Category: News
Hoornse Vaart swimming pool hides free tickets in Alkmaar for five daysSwimming pool Hoornse Vaart is closing out the summer holidays with a cheerful treasure hunt in the city centre of Alkmaar. From Monday 10th to Friday 14th August, a striking envelope will be hidden every day. Each envelope contains four complimentary tickets for the swimming pool. Via Facebook and Instagram, swimming pool Hoornse Vaart will share a vague photo and a clue every day. Whoever finds the envelope first gets to keep the complimentary tickets. The first clue will appear on Monday 10th August.
Five days, five envelopes
The envelope is easily recognisable. On the front, ‘Gefeliciteerd!’ is written in large letters and a photo of the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool can be seen. Each envelope contains four complimentary tickets. With these, the finder can come swimming together with three others.
“With this promotion, we want to bring the summer holidays to a close in a fun and surprising way,” says Marcel Ruitenberg, location manager of the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool. “We are curious to see how quickly the envelopes are found. Four complimentary tickets are waiting for the lucky finders to come and enjoy a swim together. Because a magnificent new swimming and sports complex is being built, this is the outdoor pool's final summer season in its current form. An extra special reason to fully enjoy the outdoor pool one last time over the coming weeks.”
A new clue every day
The envelopes will be hidden in the vicinity of well-known spots in the centre of Alkmaar. Think, for example, of the Grote Kerk, the Laat or the Huis met de Kogel. Where the envelope is located on that exact day remains a secret, of course.
Every day, swimming pool Hoornse Vaart shares a clue and a vague photo showing part of the surroundings via Instagram and Facebook. It is then up to the participants to recognise the location and be the first to find the envelope.
Joining the search operation
The first clue will appear on Monday 10th August. After that, a new envelope will be hidden every day up to and including Friday 14th August.
Anyone who wants to help search can follow Hoornse Vaart swimming pool via Instagram (@hoornse_vaart_alkmaar) and the Facebook page (Hoornse Vaart Sports Complex). More information about the swimming pool can be found at www.hoornsevaart.nl.
During the summer holidays, Outdoorpark Alkmaar is opening its doors every single day for individuals and families this year. While the park is normally only accessible to groups and pre-booked activities, anyone fancying an active day outdoors can visit daily this summer. From Saturday 4 July to Sunday 16 August inclusive, the park is freely accessible to everyone throughout the summer holidays. Afterwards, visitors can go for a swim at Hoornse Vaart swimming pool. Tickets are available in advance online via www.outdoorparkalkmaar.nl/recreatief-zwemmen.
A whole day of climbing, scrambling and playing
Visitors can use all the obstacles in the park between 10:00 and 16:00. The admission fee is 9.50 euros per person. One accompanying adult (aged 18 or older) is admitted free of charge per paying child. For just an extra 2 euros, you can round off the day with a refreshing swim in the adjacent Hoornse Vaart swimming pool.
Open every day this year
Following a successful first edition last year, Outdoorpark Alkmaar is opening its doors even wider this summer. Instead of a few fixed days, the park will be open every day throughout the entire summer holiday for ‘free play and climbing’. Children will have the freedom to explore the park independently and experience their own adventures.
“Last year we noticed how enthusiastic children and families were to discover the park for themselves,” says Tom Leering, coordinator at Outdoorpark Alkmaar. “That’s why this year we are opening our doors every single day during the summer holidays. No more set days to worry about, just drop by whenever it suits you and enjoy climbing, scrambling and playing.”
Combo ticket with Hoornse Vaart swimming pool
Outdoorpark Alkmaar is located right next to the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool. For just an extra 2 euros per person, visitors can also go swimming after climbing. Normally, a swimming ticket costs 6.10 euros, making this combination an attractive summer offer. In the summer months, Hoornse Vaart swimming pool offers plenty of swimming and play fun. Outside, there is a large pool with a slide, while inside there are multiple pools, an interactive slide, an obstacle course and entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online in advance via www.outdoorparkalkmaar.nl/recreatief-klimmen.
