History of the Morgenster
The History of the Tall Ship Morgenster: A Tale of Transformation
1919 – A Fishing Lugger is Born
Launched in June 1919 at the Boot shipyard in Alphen aan de Rijn, the vessel that would one day become the Morgenster was originally christened “De Vrouwe Maria” (Lady Mary). She was a pure sailing herring lugger, proudly carrying the fishery number SCH 200 and operating out of Scheveningen under the shipping company H. den Dulk. Designed to harness the wind in pursuit of the North Sea’s silver bounty, she was built for hard work, tough conditions, and a life at sea.
1928 – The Power of Progress
After nearly a decade of battling the waves under sail, the ship embraced modernity in 1928, when a 240 HP, 8-cylinder La Meuse engine was installed. While some old salts may have grumbled about the intrusion of machinery, the added horsepower made her faster and more efficient, ensuring a steady haul of herring. This upgrade was just the beginning of many transformations that would shape her future.
World War II – A Forced Detour
Like many ships of her time, she was commandeered by the German Wehrmacht during World War II, serving under the number HH10. Though no one can say she enjoyed her conscription, the war years were just a chapter in her long story. Once peace returned, she was lengthened by 7.11 meters in 1947, and in 1948, she swapped her old engine for a 4-cylinder Industry 240 HP engine, ensuring she remained competitive in post-war fishing fleets.
1959 – Morgenster is Born
In 1959, she was rebaptized “Morgenster” (Morning Star) and received a new fishing number, SCH 324. She continued her trade in the North Sea until 1970, when her fishing days came to an end. The vessel found new life as a sport angling boat, giving weekend warriors a taste of the seafaring life. It was during this period that she received an 8-cylinder Scania 380 HP engine, making her more powerful than ever before.
1979 – The Pirate That Never Was
In 1979, Morgenster’s story took a bizarre turn. Sold to a musician, she was later seized by the government on suspicion of being prepared for piracy (yes, actual high-seas piracy). After two years of legal battles, the musician was acquitted, but Morgenster remained in limbo—waiting for someone to bring her back to life.
1983 – A New Beginning
Enter Harry Muter, a man with a vision and a love for traditional ships. In 1983, he found the Morgenster in a sorry state and towed her to Zijkanaal B near Spaarndam. Docked alongside Jantje, a brigantine under construction, Morgenster began a slow but determined transformation. Over the years, repairs were made bit by bit, preparing her for her grand comeback.
2005 – Full Sail Ahead
In 2005, after Jantje was sold, Harry and Marian Muter put their full focus (and budget) into restoring Morgenster to her former glory. With the help of their loyal and towering assistant, Wouter, the real work began. By summer 2006, the hull was being refitted at Shipyard Balk on the island of Urk, where over 200 square meters of skin and frames were replaced, and a Norwegian rudder was installed.
2006-2008 – The Final Refit
By the end of 2006, Morgenster made her way to Den Helder’s Oude Rijkswerf, a historic naval dockyard that provided the perfect setting for her rigging and final restoration. With masts reaching for the sky and a spirit eager for adventure, she was officially commissioned in spring 2008, proudly calling Den Helder her new home port.
2008 – A Tall Ship with a New Mission
Since her grand rebirth, Morgenster has become a prominent figure in sail training and maritime events. She has raced in the Tall Ships Races, trained new recruits for the Dutch Royal Navy, and participated in EU youth exchanges through Windseeker. She has also joined forces with Sail Training Ireland and various maritime schools, ensuring that the next generation learns the art of sailing from the best.
A Star at Events and a Home at Sea
Morgenster is a regular at renowned maritime festivals such as Semaine du Golfe, Hanse Sail, Oostende at Anchor, and the legendary gatherings in Brest and Bordeaux. For many young visitors, stepping aboard is their first encounter with a tall ship—one that often inspires them to join future voyages when they turn 15.
Winter Escapes and Timeless Sailing
When the European winter turns gray and cold, Morgenster heads south, offering sun-seekers the chance to escape the winter blues. Whether exploring tropical waters or riding the trade winds, she continues to do what she does best. Sailing with purpose, passion, and a touch of old-world charm.
A Ship Built to Sail
With her strong herring lugger heritage, Morgenster is built for speed, stability, and seaworthiness. She sails beautifully upwind, her square rig balanced to handle anything from a light breeze to a roaring gale. She is not just a ship—she is a legend, and her story continues with every new voyage.
Are You Ready to Be Part of Her Next Chapter?
Whether you’re a guest looking for adventure, a trainee eager to learn, or a crew member ready to set sail, the Morgenster is waiting for you. Step aboard, raise the sails, and become part of her incredible journey. Adventure, history, and the open sea are calling—are you ready to answer?