With the corona period behind us, we’ve been able to return to our regular schedule of events. It was time for our annual summer event. This year, Diana arranged a boat trip in a salon boat along the Vecht towards Loenen and Vreeland. We had to work around the bridge opening times, so everyone had to shut down their computers on time to ensure the trip could start on schedule. It’s always tricky to get everyone to drop everything and leave, but we all left the office on time, thanks to Diana and her watchful eye.
On board for the summer event
After a short drive to Nieuwersluis, we boarded the salon boat Swaenenvecht on time. The Swaenenvecht is a charming, well-maintained historic boat with a welcoming captain. Designed and built in 1908 for Dr W.H. Teupken, he used it as a pleasure craft. Beautifully restored, it was converted in 2005 to use an electric motor, allowing for silent and sustainable cruises. The boat is fully covered, and one can roll up the sailcloth side sheets in good weather to enjoy the sights even more.
On the Vecht in the Swaenenvecht
We needed that roof, and the side sheets, as the weather did not cooperate. However, opening and closing the sides (as required) was straightforward, so we were all in a sunny mood – despite the weather.
It was very cosy on the Swaenenvecht, and as the boat glided serenely along the river ‘Vecht’, we could enjoy the many houseboats and beautiful houses and gardens on both river banks. The Vecht is gorgeous in almost any weather or season.
We could also enjoy a drink from the well-stocked bar and the many different types of cheese, cold cuts, fish and more they provided during the trip. Despite the less-than-perfect weather, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the boat trip, the food and the company.
Bistrotel ‘t Amsterdammertje
After the boat trip, we returned to Nieuwersluis, mooring beside the bridge. The summer event continued in the restaurant of Bistrotel ‘t Amsterdammertje – a restaurant that until recently enjoyed the name “the naughty soldier” – possibly because the building opposite was once a military prison. In the restaurant, everyone sat at a long table to enjoy a delicious dinner from the ‘t Amsterdammertje.
The choices had been made earlier at the office so the chefs could prepare everything quickly. Still, this presents a few challenges, as some of us didn’t remember what they had ordered. But after a little puzzling and consulting Diana’s lists, everyone still got their chosen main course.
Enjoying the Summer Event
And after a delicious dessert and an excellent meal during which work was also occasionally discussed, our summer event came to a close. And as evidenced by the various quotes below, everyone enjoyed the boat trip and the event “to the max”.
Patrick
“We enjoyed a nice boat trip from Nieuwersluis towards Vegtlust while enjoying a delicious lunch. And when we returned, we had a great dinner with the BSL team. Despite the less than perfect weather, BSL always has a Bright Side of Life atmosphere.”
Eric
“Delicious fish (sole), appropriate after the fun boat trip on the Vecht.”
Jurjen
“A bit of rain, and we were travelling by boat, so no lack of water. I had tasty refreshments on the boat and then went to the restaurant for the main meal. A tasty and enjoyable day!”
Peter
“Despite the gloomy weather, it was a cheerful atmosphere on board and a fun evening in the restaurant.”
Roderick
“A little drizzle couldn’t spoil the fun. A nice boat trip (with snacks!) and a splendid dinner at ’t Amsterdammertje.”
Marc
“During the trip, we all enjoyed the boat trip and all the delicious food.”
