Sailwise, an organization that has captured our hearts, makes water sports accessible to people with disabilities. It means that everyone can enjoy the fun and freedom of the water, regardless of their limitations. Their unique approach brings participants and volunteers together, blurring boundaries and creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. It’s all about cooperation, fun and unlimited possibilities!

The beautiful island of Robinson Crusoe, which serves as our home port, welcomed us with open arms. The recently renovated accommodation for 30 people exuded a homey feel that immediately created a sense of belonging. But where was everyone? We soon found out that everyone was on the water, participating in various water sports.

From sailing to canoeing, from king-size SUP’ing to power boating, everyone was enjoying their favorite activity. Sailwise provides intelligent adjustments to the boats so that each participant has the freedom to enjoy the activities at their own pace. Simple solutions with a big impact!

The convivial hustle and bustle that ensued as soon as the participants returned was a sight to behold. Laughing, cleaning up together, and others throwing themselves into preparing dinner (a tasty nasi was on the menu) – everything was effortless and relaxed. Nothing had to be done, nothing had to be fixed, and everyone was given space to relax and enjoy themselves.

We were deeply touched by our encounter with Sailwise. The passion and dedication of Renske and her team is admirable. And it was even more special to realize that one of our own team members, Dave Long, is volunteering his time to make a valuable contribution to this amazing work.

With warm feelings and a symbolic check in support of Sailwise, we bid farewell to this inspiring oasis of watersports. We wish all the participants and volunteers a continuation of their amazing vacation experiences and hope that Sailwise will continue to win many more hearts with its inclusive and loving approach.

About Sailwise: Sailwise is an organization that makes water sports accessible to people with disabilities. Their mission is to give everyone the opportunity to enjoy water sports activities and share an unforgettable time on the water. By adapting boats and creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere, they have already won countless hearts and given people with disabilities the opportunity to shine on the water.

About Strukton Immersion Projects: At Strukton Immersion Projects, we believe in supporting worthwhile initiatives that have a positive impact on people and society. We are proud to support Sailwise and want to contribute to increasing happiness and enjoyment for everyone, regardless of their background or disability.

An important part of the Blankenburg connection is the Maasdeltatunnel, which forms the link between the north and south banks of the Blankenburg connection. The tunnel will be immersed in the river Scheur at a depth of about -30 metres NAP. The immersion of the two tunnel elements is one of the biggest challenges within the project.

Strukton Immersion Projects made the tunnel elements watertight by fitting the four end surfaces of the tunnel elements with bulkheads. The tunnel elements were built in a dry dock close to the construction site in Rozenburg. The tunnel elements have been christened Alara and Isabella. Tunnel element Alara is 205 metres long and tunnel element Isabella is 185 metres long. It is the first time in the Netherlands that tunnel elements of this size have been built and immersed, and that too at a depth of -30 metres NAP.

After fitting all mooring wires and winches, the tunnel elements were carefully checked against checklists. By the end of April 2022, the tunnel elements were ready for transport to the temporary mooring location, Damen Verolme’s 1st working port. On 2 May 2022, the signal was given to fill the construction dock with water during the Go/No-go consultation. On 2 and 3 May 2022, the tunnel elements were transported to the temporary mooring location with precision and craftsmanship.

The tunnel elements remain at the temporary mooring site awaiting immersion.

For an impression, see the video of the raising, unloading and mooring of the elements:

In November and December 2022, Strukton Immersion Projects installed the foundation tiles on behalf of BAAK. These foundation tiles are 7×7 metres and weigh more than 100,000 kilos. They form the temporary foundation for the tunnel elements of the Maas Delta tunnel.

Currently, the ramps on the banks of the Scheur are being completed to ensure that the first tunnel section can be immersed on 31 March.