For many people, a holiday is a natural opportunity for relaxation, adventure and spending time together. But for people with physical disabilities, things are often different. Travelling is not always easy due to limited accessibility and the need for care. On a Zonnebloem ship, however, things are different. The Zonnebloem National Association makes it possible for these people to go on holiday without a care in the world, despite their physical disability or disabilities. With its adapted sailing holidays, it offers thousands of people per year the possibility to enjoy a unique trip on board a ship, accompanied by volunteers.
A carefree holiday
De Zonnebloem’s sailing holidays are specifically designed for adults who, due to a physical disability or chronic illness, are unable to travel independently. On board the fully adapted ship, everything is taken care of: from wheelchair-accessible cabins and bathrooms to professional care and personal support.
For participants, this represents a unique opportunity. Not only to get away from it all, but also to enjoy themselves without a care in the world. Volunteers take over the day-to-day care, allowing guests and their loved ones to truly relax.
The power of togetherness
What makes these holidays special is the social experience. Guests meet others in a similar situation, share experiences and build new connections. At the same time, carers get the chance to step away from their role for a while.
One participant says:
As a carer, I’m completely unburdened. I can fully relax and unwind. What I love most is that I can simply sit down in the restaurant while my wife is looked after by the volunteers.
The trip is also hugely meaningful for couples and families:
As a couple, we can travel without worries again. In a single word: fantastic!
Everything taken care of down to the last detail
During the five-day cruising holiday, there is a strong focus on comfort and the overall experience. With an extensive programme of activities, excursions and convivial moments on board, the guests want for nothing. Medical care, personal care and support are available at all times thanks to a large group of dedicated volunteers.
That dedication is hugely appreciated, as the feedback shows:
This lovely break does us a world of good. Our thanks go especially to the volunteers. Those people work so hard and with such love.
A meaningful experience
For the participants, this trip is much more than a holiday. It is a moment of freedom, of being able to enjoy life ‘normally’ again for a while. A chance to focus not on limitations, but on life itself.
One of them puts it perfectly:
This sailing holiday is a wonderful escape from the daily routine. The feeling of freedom on the water and the camaraderie make it unforgettable.
An experience that lasts
The impact of these holidays extends beyond the trip itself. Participants return with renewed energy, wonderful memories and a sense of belonging once again. For many, it is an experience that continues to have a lasting effect on their daily lives.
Through this initiative, De Zonnebloem demonstrates that people with physical disabilities are entitled to a carefree holiday. A week on the water proves to be not only a relaxing break for them, but above all a valuable experience.
Thanks in part to a financial contribution from the Hurgronje Family Fund, 20 residents of Middelburg with physical disabilities and their carers were able to enjoy a sailing holiday last year.
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