Publication date : 27/03/23 | Update date : 05/10/23
The Markermeer, or the promise of unforgettable cruises
If you're interested in sailing on Lake Marken, you'll need to know that it's particularly well-suited to water sports: whether you're sailing, kayaking or paddling, there aren't many waters in the Netherlands that offer so many possibilities! While conditions can be a little rough in bad weather, in calm conditions even the smallest boats can navigate without any particular challenge. Also, unlike other destinations, the water is not saturated with boats, so you can take full advantage of the environment. Whether close to nature's bounty or on the outskirts of beautiful, traditional towns, sailors will enjoy memorable moments on the Markermeer: a unique sailing area.
Sailing on Lake Markermeer: endless possibilities
On Lake Markermeer, there's only one rule: sail freely. Indeed, there are no specific shipping routes on Lake Marken: the calm waters allow you to choose your direction and follow the sailing route of your choice. You can set course for the historic towns of Marken, Hoorn, Enkhuizen or Volendam, or go in search of a vantage point of the dykes and old Dutch mills.
Lake Marken is also the ideal place to take some time for yourself: here, you can sail quietly from one anchorage to another, without necessarily having to make long crossings. On deck, on the shore or on the beach, why not try your hand at relaxation? From the Markermeer, you can also easily reach the IJmeer or the IJsselmeer to extend your sailing territory.
Discover the Marker Wadden islands by boat from Lelystad
If you're a nature lover, you'll love the sailing environment offered by Lake Marken: it's home to numerous bird species, many of which are protected! Cormorants and black-headed gulls, for instance, can often be seen from the boat deck.
To observe the local flora and fauna, one of our recommendations is to explore the Marker Wadden Islands, in the immediate vicinity of our Lelystad marinas. This small group of artificial islands is in fact a nature reserve made up of islets, mudflats and marshes, specially created to shelter and preserve species. Accessible in just over an hour by boat, the Marker Wadden promise a change of scenery.
Safe sailing on Lake Marken
To sail safely and properly on Lake Marken, there are a few rules to observe. For instance, you'll need a boating license if the vessel can reach 20 km/h, or if the hull's length exceeds 15 meters. There are no speed limit on Lake Marken, so you can sail at any speed you like. We do, however, recommend you to be careful: the shallowness of the lake means that short wave swells are not uncommon. Check the weather forecast in advance, and don't go out if conditions don't allow it!
Explore the Markermeer from the marinas of Port Adhoc in Lelystad
Port Adhoc marinas in Lelystad are the ideal starting point for your adventures on Lake Marken, and beyond! Our Lelystad Haven marina, for instance, offers 550 berths, boat repair facilities and winter storage solutions.
The port of Deko Marina Lelystad can accommodate up to 400 boats and offers all the services required by boaters.
If you want to sail the Markermeer on a regular basis, you can go for a permanent berth in our harbours and leave your boat there on a yearly-basis. Contact us quickly for a no-obligation quote!