Rank: Captain

About: As captain and proud owner of this majestic vessel, I've navigated the seas with a passion that runs as deep as the ocean itself. From the moment the wind catches our sails to the breathtaking sunsets painting the horizon, every journey aboard the BlackBird is a testament to the wonders of the maritime world. But our adventures aren't just about exploring the vast blue expanse. As a dedicated instructor, I find immense joy in teaching children the art of Optimist sailing. Watching their faces light up as they grasp the intricacies of navigation fills my heart with pride and reminds me of the magic that comes with sharing my love for the sea. When I'm not out on the water, you can often find me carving up the slopes, as skiing is another passion of mine. Whether it's gliding through fresh powder or racing down the mountainside, the thrill of the snow is an exhilarating contrast to the serenity of the sea. So come aboard the BlackBird, where every voyage is an opportunity to learn, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Adventure awaits!

Rank First Mate

About: Not only is Marjolijn the proud owner of our majestic vessel, but she also stands as its fearless first mate. With a steady hand and a heart full of passion, she guides us through every nautical journey, ensuring smooth sailing and endless smiles. But Marjolijn's talents extend far beyond the sea. As a dedicated instructor, she shares her love for sailing with children, igniting their curiosity and shaping them into confident sailors. With her patient guidance, even the smallest sailors learn to navigate the waters with grace and skill. Yet, Marjolijn's love for teaching doesn't end there. On land, she swaps the sea breeze for the crisp mountain air, sharing her passion for skiing with eager learners. As a teacher's assistant and pedagogical concierge, she brings joy and knowledge to every aspect of her work, nurturing young minds both on and off the slopes. So whether she's hoisting sails, carving through snow, or guiding students to new heights of knowledge, Marjolijn is the true embodiment of adventure and inspiration. Join us aboard the BlackBird, where every voyage is a testament to her unwavering spirit and boundless dedication.

Rank Second Mate

About: Meet Merel, our youngest crew member at just 13 years old, but with a spirit as vast as the ocean and dreams that reach for the stars. Currently studying at the Havo/VWO, Merel has her sights set on becoming a marine biologist, driven by her deep love for the sea and its mysteries. With every sail unfurled and each dip into the azure waters, she discovers new wonders beneath the waves, fueling her passion for understanding and protecting marine life. When she's not diving into her studies or exploring the depths, Merel finds joy and freedom on the waves in her trusty Splash. With the wind in her sails and a sparkle in her eye, she navigates the seas with skill and determination, always ready for the next exhilarating adventure. But Merel's love for adventure doesn't end there. Whether she's carving through fresh powder on the slopes or smashing shuttlecocks on the badminton court, she embraces every moment with boundless energy and enthusiasm. Join us aboard the BlackBird and watch as Merel's dreams take flight, carried by the wind and guided by the endless possibilities that lie ahead. The sea awaits, and so does her next great adventure!

Rank Main / Jib trimmer

About: Dick Bijl, our steadfast jib trimmer extraordinaire, who adds the zest of competition to our sailing adventures! Dick is our reliable mainsail trimmer during club races at both WSV de Dintel and Herkingen, as well as our competitive spirit during the 40 Mile Race from Bru. Despite not owning a boat himself, Dick's expertise and passion for sailing make him an invaluable member of our crew. When he's not trimming sails and chasing victory on the water, Dick spends half of the year basking in the sunny shores of Valencia. With its warm breezes and sparkling seas, it's a sailor's paradise that we hope to visit one day aboard the BlackBird. So, here's to Dick, the sailor without a boat, whose love for the sport knows no bounds, and whose presence adds an extra dash of excitement to every race and adventure. Fair winds and following seas await us, perhaps even in the sunny harbor of Valencia!

Rank Deck Swap / Movie creator

About: Menno Mulder, our newest crew member whose passion for filmmaking knows no bounds. Despite being relatively new to the world of sailing, Menno's enthusiasm knows no bounds as he eagerly joins us on our adventures. With his keen eye and creative flair, he captures the essence of our voyages, turning them into breathtaking visual stories that leave us in awe. Living with ADHD, Menno's boundless energy and unique perspective infuse our crew with vitality and excitement. His adventurous spirit and unwavering determination make him a valuable addition to our team, bringing a fresh perspective and endless creativity to every journey. Whether he's capturing the dance of the waves, the majesty of a sunset, or the camaraderie of our crew, Menno's films transport us to another world, where the beauty of the sea and the thrill of adventure are brought to life. So here's to Menno Mulder, the filmmaker extraordinaire and a cherished member of our crew. With his talent behind the lens, our adventures aboard the BlackBird are truly unforgettable. Fair winds and happy filming, Menno!