Meet Our Customers: Arjen and Amanda - Our Sailing Trip

Hey, great to see you! We are Arjen and Amanda, two avid sailors with a shared love of adventure on the water. During the week we both work in education, but on weekends and holidays we prefer to head straight to the boat. We go out on the water with our son Sascha and our faithful four-legged friend Fedde. Together we enjoy the peace, freedom and excitement of sailing.

From new love to sailing virus

Sailing has been in Arjen's blood since childhood; he grew up in a family that already knew the water. Amanda, on the other hand, was a landlubber when we met. But when we got into a relationship, I (Arjen) took her out on the water, on our first boat, a Compromise 720. We took many trips together and before we knew it, Amanda was also infected with the sailing bug. It became something we enjoyed together as a couple and now make our most beautiful memories as a family.

Our boats so far

Our first boat, the Compromis 720, felt like our second home on the water. We learned a lot on it and it was an ideal boat for Amanda to develop her sea legs. When we were ready for something bigger, we switched to a Friendship 28, on which we took our first trips abroad.

Since this summer, we have been sailing on a Dufour 385 Grand Large. This boat gives us exactly the space and possibilities we want: a boat with enough comfort for longer trips and suitable for taking Sascha and Fedde safely along on our adventures.

Our sailing area - from the Netherlands to far beyond

Where we sail? Basically wherever there is water! At weekends, we often stay in the Netherlands: the IJsselmeer, Markermeer and the Wadden Sea are our favourites. But as soon as the summer holidays arrive, we head abroad. In recent years, for instance, we have sailed with the Friendship 28 to England, the Channel Islands, Belgium, France, Germany, Denmark and Sweden. Each trip has its own charm and challenges, and we always try to discover new places.

Our most beautiful trips

What is the most beautiful trip we have ever taken? That's actually impossible to choose. Our first time in England on our own keel felt like a milestone - one of those moments when everything falls together and you really feel the adventure. But the trip to the Channel Islands was also fantastic: the nature there, the clear waters and the rugged coastlines are impressive. Actually, it is often the "first times" that stick with you. Our first crossing to the German Bight, the first time to Denmark... They remain magical experiences that we want to relive again and again.

How we ended up at Smartmarine

While we still had our Friendship, we decided we wanted to make this boat completely seaworthy for longer trips. We were looking for someone who could think along with us and give tailor-made advice on the right equipment. This is how we ended up with Hans from Smartmarine. We gave him the challenge of putting together a set of equipment that suited our needs perfectly and that would allow us to sail safely at sea. Hans grabbed it with both hands and knew exactly what we needed - what a fine experience that was!

Our first purchase at Smartmarine

First impression of Smartmarine

Our first impression of Smartmarine? They really have an eye for the customer. They are not about selling, but about delivering a solution that suits what you want. They think with you, listen carefully, and give honest advice. You really appreciate that, especially when you are just starting out with a project like the one we had at the time.

What we have since acquired through Smartmarine

Besides the AIS, VHF radio, and multiplexer, we later bought several other components through Smartmarine. It is now natural for us to turn to them for the boat's electronics. We know they always think with us and make sure we have the right gear.

Our experience with Smartmarine

Top experience! For us, Smartmarine is the address for everything to do with boat electronics. Whether we have questions, need advice or want to buy something, we know we are in the right place with them.

What makes Smartmarine unique?

At Smartmarine, you are not a number. They see you not just as a client, but as a human being with specific wants and needs. They really listen to you, and that personal contact makes all the difference. We feel heard and helped, and we really appreciate that.

Would you recommend Smartmarine?

Absolutely! For anyone who has serious plans for their boat and needs advice on the right equipment, Smartmarine is highly recommended as far as we are concerned.

Ideas for Smartmarine

Maybe an annual "Smartmarinier party" for all loyal customers? A nice BBQ, music and maybe some entertainment - we do have some suggestions, haha!

Our future Travel Plans

Our motto? To the horizon and beyond! We never know exactly what the future holds, but for next summer we are thinking of a last-minute adventure. Maybe Norway, maybe the Scilly Isles - we like to be surprised by what the world has to offer.

Hopefully this gives a nice insight into our life on the water and our adventures with the boat. We are extremely grateful for the help and support of Smartmarine, who help us realise our dreams on the water time and again.

Here's to many more unforgettable trips!

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