Boat Bike Tours: Real stories from aboard and ashore

Episode 17: What guests never see behind a great Boat Bike Tour In this episode, host Ennie talks with Sil Faas from the Boat Bike Tours product development team about what it really takes to design a journey that feels effortless, natural, and memorable. From his early days working on board to his role in shaping routes and experiences today, Sil offers a fascinating look behind the…

Episode 16: Why does slow travel feel so different once you truly settle in? In this episode, host Ennie talks with tour leader Bart about what makes Bike & Boat travel such a special way to discover the Netherlands. From his unexpected path into leading tours, to the quiet moments that help guests relax into the journey, Bart shares how cycling, comfort, and connection come together on board.He talks…

Episode 15: How do strangers become a community in just one week?

In this episode, host Ennie talks with tour leader Mieke van der Werk about what truly keeps the spirit alive on board. From her unexpected switch from chef to cycling guide, to the small rituals that turn guests into friends, Mieke shares how atmosphere, flexibility, and genuine care shape every Bike & Boat journey. She talks about rainy mornings that turn into the best stories, why she never calls it the “slow group,” and how …

Episode 13: Life on board the La Mar

What does life on a Boat Bike Tour really look like when the ship wakes up, when the guests take off on their bikes, and when they return, tired but happy, at the end of the day? In this episode, host Ennie talks with Marnik, owner and skipper of the La Mar, and Jurre, deckhand and future captain. They share honest stories about long days, shared responsibility, and why guests often say that the La …

Episode 12: Meet the CEO behind Boat Bike Tours

How does a small Dutch company grow into an international travel brand without losing its personal touch? In this episode, CEO Laurens Winkel shares the story behind Boat Bike Tours, from his childhood on traditional sailing ships to the values that still guide the company today. He talks about the passion that drives him, the choices he’s proud of, and why quality and care sit at the heart of every journey. What you’ll hear in …

Episode 11: How small changes make a big difference

What makes a cycling holiday feel effortless? For Boat Bike Tours guide and coach Bert Houtenbos, it’s all in the details. From the perfect saddle height to a relaxed pace and the right mindset for every kind of weather, Bert shares how thoughtful guidance turns nervous first-timers into confident riders and how comfort on the bike creates space for joy, discovery, and connection. What you’ll hear in this episode: How tiny bike adjustments can change …

Episode 10 – How cycling together creates unforgettable memories

What makes a Boat Bike Tour truly special? According to veteran tour leader, Tom Stout, it’s not just the beautiful landscapes or the cycling itself; it’s the people you meet and the unexpected moments you share along the way. After leading more than 10,000 travelers in nearly 20 years, Tom reveals how rain showers, small mishaps – yes, things happen! – and spontaneous laughter often create the memories that last the longest. Why a rainy …

Episode 9: What’s it really like when plans change on a Boat Bike Tour?

In this episode, host Ennie sits down with Gerben Sarelse from our Amsterdam office and Hetty van Lemmen, one of our seasoned tour leaders. Together, they reveal how the office and tour leaders work hand-in-hand to manage expectations, handle surprises, and keep every tour running smoothly. From guests asking about the weather on a specific day months in advance, to rerouting tours after floods or even an engine room fire, this is a lively and …

Episode 8: Hugo on 25 years of guiding, biking culture & making friends on tour

What’s it really like to look back on a career leading over 500 Boat Bike Tours? In this episode, host Ennie chats with longtime tour leader Hugo Gietelink. He shares what it’s like to cycle through Europe with guests from around the world, how friendships are formed on the road, and why this job has kept him inspired for over 25 years. From singing with guests to filming their adventures, Hugo’s story is a warm …

Episode 7: Life at the helm – A conversation with skipper Michael

What’s it really like behind the scenes on a Boat Bike Tour? In this episode, host Ennie chats with Michael van den Heuvel, longtime skipper of the De Willemstad. He shares what it’s like for the skipper to run a ship full of international guests, the joys and surprises of life on board, and why the Hanseatic Tour is his favorite. From unexpected tandem bikes in guest cabins to scooter rescues during bike mishaps – …