Easter Sailing Weekend, Friday April 15 – Sunday April 17, 2022
Jaski Fonds
I am so grateful to my mom for contacting the Jaski Fund after she learned that the sailing foster camp couldn’t take place this year. I am even more grateful to the Jaski Fund itself! They were so sorry I couldn’t join after Mom and I had visited the Eendracht twice since August. We had attended an open evening where one of the quartermasters explained everything, and we had watched all the videos on the website several times—but then suddenly it was all cancelled. The Jaski Fund came up with the idea that Mom and I could join for a weekend instead. I have never received such a wonderful gift!
My Experience on Board
Beforehand, I didn’t know who else would be sailing, which made me quite nervous. I found it really special to meet so many different people, including the other guests. I also got to know the crew: the cooks, the captain, the quartermasters, and the helmsmen. It was fascinating to learn how everything works and who does what.
Jeroen, my quartermaster, was incredibly supportive in calming the nervous energy in my head and stomach. Paul and Martijn from the permanent crew explained everything clearly and patiently. I also had fun playing a little prank on Lennard by putting a chocolate egg in his water bottle—his loud reaction, “Yuck!”, proved the joke had worked.
The impressions were intense, sometimes even overwhelming, so it was especially reassuring to have a kind ship doctor on board, Lisa. A quick chat with her helped me feel okay again and enjoy breakfast with delicious, freshly baked bread.
The cabins and beds were very comfortable. Mom and I had a four-person cabin and both slept in the lower bunks, so we didn’t have to decide who got top or bottom. The beds were cozy, so whenever the nerves got a bit much, I could rest and recharge in my cabin.
It was amazing to stand at the helm, read the knots and degrees, and keep the course as the captain instructed. I learned a lot of sailing terminology. I also got to climb about three meters up the mast with Lianne, the boatswain. Hanging in the rigging, I could look around and truly enjoy the view.
Perhaps the most special part was knowing that it was completely okay if I sometimes did my watch and sometimes didn’t. In short: I experienced so much, slept plenty, and learned a lot. I will always remember this adventure and remain deeply grateful to the Jaski Fund.
What’s Next?
I am now saving up for a longer sailing trip, so that once I’ve overcome the initial nerves, I can take part in hoisting sails, tacking, and standing night watches—just like Mom did. She got to enjoy night-time toast and witness the sunrise from the deck.
Thank you for everything,
Bert