The classic Dutch barge for boats is the first Makma product. This 7-metre long boat has a generous width of 2.65 m. These exceptional dimensions are one of the reasons why this boat was being rowed around the Zuiderzee as far back as 100 years ago. Equally exceptional stability also contributes to the comfort of this boat. Just as in the Pêcheur and the Admiraal sailboat sloop, there is more than enough room for four people to sit behind the wheel.
The Dutch barge is the ideal family boat: it is safe for small children because “the self-draining cockpit” is nice and deep. Water, including rainwater, drains off automatically, so you don’t need a pump for boat. The boat fits around 8 to 10 people. The inspection certificate specifies that eight adults can stand on one side without a drop of water getting into the boat! This just shows how stable this boat really is.
The seats for boats, which slope backward like a sofa, increase the seating comfort in this model. The U-shaped sofa in the front of the boat is around 10 centimetres lower than usual so that tall people can also sit up straight of they wish. On all sides, the spacious seats give good back support. The motor in the Dutch barge is located in a special compartment so that the noise level is kept to the absolute minimum.
Thanks to the unbroken keel under the boat, this Makma type also keeps on course and, in combination with a small draught, it means you can sail the boat almost everywhere. The Dutch barge also has large storage space fore and aft under the deck and also in the seats. So there is enough space for a cool-box or folding bicycle.