Discover the Vliegende Hollander
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De Vliegende Hollander
De Vliegende Hollander is Efteling's unique water coaster where you literally dive into the water! After a year's delay, De Vliegende Hollander first opened its doors on 1 April 2007 and was an instant smash hit. To this day it remains one of Efteling's most popular attractions. Don't miss this unforgettable experience! De Vliegende Hollander is located in Ruigrijk.
The story
Captain Willem van der Decken fearlessly braves the wild seas, even in foul weather, driven by his boundless greed and his quest for riches. His greed leads him to set sail on Easter Sunday, despite a ban… Everyone on board is doomed to roam the seas forever on the ghost ship De Vliegende Hollander.
Have you noticed how many lions are depicted in and around the attraction? They serve as a symbol of Willem van der Decken. The lions look ever more intense and angry as Willem van der Decken's greed grows.
The entrance
A long queue at De Vliegende Hollander? No worries, there's plenty to see! From the square of the little harbour town, you step into the house of Captain Willem van der Decken. Inside you'll find all sorts of undiscovered rooms… Dare you go any further?
The queue
Come inside the Vliegende Hollander building. As you enter, you'll discover the family's impressive library, full of books about seafaring. Don't forget to glance in the mirror, where Van der Decken appears every now and then. Venture through the painting of the VOC ship and discover the hidden tunnel. Treasure lies hidden here! It turns out Van der Decken is a smuggler… watch out! The smoke and red light point to a fire.
Once you've walked through the café, you head down one of the staircases. Before you set off, you watch the gripping story of Van der Decken on a screen. That way you're fully prepared for the voyage ahead. The tension rises and your adventure awaits!
Board the Vliegende Hollander
After exploring the captain's home, you arrive at the harbour, where your ship is ready and waiting. There are beautiful details to admire here too! Spot the outside of the café you've just been through, along with many other harbour houses. Climb aboard and explore the dark open sea before you take a plunge outside. Once outside, don't forget to enjoy the wonderful view of Joris en de Draak.
Stay the night in De Vliegende Hollander Suite
A fan of the Vliegende Hollander? Then a night in De Vliegende Hollander Suite at the Efteling Hotel is highly recommended! Extend your visit to Efteling and enjoy the Vliegende Hollander coaster even outside opening hours.
Practical information:
To ride De Vliegende Hollander you must be at least 1.20 m tall and able to take your seat in the boat unaided. Unfortunately, the attraction is not suitable for pregnant women or for people with physical injuries or medical conditions. There is a queue for people with disabilities at the attraction's entrance. Show your access card to a staff member and they'll give you access to this queue. Please note that this attraction is unfortunately closed in freezing weather. Bon voyage!
More practical tips:
Must-see views from the Pagode!
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