In September, a new training course for swimming instructors will start in Alkmaar and Bergen. The course is offered free of charge by Alkmaar Sport and Holland Sport and offers participants a guarantee of a part-time job upon successful completion.
As a swimming instructor, you do work that really matters. You teach children to swim, help them step by step towards greater confidence in the water and contribute to their safety. A specific prior education is not required. However, it is important that participants are proficient swimmers, have a practical mindset, an affinity with water and are able to connect well with children.
A job with both satisfaction and enjoyment
Teaching swimming is more than just teaching technique. Swimming instructors guide children who sometimes find what they have to do daunting, encourage them with every new step and celebrate the moments when something goes off together. It is precisely this that makes the work varied and rewarding.
“We are looking for people who enjoy working with children and like doing practical tasks,” says Marcel Ruitenberg, who as site manager is responsible for the swimming pools at Alkmaar Sport. “You don't need a background in education or sport. The most important thing is that you enjoy the water, are confident and can guide children in a positive way. Then we'll teach you the rest.”
For career changers, returners and part-timers
The training programme focuses primarily on people who consciously choose a meaningful part-time job. “We are looking for people who are ready for a new challenge, want to return to work after a break or are looking for supplementary work at the weekend, for example,” explains Marcel Ruitenberg. Upon successfully completing the training programme, participants can work at Alkmaar Sport or Holland Sport, at the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool, De Hout swimming pool, De Beeck swimming pool or Het Baafje swimming pool.
“Within Alkmaar Sport and Holland Sport, we provide swimming lessons to approximately 3,000 children every week and we are keen to continue doing this at a high standard. In addition, we are preparing for the new Hoornse Vaart Swimming and Sports Complex, which will also offer more space for swimming lessons. That is why we provide intensive guidance to trainees during their placement to become swimming instructors within our teams,” explains Marcel Ruitenberg.
More information
Marcel Ruitenberg concludes: “Get in touch with us and you can ask any questions you have. You are also always welcome to shadow us for a few hours to experience what the profession involves. Do you fancy it and do we hit it off with you? Then you might just become a new swimming instructor in our team.”
The training course starts on 7 September and consists of six Mondays of theory from 09:15 to 16:00, a work placement period at one of the swimming pools, a first aid course and a lifesaving module. More information can be found at www.alkmaarsport.nl/swimming instructor.
On Sunday 28 June, Open Water Alkmaar will take place at the Hoornsevaart. A tough and sporty event for anyone who loves swimming. Children can take part too. Swimming in open water is just a little different from swimming in a pool. That is why a special Kids' Open Water Clinic is being organised on Thursday 25 June.
During the clinic, children practice swimming in open water. There are no lines on the bottom there, the water is darker and sometimes colder than in the swimming pool. There can also be water weeds and little fish. That makes swimming outdoors fun and adventurous, but sometimes also a bit daunting. By practising beforehand, children will start with more confidence during Open Water Alkmaar.
What are we going to do?
During the clinic children learn what it is like to swim in open water. They practise sighting, continuing to swim calmly and dealing with situations that are different from those in the swimming pool. It is also discussed what you can do if you need help, for example with cramp or if you choke.
Where and when?
The clinic takes place on Thursday 25 June from 18:30 to 19:30. It might run a bit over. Swimming is taking place in the Geestmerambacht, in the pool near restaurant El Chiringuito on the north side of the lake. There may also be a short swim in the main lake. Participants will gather at the picnic table near the small playground.
Who for?
The clinic is intended for children taking part in Open Water Alkmaar and for those who are going to swim with them.
What are you bringing?
Bring swimwear, swimming goggles, a swimming cap, towel, flip-flops and a water bottle. Depending on the weather, a wetsuit or swim/surf thermal top is useful. Also remember warm, comfortable clothing for afterwards, possibly a bathrobe and something to eat for after swimming.
