The Wieringer Aak WR4 now has electric power

The debate over what parts of a heritage vessel can and cannot be modernised before it ceases to be ‘original’ is nothing new. In Den Oever, at least, heritage vessels are now permitted to have an electric motor.

Sailing relies on the wind, but sometimes a motor is needed to help out. Until recently, the WR4, a wooden fishing vessel dating from 1900, had a diesel engine for this purpose. This spring, it was replaced by an electric motor, powered by six batteries. This makes sailing the vessel both more sustainable and quieter. The WR4 is thus the first electrified fishing vessel on the Wadden Sea.

The motorisation was preceded by a fundraising campaign. To the surprise of the organisers, this proved very successful; in the end, the entire project was funded by grants and donations, with the exception of a few thousand euros.  The Mondriaan Fund was the largest donor, but the Municipality of Hollands Kroon and the Wieringermeer Wind Farm also contributed significantly. The supplier of the electric motor, Green Marine, contributed by waiving part of the cost.

The successful fundraising enabled the club behind the WR4 to purchase a battery pack consisting of six batteries. This is estimated to provide six hours of ‘motorised’ sailing. This is more than enough for a small sailing vessel such as the barge; after all, it is mainly used when manoeuvring in and out of the harbour. The WR4 and the Wieringer barge WR60 are used to organise trips from Den Oever for anyone interested in learning more about the vessels. The skippers are deeply committed and are passionate about sharing their knowledge of sailing and fishing on the aaks with the public.

On Saturday 27 June, Councillor Robert Leever will officially launch the electrified Wieringer Aak WR4 in a festive ceremony.
At 2.00 pm, Gerrit Kater (chairman of the WR60 and WR4 Foundation) will open the afternoon’s proceedings, with Mark and Jeroen Zijlstra providing the musical entertainment.
Whilst enjoying some light refreshments, visitors will be able to admire the vessel.

The event will take place at the Historische Hoek in the harbour of Den Oever, near the Havenboet (Havenkade 3a, 1779 GT Den Oever).

Further information: 06 – 20 13 53 37 (Tjeerdo Wieberdink)

Source: press release from De Havenboet.
Image: Facebook.

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