Press, Twist, Pull
The TX20 departs from the harbour of Oudeschild, the vibrant heart of Texel’s fishing industry. As soon as you step on board, you can feel that this is a real ship – full of character, with ropes, nets, a sturdy galley, and a crew that knows the ropes. No frills, just quality.
After a short sail across the Wadden Sea, the nets are cast. A little while later, the catch is brought on deck: shrimp, crabs, small fish, starfish, shells – you name it. The crew will sort the catch with you and enthusiastically explain what you’re looking at. Why shrimp are curved, what a hermit crab does, and which fish are better left untouched.
Some of the shrimp are cooked on board – and yes, you may peel and taste them yourself. With your hands, as it should be. Or, as the crew puts it: press, twist, pull. All while gazing out over the water, the sky above you, and Texel in the distance. It doesn’t get more Texel than this.
Seal spotting and sea tales
As if that weren’t enough – there’s a good chance you’ll spot seals. They rest on sandbanks or swim curiously past the boat. Sometimes, they look you right in the eye – as if *you* were the one being watched. And honestly? You are. You are a guest in their natural habitat.
Meanwhile, the skippers will tell you all about life on the water, the ship’s history, the fishing trade, and the creatures that live in the Wadden Sea. No rehearsed speeches – just real-life stories, partly educational, partly Texel-style humor. Just right for a trip like this.
Prefer a ‘regular’ seal spotting tour? That’s possible too – click here!
Warm, welcoming, and for everyone
A bit chilly or a rain shower coming through? No problem. The TX20 has a heated galley where you can sit comfortably, protected from the wind and with a sea view. A place to warm up, grab a coffee or a Texel beer, and take a break from peeling shrimp. The atmosphere on board is relaxed, and everyone feels at ease right away.
The boat is wheelchair accessible, and your dog is welcome too. This makes the trip ideal for young and old, families, groups of friends, and everyone in between.
A Texel experience to remember
Whether this is your first time visiting Texel or you’ve been returning for years – this is one trip you simply have to experience. The combination of sailing, learning, seeing, tasting, and just being truly outside makes this an outing you’ll remember.
Click here for more information about shrimp fishing on Texel!
