Horse-drawn rescue boat
Looking for an adventure you won't find anywhere else in the world? Meet the Horse-drawn Rescue Boat of Ameland!
This iconic lifeboat is, yep, pulled into the water by horses. Since 1824, this heroic combination of man and animal has braved the rugged Wadden Sea to save lives.
A living monument
It's a piece of history that remains very much alive – during demonstrations, you can witness how this tradition is upheld. Don't miss out, as you can only experience something like this in one place in the world: here, on Ameland!
How it all began
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.
When the steam whistle sounds
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.
From the boathouse
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!
A dive into the past (without getting wet!)
Do you want to see this piece of Ameland history in action? Then come to one of the spectacular demonstrations. The strength and teamwork of man and beast are still breathtaking. As the horses pull the heavy boat across the beach and into the surf, you’ll feel the thrill of a historic rescue operation. Getting goosebumps? That’s all part of the experience!
Demonstration dates
- Saturday, 26 October 2024, 17:00
- Monday, 23 December 2024, 14:00
- Saturday, 22 February 2025, 15:00
- Saturday, 19 April 2025, 14:00
- Saturday, 3 May 2025, 14:00
- Saturday, 31 May 2025, 14:00
- Saturday, 7 June 2025, 19:00
- Saturday, 20 June 2025, 18:00
- Tuesday, 22 July 2025, 19:00
- Wednesday, 6 August 2025, 19:00
- Wednesday, 20 August 2025, 19:00
- Tuesday, 16 September 2025, 17:00
- Saturday, 25 October 2025, 11:00
- Saturday, 27 December 2025, 14:00
Dates and times are subject to change.
Good to know!
Whenever possible, please come on foot, by bike, or by bus, as parking along the route is limited.
There is an observation platform available for people with disabilities.
Tip: don’t leave as soon as the lifeboat is in the water! It’s equally impressive to see how the horses pull the boat back out of the sea.
Parking Option 1: Jan Jacobsweg
This location is close to the starting point. From here, you can walk behind the boat to the beach.
Parking Option 2: End of Tjettepad
Traffic attendants will guide you to the parking area.
Cigars & 'Bootwateren"
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.
The disaster of 1979
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.
From the water
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!
Maritime Centre Abraham Fock:
Where to See It All
The Horse-Drawn Rescue Boat and the brave steeds have their home at the Maritime Centre Abraham Fock. Here, you can explore the maritime history of Ameland, admire the rescue boat, and learn about the life-saving actions of the past and present. You can also discover the story of the KNRM, with which Ameland remains closely connected.
In short, the Horse-Drawn Rescue Boat is not just a piece of history; it’s an experience that makes you feel immersed in the maritime life of Ameland. Whether you love adventure, tranquility, or history, this is something you won’t want to miss during your visit to the island!