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!

11 july 2024

It\'s been 2 months since our fantastic trip and I still think about it every day! Coen and Christina are committed to excellence in every aspect - and I think they\'ve gotten better since my first trip with them 3 years ago! The Netherlands is a pristine and beautiful landscape, the food on and off the boat was spectacular, and my friends and I had the time of our lives! The trip was super organized, and our guide was personable and knowledgeable. I highly recommend the Merlijn and hope to go back a third time!!