Guidance
The clinic is given by Esther de Vries. She has had her own swimming school, is a lifeguard and has been giving swimming lessons to children for years. In addition, she is an experienced open water swimmer, from out-and-back swims in the Geestmerambacht to crossing the IJsselmeer.
You can register for the clinic via esther@personalswimcoach.nl.
On Sunday 28 June 2026, Alkmaar Sport and swimming clubs OEZA and DAW are once again organising Open Water Alkmaar. Following a successful first edition, the open-water swimming event is returning to the Hoornsevaart. From 10:00, competitive swimmers will take action during the official KNZB distances. Later in the day, there will be space for recreational swimmers over distances of 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and, new this year, 3000 metres. Participants will swim in a unique setting past the windmills and the open landscape surrounding the Hoornsevaart. More information and tickets for the recreational distances are available via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa.
Successful first edition gets a follow-up
“Last year we saw how much enthusiasm there is for open-water swimming in Alkmaar,” says Max Delissen, swimming ambassador at Alkmaar Sport and one of the driving forces behind the initiative. “The combination of recreational swimmers, competitive swimmers, clubs, youth and spectators made for a fantastic day of sport in and around the water. We want to build further on that this year. Open Water Alkmaar is accessible to various levels and ages, as long as participants have at least their A and B swimming certificates.”
Recreational open water swimming
The recreational distances are intended for swimmers who want to take part in an open water swimming event in an accessible way. You can choose from 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 metres. This means there is a suitable distance for beginner open water swimmers, young participants and swimmers looking for a longer challenge alike.
The shorter distances of 250 and 500 metres are free of charge, which also makes the event attractive for young swimmers who want to try out open-water swimming. For the longer distances, there is a participation fee of €10. The recreational events start from 11:15. Registration is possible via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa. For competitive swimmers, official KNZB distances are on the programme. These start at 10:00 and registration for them is via https://webkalender.knzb.nl/.
Preparing with training sessions
Those who want to prepare well for Open Water Alkmaar can take part in various clinics beforehand. Clinics are provided for adults and youth, so that participants can appear at the start with more confidence. During the clinics, attention is paid to open water swimming, proper preparation and dealing with conditions that are different from those in the swimming pool.
“Open-water swimming has something special,” continues Max. “You swim outside, in a natural environment and together with other participants. For some swimmers that feels familiar, for others it is completely new. With the clinics, we want to help participants take part well-prepared and with enjoyment.”
The largest open water swimming event in the Netherlands
Alongside the swimming events, there will also be room on the day itself for additional sporting activities, including beach water polo. This makes Open Water Alkmaar not only an event for participants, but also for visitors who want to experience the atmosphere at the Hoornsevaart.
Max: “We hope to welcome many swimmers again. Last year was a great start, and this year we want to build on that together. It is precisely the mix of youth, recreational swimmers and competitive swimmers that makes this day special. Everyone who wants to take part can find all the practical information via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa.”
On Wednesday 20 May, Alkmaar Sport and the Municipality of Alkmaar opened the exhibition space for the new Hoornse Vaart swimming and sports complex. The space was festively opened in the presence of many loyal Sport Discount Pass holders. From now on, the space is accessible to anyone who is curious about what the future complex will look like. The exhibition space can be visited during the opening hours of the swimming pool.
Opened by Mayla
A special moment during the opening was the role of four-year-old Mayla, daughter of location manager Marcel Ruitenberg and herself a great enthusiast of swimming. By cutting a red ribbon, she gave the signal for the official opening of the space. Together with her father, Mayla visited various swimming pools in the Netherlands over the past few years. In doing so, they gathered plenty of inspiration for the Hoornse Vaart swimming and sports complex.
First impression of the new complex
In the exhibition space, visitors and interested parties are given a glimpse into the plans for the future of the Hoornse Vaart swimming and sports complex. Among other things, mood images, impressions, floor plans and background information on the development of the new complex are on display. During the opening, Eddy Bakker, operations manager at Alkmaar Sport, provided an explanation of the plans. Patrick Langedijk, project manager on behalf of the municipality of Alkmaar, also answered questions from those present.
