A barge in Frisian is a skûtsje. It is also the name of an originally wooden Frisian tjalk that was built for freight transport on the Frisian inland waterways. A skûtsje is always built in Friesland and no longer than 20 meters. Due to the slender construction, the ships could sail extra quickly and manoeuvrably on the Frisian waters. The first Frisian skûtsjes were built in the 18th century and it was not until the twenties of the 20th century that the ships were equipped with auxiliary engines.
Competitions with skûtsjes
After the Second World War, more and more large inland vessels were built that could carry tons of cargo and more and more skûtsjes were converted into homes on the water. At the end of the fifties, a new period of prosperity arose for the Frisian skûtsjes. Private owners brought their ship back to more or less original condition and even competitions were held with it. This skûtsjesilen is now very popular in the land of the Frisian lakes. The sailing competitions between boats from different Frisian villages and towns are organized in July and August during 11 race days and three rest days at various locations. On the last day in Sneek, the champion of that year is honored.
Self skûtsjesilen
If you are staying in a holiday home in Friesland, you should definitely go and see such a spectacular match. And would you like to sail along with an authentic skûtsje? Then take a look at Annage.nl They rent out skûtsjes and offer a choice of all kinds of packages and different ships. You can even sail on a skûtsje with your family for a few hours.
