From 7.7. To 9.7.2017, the Hobie Island Rendezvous was held at the Grevelingen, the Netherlands. After the two previous events organised by Hobie Kayak Europe, Sebastian and Olli from Catawest took over the organisation.
Zeil en Surfcentrum Brouwersdam on the northern part of the Grevelingen sea offers perfect conditions for the Hobie Islands and its participants: Moorings for the boats, a restaurant with service almost around the clock, an accommodation directly on the water and much more. This made choice of the venue easy again. Hobie Kayak Europe helped out by lending a hand and the very important BBQs.
The start could not be better Friday night. A beautiful sunset was the perfect setting for a 3-star dinner. Axel Masberg was allowed to live out his secret passion as “Chef Du Cuisine” and delighted everyone with a 5-course menu of the finest variety. After announcing to start Saturday morning at 10 AM, the first evening came to an end.
Saturday turned out to be perfect. Days with 3 Bft wind, sunny and a pleasant 22°C are extremely rare, but we caught the right day. The entire fleet, consisting of a total of 11 Hobie Islands (3 Adventure and 8 Tandem Islands), was able to enjoy sailing on the Grevelingen. To regain strength after a morning of sailing, all kayaks beached a small island. A pop-up Hot Dog stall served everybody a delicious lunch. After everybody finished their plates, the wind turned and all Islands set sail back to the starting point. Saturday finds it end late as everybody enjoys a nice BBQ and share some drinks to close of a perfect day.
When everybody got to the beach in the morning, the conditions seemed the same as the day before. Sunny and nice 22°C. Unfortunately, the wind decided to get out of the area. Even despite the lack of wind, everybody was eager to get out on the water. There was going to be a group photo on the water. Everyone got on the water, sailed around for a little bit before heading back to load the boats and return to their homes already having the next Hobie Island Rendezvous on their mind.
We would like to say thanks to all the participants, Franky for his help on land and on the water, the team from Zeil en Surfcentrum Brouwersdam and the Team of Segelvereinigung Huckingen for everybody’s help, dedication and company during this amazing event.
Olli and Sebastian