Proud of future-proof complex
“It is wonderful to see that the new Hoornse Vaart swimming and sports complex is getting closer and closer,” says Christiaan Peetoom, Alderman for Sports. “In this exhibition space, residents can already get a good idea of what we are going to realise here. As an alderman, I am proud that we are able to build such a fine and future-proof complex in Alkmaar. We are working step by step towards a wonderful place where everyone can exercise, play sports and meet one another.”
Building the future
“It is wonderful to see how much enthusiasm there is surrounding the Hoornse Vaart swimming and sports complex,” says Eddy Bakker. “During construction, we will regularly highlight various themes in the space, such as sustainability, materials used, flora and fauna, and potential temporary disruption. In this way, we will keep visitors involved in everything that is going to happen over the coming years.” Bakker emphasises that the Hoornse Vaart swimming and sports complex will remain open as usual during construction. “We think that is important. We are building the largest and most enjoyable swimming pool in North Holland, whilst continuing to do what Hoornse Vaart has excelled at for years: generous opening hours, remaining accessible, and keeping swimming and sports affordable for our visitors.”
More information about this project can be found via www.alkmaar.nl/projecten-en-nieuwbouw/hoornse-vaart
Are you taking part on Sunday 28 June in Open Water Alkmaar, a triathlon or another open water race? Then Swim Performance's open water clinics are the perfect preparation. During these clinics you will work on technique, confidence and racing skills that you need to be at the start strong and relaxed.
Open Water Clinics for Triathletes and Open Water Swimmers
Under the guidance of Swim Performance, you will learn, among other things, how to navigate efficiently, swim in a wetsuit, round buoys smoothly, and keep your calm in crowded race situations. This means you will not only enter the water better prepared, but you will also swim smarter and with greater confidence.
Ready to get off to a stronger start?
The clinics are suitable for both beginner and experienced open-water swimmers. Whether you are taking part in Open Water Alkmaar for the first time or want to improve your performance, these training sessions will help you get the most out of your preparation.
The open water clinics take place on Sunday 24 May at 15:00, Wednesday 27 May at 19:00, Wednesday 3 June at 19:00 and Saturday 6 June at 09:30. Participants gather 15 minutes in advance at El Chiringuito in the Geestmerambacht.
You can register via www.swimperformance.nl. Please also download the Swim Performance app in advance.
From Saturday 25 April up to and including Sunday 10 May is the May holiday, which means plenty of swimming fun at the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool in Alkmaar. Extra special this year is the opening of the outdoor pool on Saturday 25 April. From that day onwards, the outdoor pool is open daily for everyone who wants to swim, play or relax in the fresh air. In addition, there is once again plenty to do in the swimming pool during the May holiday, with extra generous opening hours for recreational swimming, a varied aquafitness programme, free entertainment and an obstacle course in the 50-metre pool every afternoon. The full programme can be found at www.hoornsevaart.nl/vakantie.
Daily open-air swimming pool
With the opening of the outdoor pool, the outdoor season at Hoornse Vaart swimming pool is getting off to a festive start. From Saturday 25 April, visitors can come every day for a refreshing dip, an afternoon of water fun or a few lengths in the open air. Zoom down the fast blue slide on an inflatable ring or find a nice spot in the sun on the large green sunbathing lawn with sun loungers. This makes the May holiday the perfect time to enjoy the outdoor pool once again.
Mega Shark Run in the 50-metre pool
There is also plenty to do inside the swimming pool. Every afternoon, the Mega Shark Run is set up in the 50-metre pool. This obstacle course provides plenty of action and fun for children who love climbing, scrambling and sliding. In addition, there is daily free entertainment with fun games in the water. You can take part in the afternoon and there are great prizes to be won.
