Not just any boat ride around Amsterdam!

Join us for a fun, exciting and educational boat tour of Amsterdam on a boat with a lot of history!

On the 19^th of July at 15:30, the Cooperative Impact and Region West Committees in collaboration with Rederij Lampedusa would like to take you on a boat tour of Amsterdam, not just on any boat but on “Alhadj Djumaa” one of the boats abandoned by refugees on the Italian island of Lampedusa. Immigration is inextricably linked to Amsterdam and during the boat tour, they will share stories of immigrants from the past and present along with how the newcomers have shaped Amsterdam into the city it is for centuries, and still do to this day.

Rederij Lampedusa picked up two boats abandoned by refugees from the Italian island and brought them to Amsterdam in 2015. With the aim of establishing the most colorful, inclusive and sympathetic shipping company in the city – but perhaps in the whole of Europe. The company consists of a mixed group with roots in Syria, Somalia, Eritrea, Egypt, and the Netherlands who will sail and guide us with great pleasure through the metropolis and home port.

More about Alhadj Djumaa: It departed Egypt on the 25th of July 2013, headed for Lampedusa. It’s only 12m by 4m, but it carried a staggering 282 passengers – 217 Eritreans and 65 Ethiopians. As far as Rederij Lampedusa knows, they all made it safely across the ocean. The boat was seized the day after departure by the Italian authorities, who later gave it to Rederij Lampedusa. In between the oil barrels, life jackets and clothes left behind on board, they found a book of sheet music for guitar. One other line of text is written on the back of the vessel: road to freedom, way of peace.

Drinks and snacks will be served on the boat, you are also free to bring your drinks/snacks. We also request you to make a personal contribution of EUR7.50 (for the whole experience). This tour will last 90 minutes.