recreation of a 14th-century trade vessel and the only sailing cog in the Netherlands. At the Koggewerf, right next to the IJssel, you can take guided tours, explore a medieval fisherman's cottage, and see how these ships were built. The Kogge still makes voyages to other Hanseatic cities.
5. Find Kampen's Smallest House - At Burgwal 98 stands a tiny house measuring only 1.4 metres wide and 4.5 metres deep. Hard to imagine that five people once lived here. It makes for a quirky photo opportunity and a great story to share back home.

Sailing Routes to Consider

The Hanseatic Heritage Route

Sail from Kampen along the IJssel, through the Ketelmeer, and visit other Hanseatic cities like Hasselt and Zwolle. This route takes you past the Hanseatic cities where you can walk along many historical monuments that mark the history of trading and shipping.

The Venice of the North Loop

Navigate from Kampen through the Zwarte Water to reach Giethoorn, known as the Venice of the North. This enchanting village is almost entirely surrounded by water, with canals serving as the main roads. Quaint cottages with thatched roofs and charming bridges create a storybook atmosphere.

The IJsselmeer Adventure

For longer trips, sail via the Ketelmeer to the vast IJsselmeer. The sailing trip combines perfectly with visits to historic port towns such as Enkhuizen, Lemmer, Hindeloopen, Workum or Urk. No matter which direction the wind is blowing, you will reach some cosy port town in this wonderful sailing area.

Practical Tips for Your Sailing Adventure

Reaching Kampen by Water

Coming from the west, sailors need to pass the Ketelbrug and the imposing Eilandbrug. It is worth checking the IJssel's water drainage, as the river can flow heavily, which may make the journey longer. The city is situated at the mouth of the river IJssel where it flows into the Ketelmeer.

Best Time to Visit

Summer months offer the best sailing conditions and coincide with local events. The Kamper Ui(t)dagen is a large fair taking place for multiple Thursdays in the summer, ending with a firework show. SAIL Kampen and Christmas in old Kampen are other events worth planning around.

Exploring on Foot

The historic city centre is easily explored on foot. Walking through characteristic streets and alleys, you will pass beautiful Gothic architecture, medieval buildings, and hidden city gardens. The Houtzagersteeg is one of the most beautiful narrow alleys to discover. The Municipal Museum, located in the former city hall, houses collections themed around water, religion, law and order, and the Dutch Royal family.

Local Flavours

Kampen embraces its cultural vibrancy through various events and festivals. The city offers many comfortable and cosy coffee shops, lunchrooms, cafes and restaurants. Try a local beer from De Wereld, the only remaining brewery of the dozens that once operated here, served at the Stomme van Campen, perhaps the most traditional Dutch pub in town.

Your Floating Home Awaits

Book a sailing ship now and experience what made Kampen one of the most powerful cities in Northwestern Europe. Whether you prefer an active sailing adventure where you help hoist the sails, or a relaxing journey watching the Dutch landscape glide by, the waters around Kampen offer something for everyone.

The unique combination of rich maritime history, stunning medieval architecture, diverse sailing routes, and authentic Dutch culture makes Kampen an exceptional choice for your next sailing holiday. From weekend getaways to extended voyages exploring the interconnected waterways of the Netherlands, your adventure starts here.

The river IJssel and the unique town frontage set the scene for your historic journey. As you sail away from the quay, you will first have a magnificent view of what many consider the most beautiful riverfront in the Netherlands. That alone makes the trip worthwhile.