Customers Fam. Zwaans
Our search for a new boat began online, where we came across Boarnstream. Our decision to go with Boarnstream was ultimately based on quality. The Boarnstream Classic was significantly more solidly built than, for example, a Linssen, which was a decisive factor for us.
We live in Australia, where doing business may be a bit different than in the Netherlands. However, from our first contact with Boarnstream in 2012, we experienced a very pleasant collaboration. Wies and the team were always professional and helpful. Minor issues in the beginning were resolved immediately, and every winter our Res Nova was stored in Boarnstream’s hall for maintenance. All work was always carried out properly and on time.
Building a boat remotely went smoothly. Communication was excellent, and Wies regularly sent us photos of the progress, which made the process even more enjoyable.
Our love for boating started a long time ago. In 1978, we emigrated to Australia. My father owned a tanker shipping company and a marina in Dordrecht, Jachthaven Westergoot, which still exists today. As a child, I grew up among ships and yachts. We used to import Chris Craft yachts from the US and boats from Finland. It was special to see a Chris Craft sailing in Amsterdam last year—one that I had personally delivered in the late 1960s.
When we emigrated, we made the crossing to Australia with our own motor yacht—a fascinating and adventurous journey. After selling that boat, we had a 20-meter motor yacht in Australia for the Murray River, built by a Dutch boatbuilder. Unfortunately, that cruising area offered little variety, and since we had already spent enough time at sea, my wife wasn’t very enthusiastic about it anymore. That’s how the idea arose to own a boat in the Netherlands again, once I could partially retire.
In 2012, the time had come: my son-in-law was able to take over our business, and we rented a boat in Friesland to explore the possibilities. We nearly bought a Linssen, but fortunately, we met Wies and decided to order the Res Nova.
Although my wife no longer enjoys sailing at sea, we had to sail 20 miles offshore every 18 months and check in and out with customs due to the VAT regulations. Nevertheless, we still made some beautiful sea voyages, including twice to London.
Each year, we spend four to five months in the Netherlands living aboard. We’ve sailed extensively—through the French canals (including Paris), Belgium, all over the Netherlands, the Moselle, and this year, Berlin is on the itinerary. Our boat is used intensively, with an average of 200 to 250 engine hours per season.
For maintenance and winter storage, we fully rely on Boarnstream’s Yachtservice. We also often recommend them to other boat owners. On our travels, we even met another Australian boat, Longreach from Adelaide, which is now also at Boarnstream thanks to our recommendation. The team is reliable, professional, and always delivers excellent work.
