Volunteer Sailmaker

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Museum Batavialand

Volunteer sailmaker

At the sail-making shop we make sails and other products from sailcloth: tents, bags and other store products. As a matter of principle, we sew everything by hand. Those who come to work here learn sail sewing in 2 styles: modern (19th/20th century) and old-fashioned (as found in the Vasa).

Volunteer speaking: "In 2016, with an enthusiastic group of volunteers, we made two sails for a replica of the Kamper kogge, with which people sailed to the East Sea.

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Department and role

When you become a volunteer at the sailmaking shop, you first make a sample patch. If everything is new to you, this is how you learn the craft. If you can already make sails, the sample patch is your calling card. Besides working on your own skills, you are always ready for a chat with the public and are active in approaching them or helping with the scavenger hunt that comes along.

What do we expect from you?

• You are enthusiastic and want to give visitors and yourself a good time at Museum Batavialand;
• You are available on weekdays and/or weekends;
• You work accurately;
• Knowledge about sailing, sail sewing are very welcome, but we find interest in these subjects equally important.
• Sailmaking instruction is given on Sundays and we expect you to be able to be there regularly on Sundays while you are learning.
• The sail loft is accessible only by a long staircase.

Do you like it?

Then contact volunteer coordinator Miki Weststrate for more information. You can email or call

Step aboard the Batavia, explore its decks, witness the craftsmanship of traditional wooden shipbuilding, and immerse yourself in its many stories.