KNRM Station Marken surprised by large donation

On Saturday 10 May, after the annual KNRM Rescue Boat Day and the Open Harbour Day of Jachthaven Waterland in Monnickendam, KNRM Station Marken was once again surprised with a generous donation of no less than €5,120. This contribution comes from Waterland Yacht Charter (Jachthaven Waterland) and their owners Jan and Nienke Zetzema – loyal supporters of the KNRM since 1988.

“As a water sports company, we know how important fast and professional help is on the water,” says Jan. “When KNRM station Marken came into the picture, the choice was quickly made: a local station that is close to our harbour felt like a logical destination for our support.”

FROM 2008 PROCEEDS TO KNRM MARKEN

The annual donation is the result of close cooperation between the harbour company and visitors. During the Open Harbour Day, Jachthaven Waterland organises a Nautical Market, where (second-hand) water sports articles are sold. Jan explains: “Since 2008, the entire proceeds of this market have gone to KNRM Station Marken. We have been doing this for the 17th year in a row now, and every year it is special to see how much we can achieve together.”

After KNRM Rescue Day at 16:00, the 2 lifeboats from the station, with almost the entire crew and local committee, headed for Monnickendam to personally receive the donation. On the way, they were also on hand to help a ship in trouble, where the gennaker with all lines was wrapped around the furling jib. When they arrived at the harbour, the crew was warmly welcomed again. “It is always a great moment to enter the harbour with 2 lifeboats and to feel and see mutual enthusiasm and expectations,” says Marian van der Weele, chair of KNRM Station Marken. “The amount is of course the biggest surprise, but also the wonderful way in which the donation is presented.”

JACHTHAVEN WATERLAND STUNTS AGAIN

This never happens ‘just like that’, but always in a playful way: on a paddle, a boat or a jacket. This year, deputy skipper Pouwel van Altena was given a life jacket, with the request to unfold it on dry land, after which the donation of no less than €5,120 was revealed. Still higher than last year!

“This contribution is very welcome. The KNRM does not receive any government support and runs entirely on donations, gifts and volunteers. Every euro contributes directly to our efforts on the Gouwzee and the Markermeer – from maintenance of boats and rescue equipment to fuel and training,” says Pouwel.

Nienke Zetzema attributes the success to the fact that it is so much easier to sell something for the KNRM than for yourself. “The good cause is close to our hearts, and that enthusiasm is infectious.”

The KNRM Station Marken would like to thank Jachthaven Waterland, Jan and Nienke Zetzema and all visitors to the Open Harbour Day for their continued support and warm involvement.