Go sailing in Groningen with one of our boats. With this tour around Groningen, you’ll sail approximately 75km over 3 to 6 days along the remnants of the Lauwerszee. Along mounds where the first settlers sought protection from the sea, through polders where the sea has been transformed into fertile farmland. Locks and pumping stations that tamed the wild seawater. Past picturesque villages and through ‘Stad’ where the influence of the tides was noticeable until the last century. Which of our classic boats will you choose for sailing through Groningen?
Day 1 – Zoutkamp – 17km – 2.5 hours
The route starts from Jachthaven Lunegat. From here, you sail towards the Lauwersmeer, the former Lauwerszee. On the Lauwersmeer, keep right towards Zoutkamp.
Zoutkamp is a village with a close-knit community and rich history. In the past, Zoutkamp was a strategically important defense bastion; nowadays, it is primarily known for the Dutch (North Sea, grey) shrimp.
At Zoutkamp, the rivers Reitdiep, Lauwers, and Hunsingokanaal converge, a confluence of waters unique in Europe. Zoutkamp also boasts the largest concentration of monumental artworks in the world, with various locks and bridges
Day 2 – Garnwerd – 20km
From Zoutkamp, follow the Reitdiep. You pass by the village of Electra where the De Waterwolf pumping station is located. Then you continue winding along the Reitdiep and pass several locks (most are open). You end the day in Garnwerd. Here you will find the restaurant Garnwerd aan Zee.
Which boat will you choose to sail through Groningen?
Day 3 – Groningen – 12km – 2.5 hours
From Garnwerd, continue along the Reitdiep, cross the Van Starkenborgh Canal, and head towards the city (Stad). You’ll navigate through Groningen in convoy. Check the website of the municipality of Groningen for more information.
When in Groningen, here are some interesting sights:
Martinitoren (Martini Tower)
In the past 500 years, the Martini Tower has burned down, been struck by lightning, and nearly collapsed. Wars were won and lost on its doorstep. The tower has endured, standing tall at 97 meters, making it still the tallest building in the city. Climb up for a piece of tangible history and a fantastic view.
Forum Groningen
Located in the heart of Groningen’s city center, the Forum is a meeting place for everyone curious about the world today and the possibilities of tomorrow. The Forum aims to surprise and inspire with attractions such as Storyworld, a large exhibition space with changing exhibits, 5 cinemas, the Smartlab, restaurants, the city library, and Groningen’s highest rooftop terrace with phenomenal views and a rooftop cinema.
Hofjes (Courtyards)
In the past, Groningen’s hofjes provided free housing for the poor, widows, and the sick. Today, various private individuals live in these oases of tranquility in the city center. At a handful of these courtyards, you can step inside for a moment of silence. Some of the trees in the flower-filled gardens are so old that they witnessed the residents from centuries ago.
Day 4 – Winsum – 21km – 4 hours
From Groningen, you sail a short distance on the Van Starkenborgh Canal. You turn off onto the Boterdiep and pass through the villages of Zuidwolde, Bedum, and Onderdendam. From Onderdendam, you navigate onto the Winsumerdiep. You end the day in the village declared the most beautiful in the Netherlands by the ANWB.
Day 5 – Lauwersmeer – 25km – 3.5 hours
From Winsum, you follow the Winsumerdiep and then the Mensingeweersterloopdiep. You sail through Mensingeweer and via the Kromme Raken, passing Wehe den Hoorn. Here you follow the Hoornse Vaart and then the Husingokanaal. Through Zoutkamp, you eventually return to the Lauwersmeer. Here, you can spend the night on one of the uninhabited islands.
Tips for sailing through Groningen
Bring some extra small change for bridges, water, and showers. Typically, you’ll need 50-cent coins for the machines.
Most marinas have toilets and showers. If you plan to use these facilities, it’s advisable to stay overnight in a marina.
In this route, we haven’t accounted for mooring fees in the marinas.
