History

Industrial herritage sails as classical luxurious cruise ship

Build in 1930 by shipyard Boot in Leiden, Netherlands and named 'de Adelaar' (Eagle)

It was one of the first freight ships with a build-in engine, the model name is 'luxe motor'. The ship has been sold a few times and changed names several times as well. The last years as a freighter it sailed with the name 'Frisica 2'.

The main transported cargo was sand & stones through the Netherlands & Germany.

 

A new future for this ship was designed in 2001 when the previous owners Henk & Jantien bought the freighter and coverted it into cruise ship Merlijn the magic of water. One of the most successful Bike & barge ships was born, many satisfied customers can confirm!

02 july 2025

Never did I imagine how amazing (not even a big enough word) was the experience on our trip. From the moment we stepped on the Merlijn, to the moment we stepped off, everything was exquisite. It is clear everyone who works on the Merlijn has a personal interest in her guests. The vessel itself is a work of art, the meals and care given to us, the same, the biking and leadership to get us through the amazing countryside, towns and other biking ventures so artfully and carefully arranged for us, nothing short of excellent. I almost don\'t want to go again because it might not match this experience - but I will!!! Over half of the people on this trip were return visitors - that says it all. I almost didn\'t write this because I want to make sure I can book another trip without competing with others, but everyone should experience this trip at least once.