In line with our schedule we departed today for Enkhuizen, after first stopping at the communal water tap. It was a pleasant and straightforward cruise close to the west coast of the Markermeer, ending at the buoyed channel approach to the Krabbersgatsluizen. A naviduct lock now supplements the previous bridge and lock complex, providing plenty of capacity through the Houtribdijk, which divides the northern and southern parts of the IJsselmeer.

Immediately to port on leaving the lock complex is the old fortified town of Enkhuizen. We chose the innermost harbour, which is more sheltered, central and scenic than even the Buitenhaven, where many yachts go, or the two marinas on the edge of town. With water and electricity provided by security key this was a comfortable and attractive berth for our weekend stay. The Drommedaris tower which guards the entrance was built in 1540 and the carillon chimes ring out a melodic tune on the hour and half hour.

A town walk, guided by a tourist office map, was our afternoon's introduction to the area. Many of the buildings from the golden age survive, when the Dutch East India Company unloaded spices on the quay and a fortress wall defended the city from intrusion. The town hall, jail house and cheese weighing building complete the picture of 17th century life.

The main attraction of the town is the extensive ZuiderZee Museum. An open air section presents neighbourhoods of authentic villages, some reconstructions and some actual buildings which have been saved and resited within the museum. In the indoor museum a range of exhibits tell the often turbulent history of the Zuiderzee.

Cruising Statistics

Distance:12 nm

Total to date: 1085 nm

Avg Speed: 6 knots

Duration: 2 hours

Diesel: 40 litres

Mooring: €12

Electricity: €0,45/kwH

Bridges

Drommedaris (lift)

Lock

Krabbersgat Naviduct

Charts

1810.5

1810.4