The Deutsche Hämophilie Gesellschaft (DHG) youth successfully completed its third consecutive sailing adventure, taking 12 young participants aged 14-19 on an extraordinary voyage through the Netherlands’ Wadden Sea from April 13-18, 2025. This year’s expedition marked an exciting departure from previous routes, with participants exploring the unique landscape of the Wadden Sea instead of the familiar IJsselmeer waters.
The majority of participants live with bleeding disorders, joined by siblings and friends, creating a supportive community atmosphere focused on peer connection and shared experiences.
The five-day journey was packed with memorable moments that went far beyond traditional sailing. One of the trip’s most talked-about highlights occurred on the very first day when the crew intentionally grounded their vessel during low tide – a planned adventure that allowed participants to walk on the exposed seabed, collect shells, and experience the Wadden Sea’s famous tidal flats firsthand. Despite the cold temperatures, exploring the seabed was incredible, and the shells collected became part of their evening meal preparation, adding a sense of accomplishment to the dining experience. The adventure continued with an overnight stay anchored offshore rather than in harbor, providing participants with an authentic maritime experience under the stars.
The voyage included stops at two of the West Frisian Islands, each offering unique experiences and opportunities for exploration. On Terschelling, the largest destination, participants embarked on a cycling tour that led them across stunning sandy beaches where they enjoyed refreshments at a beachside bar. The island also served as a resupply point, with participants collaboratively preparing all onboard meals in a lively and engaging atmosphere. Vlieland offered its own charms, including a visit to a local seafood establishment and the opportunity for the more adventurous to take a brisk dip in North Sea waters.
Throughout the journey, participants weren’t just passengers – they were active crew members contributing to every aspect of the vessel’s operation. From hoisting and lowering sails to navigating and anchoring, everyone played their part, with a particularly popular activity being climbing the bow netting to retrieve fenders, always conducted with proper safety equipment. The educational component extended beyond sailing skills, with dedicated time for discussions about living with bleeding disorders, sharing experiences from school and work environments, and addressing challenges in sports participation.
The trip’s relaxed atmosphere fostered meaningful connections among participants while building practical skills and confidence, creating an environment where young people could discuss their treatment experiences and daily challenges in a supportive setting.
The success of this year’s expedition has organisers already planning for 2026, with hopes of expanding the program internationally to welcome participants from other European countries, adding an incredible intercultural dimension to the program. The DHG Youth sailing programme continues to demonstrate the power of adventure-based learning in building confidence, fostering peer relationships, and providing young people with bleeding disorders unforgettable experiences that extend far beyond the harbor.
DHG expressed its gratitude to the EHC for the Activity Grant that made this event possible.
