Horse-drawn rescue boat

The Horse-Drawn Rescue Boat of Ameland is more than just a spectacle; it's a living monument that dates back to a time when the island had no modern motorboats. Horses were literally the lifeline. Ameland even played a crucial role in the establishment of the Royal Netherlands Rescue Society (KNRM) in 1824. In fact, without the efforts of the islanders and their sturdy steeds, the story of the KNRM might have unfolded quite differently.

Until 1937, the crew would row out to rescue vessels in distress. After that, the motor lifeboat 'Abraham Fock' was introduced, named after one of the founders of the Rescue Society.

In the past, it was the steam whistle of the dairy factory in Hollum that signalled the start of action. As soon as the whistle blew, the crew and the drivers would gather their horses from the fields and trot to the KNRM station to harness them to the lifeboat. The sound of the clattering caterpillar tracks on the cobbled streets announced the arrival of the boat, and everyone in the village knew something was about to happen.

Even today, this familiar, exciting sound can be heard during each demonstration, as the lifeboat is once again pulled through the village.

The demonstration today begins at the boathouse of the Maritime Centre in Hollum. Here, the horses are harnessed, and the lifeboat carriage is coupled. At the signal from the beach master, the impressive assembly, weighing around 12,000 kilos, sets off towards the beach. You can follow this magnificent spectacle on foot or by bike as the horses and boat make their way.

The launch itself takes place on the beach, at the end of the Tjettepad, about a kilometre from the Maritime Centre. Don't miss this unique experience and witness the power of the Horse-Drawn Lifeboat up close!

The term "bootwateren" originates from the successful outcome of a rescue operation. In the past, this was celebrated in the local café, where the crew received two drinks and a cigar from the rescue society as a reward for their brave efforts. Today, this tradition continues in the form of Musical Bootwateren – an annual event filled with music and merriment.

Read more about Musical Bootwateren >>

For the residents of Hollum, this date is forever etched in memory: 14 August 1979. A stormy wind from the southwest and a strong ebb tide created severe conditions at sea. The Horse-Drawn Lifeboat was called to assist the German yacht Windspiel 4, which was in distress. As the crew prepared for the rescue, tragedy struck. Before they could fully comprehend what was happening, the raging waters pulled the trailer and the horses into the depths.

Read more about the disaster of 1979 >>

From the beach, the demonstration of the Horse-Drawn Lifeboat is already an impressive spectacle, but did you know you can also experience it from the sea? Board the m.s. Zeehond and enjoy a unique view of this remarkable tradition. From the water, you can see the strength of the horses and the lifeboat in action even better. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

So, if you want to witness the demonstration up close, book a spot on the m.s. Zeehond and join the adventure!