Markermeer
The sailing trips to the Markermeer start just like the sailing trips to the Gouwzee in the centre of Amsterdam with a sightseeing tour over the IJ. On the Markermeer we take an easterly course in the direction of Flevoland. The fortress island Pampus and Muiden can be reached in one hour. A daytrip to the Markermeer gives you plenty of time for one or maybe even two stops.
Do you prefer to drop anchor and enjoy the peace and quiet of a sheltered spot or go swimming around the yacht with your children? Sail to Pampus without a stop anywhere in case you have little time available? Pick up and drop off at a convenient location? Departure time by appointment? Everything is possible!
Muiden
Muiden is located at the mouth of the Vecht. Close to the ?Muider castle? that was commissioned by count Floris V, probably around 1280. Nowadays it is used as a cultural centre and museum. The castle has a moat and a drawbridge. The beautiful historic gardens are maintained by volunteers. The ?Mice fortress? in Muiden was, like the fortress island Pampus, part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam.
It owes it?s name from the mouse-gray uniforms of the Dutch troops in 1939. The Zuiderzee locks to the Vecht were built in 1673. On the terrace of cafe ?Ome Ko? you sit directly beside them, here you can watch the activities while you enjoy a cup of coffee with apple pie. Each year 46,000 pleasure crafts pass through these locks under the watchful eye of a friendly lock keeper.
Pampus
After the French ? German war of 1870, the island and the fortress Pampus were built on the shallowness of Pampus. In 1895 the fortress Pampus was ready for the defence of Amsterdam against attacks across the then open Zuiderzee. It was one of the 42 fortifications from the Defence Line of Amsterdam and was never used for any act of war.
Nowadays the island is used for events and it?s open to paying visitors. After arrival you will be welcomed by a fortress guard. With the assistance of multimedia, guided tours, searches and games, the history of the fortress island and the Defence Line of Amsterdam becomes a fun experience for young and old.