Extra swimming lessons and crash course
On various days during the May holiday, children can take part in extra swimming lessons and an intensive course for diploma B and C. On these days, lessons will be offered for various levels. Everyone – also children who do not take swimming lessons at Alkmaar Sport – is very welcome to take part in the extra swimming lessons and the intensive course. More information about the swimming lessons can be found via www.hoornsevaart.nl/vakantie.
On Monday 6 April (Easter Monday), Outdoorpark Alkmaar is kicking off the outdoor season with an open day for children and families. From 10:00 to 13:00, children can climb, scramble, run and play to their heart's content on the obstacles in the park for €7.50. During the open day, visitors will get a good impression of what Outdoorpark Alkmaar has to offer throughout the season. Anyone who still has energy to spare afterwards can go swimming for an extra €2 from 13:00 to 16:00 at the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool, where there will also be extra entertainment. More information and tickets are available via www.outdoorparkalkmaar.nl/opendag.
Much more than a day out
During the open day, playful movement is central. Children can get acquainted with the park in an accessible way and let off steam on the various obstacles. Parents can watch from the sidelines or join in themselves. This makes the open day intended for families, groups of friends and other visitors who want to take an active look at Outdoorpark Alkmaar.
Getting acquainted with the park
According to coordinator Tom Leering, the open day is a great opportunity to show everything that is possible in the park. “This open day is a good moment to introduce visitors to Outdoorpark Alkmaar. Not only as an active outing for children and families, but also for children's parties, school groups, corporate outings, stag and hen do's, and team activities. In this way, we show how broad the range of activities is and kick off the new season together.”
Fabulous finale
Visitors can also take part in a competition during the open day. Anyone who shares a fun or spectacular photo of their visit on social media and tags Outdoorpark Alkmaar stands a chance to win a one-and-a-half-hour obstacle run clinic for eight people. Through the partnership with Hoornse Vaart swimming pool, the open day will have an extra sporting finale. After a morning full of action in the park, children and their parents can continue their afternoon at the swimming pool. Thus, Monday 6 April will be all about exercise, fun and being active together. Tickets are available via www.outdoorparkalkmaar.nl/opendag.
Are you curious about what it is like to swim in a wetsuit? Or do you already have a suit, but find that swimming suddenly feels completely different? Then this clinic is for you. In collaboration with openwaterswimming.club & shop.nl, we are organising a swimming clinic with wetsuits and a fitting session in lane 8 of the 50-metre pool at the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool on Sunday 29 March from 10:00 to 12:00.
During the clinic you will learn more about swimming in a wetsuit. Think about technique, putting on the suit and taking it off quickly again. Do you not have a wetsuit of your own yet? No problem. There are also various test models available for both breaststroke and front crawl. That way you can experience for yourself what a wetsuit does in the water.
In addition, there is a fitting session. This is useful if you are in doubt about your current wetsuit or are looking for your first suit. You can try on different models and get advice on the correct size and fit.
Why swim in a wetsuit?
A wetsuit can have many benefits. It provides extra buoyancy, helps to keep your body in a better position and can bring more peace of mind and confidence in the water. It also keeps you warmer, allowing you to swim in open water earlier and for longer.
However, it is important to know that swimming in a wetsuit feels different from regular swimming. Your shoulders may tire more quickly and it takes some getting used to. Precisely for this reason, this clinic is a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with it or to improve your technique.
Practical information
The clinic takes place in lane 8 of the 50-metre swimming pool at the Hoornse Vaart swimming pool. For Sports Discount Subscription Holders is participation Free. If you do not have a Sports Advantage Subscription, you need to buy an admission ticket for the swimming pool. In order to organise everything properly and have the right sizes of wetsuits ready, it is advance registration required. You can register at Marcel Stroet via openwaterwebwinkel@gmail.com. Please state in your application:
- Name
- Height in cm
- Weight in kg
- And whether you hold a Sports Benefit Subscription
If you have any questions about wetsuits, open water swimming or the right fit, you can also ask them during this clinic.
