55°28,4’N 14°17,1’E
The Pleasure of Sailing
And Feeling at Home
BALDER is a ship built to work and converted for pleasure. Whether used as a special home in
the world’s harbours, for weekend adventures with small groups of friends or family or a long
voyage, BALDER provides a harmonious environment for stimulation or relaxation.
A Working Pleasure Ship
The ship has been brought to its present high standard by the current owner, a professional
designer and life-long sailor who has incorporated every detail of quality possible. The result
is this unique motor sailing yacht of outstanding class. One of two remaining ice breaker
steam tug boats of its kind, the other is preserved in the Royal Dutch Naval Museum in Den
Helder.
Built as a working ship in 1915, the 24 metre long BALDER served the Royal Dutch Navy until
its retirement in 1977. Since then it has undergone several major transformations to become
the present 2-masted schooner under 6 sails.
The powerful line of this motor-sailer belies its exceptional comforts. The entire ship’s interior
is beautifully appointed in fine solid wood cabinetry and rich upholsteries. Spacious steering
house/dining and lounge cabins are filled with natural light. Each space accommodates 8
diners or guests. Abundant headspace enables everyone on board to move around freely. The
roomy afterdeck serves in fine weather as a luxurious meeting place for cocktails or informal
dining while the fully equipped galley can give any cook an opportunity to create sumptuous
meals. The wine storage holds more than 50 bottles securely. The office area of the lower
lounge has ample space for 2 people to work comfortably and manage a business.
Three roomy sleeping cabins house 6 persons. The bath features a full bathtub and
standing shower. The laundry room is complete with full-sized washing machine and tumbler
dryer. There are two toilets on board. A fully equipped separate workshop has sufficient
storage for the multitude of tools kept on board such a yacht. The technical spaces – engine
and battery rooms – are spacious, well-ventilated and meet the current Dutch safety
regulations. In fact, due to the meticulously designed interior, there is more than ample
cabinet and closet space to keep a houseful of objects carefully stowed so that not only does
the interior remain visually spacious, but the boat is also ready to sail in a few moment’s time.
Comfort on Board
All aspects of comfort on Balder have been addressed. Even in the coldest weather the
temperature on board is maintained at a comfortable level. Each cabin can be individually
controlled as part of the central heating system which guarantees a cosy sail under all
conditions. A wood burning fireplace in the lower lounge is the centre point for romantic
evenings. Even in heavy weather, the ship’s deep keel and weight in combination with
appropriate sails on the two masts ensure a smooth sailing performance while the strong,
reliable engine makes for fast travelling under motor. Solid, high railings and bowsprit ensure
extremely safe working on deck. The large indoor steering cabin spoils the entire crew on
inclement days. The ship’s tender, BALDERDASH, is a fast quiet transport while at anchor or
for convenience in the harbour.
55°28,4’N 14°17,1’E
The Pleasure of Sailing
And Feeling at Home
Active Sailing
For those seeking a true sailing experience in the traditional sense of the word, this ship is the
perfect vessel. BALDER has been safely sailed for the past 10 years as single-handed sailer by
his owner (plus auto-pilot). Since the owner married, the ship has been even more easily
handled by the couple – who live on board. BALDER’s clear deck plan and uncomplicated
rigging make it easy to sail. As the yacht has been fitted with top quality sailing equipment
throughout and reliable, up-to-date navigation systems, everyone on board can relax in
confidence. And of course the ship is complete with first quality safety/rescue equipment with
a capacity for 12 persons.
BALDER is a timeless ship, full of character with an intriguing history. This is a ship to be
proud of for years to come.