Daytrip Tiengemeten

You can therefore expect an interesting cruise to the nature island of Tiengemeten. If you want to see a beautiful landscape with beavers, Scottish highlanders and birds like the osprey, board at the Spido quay in Rotterdam. The natural monument of Tiengemeten offers both spectacular views and a wonderful vacation feeling. You are truly a day out. Discover the secret spots of the island during the adventurous hike led by the guides of Natuurmonumenten. Tiengemeten is also highly recommended for people who enjoy peace and quiet and want to walk in nature. Put on your walking shoes and step aboard with us.

The history of Tiengemeten

Tiengemeten gets its name from the “gemet,” an old surface measure, about half a hectare. This island originated around 1600 as a small sandbar of about 10 gemet, which is about 4 hectares. Since 1750, the island has been diked and inhabited. At the end of the last century, wild plans were devised for another use. Nature won out and Natuurmonumenten obtained management of the island in 2007. By restoring the old cultural landscape, local history remains visible alongside the new nature.

On the island you can learn about the cultural history, think of monuments such as workhouses, the sheafthouse, the potato shed and the large barn in which the Visitor Center is located. Tiengemeten did not become completely uninhabited, however. The island still has nine permanent residents. And the 26 permanent residents of care farm De Idahoeve take care of the farm and the farmland.

Nice walks away from the crowds

The island has many different landscapes. The vast wilderness with open water offers adventure for young and old. Bird lovers can discover all kinds of birds in the tidal area with water, grasslands, mud flats, marshes and woods. With a little luck you will even spot spoonbills. On the eastern side of the island, the farmland of the nineteenth century stretches before you. On the small-scale fields grow crops such as flax and buckwheat. Apple and pear trees grow in the orchard and Dutch draft horses graze on the dike. Further on we look for beavers and see Scottish highlanders.

The central marsh is a walhalla for birdwatchers. They can spot numerous species of migratory birds and birds of prey here. In the west of the island, the water has free play. In this tidal area, loved by bald eagles and beavers, you can wander to your heart’s content. Here you will experience the isolation and ruggedness of Tiengemeten, a dynamic area with wild nature.

Feel at home on board

The coffee and tea with apple pie and whipped cream we serve on board are the prelude to a special day. After the captain’s welcome, we sail towards Tiengemeten. The enthusiastic guides from Natuurmonumenten have already boarded the boat. Even before we arrive at the island in the Haringvliet, they will tell us about the history of Tiengemeten, the landscape and the animals that live there. After lunch we moor in the small harbor and disembark.
During a one and a half hour walk you will get a good impression of the nature island. You will definitely take in the unique atmosphere of Tiengemeten.

Along the Drechtsteden

On the way out, we sail via the Oude Maas and the Spui to Tiengemeten. On the way back, we pass the historic center of Dordrecht, among other places. In the afternoon you get a surprise from the chef. You will not be bored for a second during the cruise.

Do you like to walk?

Do you find the combination of sailing and walking ideal? Then see when you can sail along to the special island of Tiengemeten. The Royal Spido crew is ready for you to give you an unforgettable day. We wish you an enjoyable cruise!