Once or twice a year (generally on six consecutive Saturdays in October/November and February/March), we offer a one-day-a-week bosun course where essential nautical skills, such as splicing rope and steel wire, welding, sewing of sails, surveying the rig and spars, and general knowledge of maintenance and ships materials are taught.
As noted below, some parts of the course take place at locations away from Enkhuizen. You are expected to make the necessary travel arrangements by yourself or by joining fellow course participants.
The course covers the following subjects: Ropework: making and understanding the most common knots on board; splicing. Sail repair: repairing sails using a sewing machine or by hand (takes place in Medemblik). Rigging theory: insight into the construction of rigging; forces in the mast; blocks. Practical rigging: climbing in the "Kaatje"; where to look for wear and tear in spars, fittings and ropes. Spars and woodwork: construction and maintenance of spars; identifying weak spots. Welding: principles of welding, which method is used for what? Making an object (takes place in Groningen!). Steel wire: steel wire on board; splicing; using clamps. Paint systems: which system can be used for what; preparation and maintenance. Boatswain's practice: modern ropes; winches; knowledge of materials.
Total hours: 45 Duration: 6 consecutiveSaturdays from 9 am to 5.45 pm.
Dates for 2023 The first course in 2023 will be held between January 28 and March 4, 2023 and is now FULL.
The autumn 2023 course is planned for October/November 2023, but the precise dates have not been set.
Language: 50% Dutch, 50% English. Some knowledge of the Dutch language is therefore required!
Completion: certificate awarded to participants, subject to satisfactory completion of all modules. In addition, participants are generally offered the possibility to undertake a one or two day trip on a sailing vessel (at additional cost) to put some of the skills learned into practice.
Course fees:check our list with school fees. Entry requirements: none. More info? Send an e-mail to info@ezs.nl.