Sailing for a Cleaner Ocean

Zeeland Expedition

Sailing for a Cleaner Ocean

Reflections from Our Expedition in Zeeland

Last month, we set sail across the waters of the Oosterschelde aboard the Vrijbuiter. With 15 crew members — from a curious two-year-old to a wise 75-year-old — we embarked on a shared journey that combined adventure, learning, and purpose. From Goes to Tholen and back; a weekend filled with wind, waves, and science!

A weekend of wind, salt, and science

Life on board the Vrijbuiter is not just about sailing. It’s about being present — hoisting the sails together, preparing shared meals, and observing the ocean up close. And it also has a serious aspect: on board we turned our curiosity into action.

Throughout the expedition, we collected three water samples from different locations in the Oosterschelde. Back on deck, we analyzed them — and once again, every single sample contained plastic. It’s a sobering reminder that even in the most beautiful corners of our planet, plastic pollution is never far away. Each piece of data helps us better understand the impact of plastic in our waterways and inspires change in how we treat our shared blue planet.

A crew connected by purpose

What made this journey truly special was the people. Fifteen individuals from different backgrounds came together with a shared curiosity and a deep respect for nature. Conversations drifted between sustainability, community, and the joy of simple living at sea.

From raising the sails to spotting seals, from quiet sunrise coffees to late-night reflections

under a sky full of stars — it was a weekend that reminded us why we do this work.

Together, we learned that taking care of the ocean starts with connection — with the sea, with each other, and with ourselves.

Join us on the next voyage

Are you also interested in sailing while contributing to real ocean research? In 2026, we’ll be back in Zeeland for new sailing expeditions with impact.
Mark your calendars:

📅 May 9–10 (weekend)
📅 July 20–24 (midweek)
📅 September 5–6 (weekend)

Book via: https://vrijbuiterzeilen.nl/agenda/

Or email us at [email protected]

Join a crew of like-minded explorers and help us collect valuable data on plastic pollution — while experiencing the beauty of the Dutch waters.

Adventure with purpose begins here. Stay tuned on our channels for updates and share your interest.

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