€6,130 raised for SailWise during Maritime Industry 2025
The 19th edition of Maritime Industry, held on May 20, 21, and 22, 2025, at Evenementenhal Gorinchem, was not just about innovation, networking, and business success. On Thursday, May 22, the focus was on social engagement, with the SailWise Foundation taking center stage. With a heartwarming total of no less than €6,130, the sector underscored its commitment to an inclusive society in which everyone can sail along—literally and figuratively.
For over 50 years, the SailWise Foundation has been organizing adventurous water sports vacations for people with physical or intellectual disabilities. On Thursday, May 22, this special organization was honored as the theme of the day.
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Successful lottery campaign
One of the highlights of the day was the special raffle, organized to raise funds for the major maintenance of the Lutgerdina—SailWise’s historic, fully adapted sailing ship. SailWise volunteers actively took to the exhibition floor to sell raffle tickets. The grand prize? A unique experience: sailing on the Lutgerdina during SAIL Amsterdam—an experience valued at €1,000.
The raffle was enthusiastically received by the public. Thanks to everyone’s efforts, an impressive total of €6,130 was raised. This amount will go directly toward the Lutgerdina, which is set to undergo a thorough overhaul this coming winter.
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Major maintenance for the Lutgerdina
The Lutgerdina is a unique vessel within the Dutch fleet. This classic sailing ship has been fully adapted for people with disabilities and serves as the centerpiece of many SailWise activities. To keep her safe and accessible, a major maintenance round is planned for this winter. This includes inspection of the hull, replacement of batteries, and maintenance of crucial equipment such as the onboard hoists. The total cost is estimated at over €50,000.
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Beer tasting featuring a special SailWise beer
To wrap up the theme day, a lively beer tasting took place on Thursday afternoon in the Nautical Arena. Brewery Het Havendok had brewed a unique SailWise beer especially for the occasion. Between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., visitors could relax with a craft beer, chat, share experiences, and toast to a successful campaign day.
