After making a decision to travel to Europe to purchase a boat in 2012 and having been advised to go to the Netherlands and not to France Jayne and I ventured into the Boat Show at Blokzijl on a very cold weekend.
There we inspected many boats and after meeting some lovely people we were introduced to Johan who showed us ‘Carat’ which was advertised way above the budget we had set for ourselves.
After inspection of the boat and discovering its many assets, negotiations were entered into and an acceptable price was met and contracts signed. Johan was most helpful during the whole procedure and reassured us of the situation at all times. Johan arranged for us to sail the boat back to Zwartsluis on the Monday and for the boat to be lifted out of the water and inspected. He also had the head mechanic assist us with any queries we had.
Being very new to boating Johan was very quick to impart his knowledge and gave us lessons in boat handling, berthing and managing locks. On our first venture out alone he came aboard and sailed with us throughout the first lock to see that things were ok and then left us to carry on. On returning to the Marina five days later he saw us entering and he made his way to our birth to make sure we tied up safely and mored ok.
At all times I knew that if I had any questions at all I could go to Johan with them and he would assist and with his vast sailing knowledge and handling skills he would be able to help.
Since our purchase in 2012 Jayne and I have sailed the Netherlands extensively for two six month seasons having a truly wonderful time making new friends from all over Holland and around the world.
It has been so enjoyable we will be back again in 2014 for a further five months, this time venturing south of the Netherlands through Belgium and into France.
I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending or using Johans’ services again should I wish to purchase a boat.
+31 527 29 1111
+31 653 298 981
info@buyaboatinholland.com 