Horse Rescue Boat Demonstrations 2026

The annual demonstrations of the horse rescue boat Secretaris Schumacher are a unique spectacle you shouldn't miss! Experience how the rowing rescue boat was once launched with the help of powerful Frisian horses.

What can you expect at the Horse Rescue Boat Demonstrations?

• Historical Spectacle: Ten strong Frisian horses pull the classic rowing rescue boat from 1900 on a launch carriage through the dunes and over the beach towards the North Sea. This impressive tradition shows how rescue operations were once carried out from the beach and attracts many visitors every summer.
• Spectacular Launch into the Sea: In favourable weather conditions and calm surf, the boat is pulled from the beach into the waves for a sea demonstration.
• Dry Demonstration in Bad Weather: If the surf is too high, a smaller ‘dry’ version of the spectacle is performed, with the horses pulling the boat across the beach without entering the water.
• Unique Summer Event: The demonstrations take place four times each summer at different locations on Terschelling and are a popular attraction for all ages.

Dates and locations of demonstrations 2026

• Thursday 9 July 2026 - 19:30 hrs: Beach of Oosterend, near Heartbreakhotel
• Thursday 23 July 2026 - 19:30 hrs: Beach at Pole 8, KNRM station, Pavilion West aan Zee
• Thursday 6 August 2026 - 19:30 hrs: Beach of Oosterend, near Heartbreakhotel
• Sunday 13 September 2026 - 14:30 hrs: Beach at Pole 8, KNRM station, Pavilion West aan Zee

Note: Dates and times are subject to change. The launch into the sea will only take place in favourable weather conditions and safe surf.

Don't miss this unique piece of maritime history!

Come to the beach of Terschelling and be swept away by the impressive interplay of humans, animals, and nature during the annual Horse Rescue Boat Demonstrations!