When Sander van Dijk, a creative engineer from Alkmaar, began dreaming about long summer cruises on the canals, he didn’t expect that dream to lead him back to his own family’s past. Along with his friends, he began searching for a traditional Dutch barge, something with history, character, and charm.
What they found wasn’t just a boat. It was a connection to Sander’s grandfather, a forgotten piece of local maritime heritage, and the start of a multi-year restoration that would ultimately marry a century-old hull with a fully modern electric drivetrain.
Meet Cornelis, a restored cabbage barge reborn as a silent, sustainable cruiser powered by a VETUS E-LINE electric propulsion system.
The heritage of Cornelis, a barge with roots
The story of Cornelis begins nearly a hundred years ago, in the vegetable fields of Overveen. Sander’s grandfather Bart was a greengrocer in Haarlem. He grew vegetables just outside of Haarlem and transported them, by barge to the produce auction at Donkere Spaarne. For Bart, the boat wasn’t a luxury; it was a working vessel, a part of daily life.
Years later, that memory stayed with Sander. Together with his friends, he searched for a similar boat, what they called a “cabbage barge”, to reignite that heritage and enjoy a slower, quieter style of boating.
After months on Marktplaats, they found what they were looking for: a flat-bottomed, riveted steel barge in Enkhuizen, weathered and worn but full of potential. They sailed her to Alkmaar, rechristened her Cornelis, and got to work.
Restoration, Reviving a Legend
The restoration began in 2016 and quickly became a full-scale rebuild. Decades of exposure had left the hull compromised and the Arona diesel engine rusted and barely operational.
“The diesel engine was beyond saving, it was loud, smelly, and difficult to maintain,” says Sander. “It just didn’t match the kind of experience we wanted on board. At first, I was worried about the range of electric systems available, but after some research, I realised those fears were unnecessary. In reality, I can cruise for several days without recharging.”
They reinforced the hull with new sheet metal, restored the riveted design where possible, and built a beautiful traditional wheelhouse. At first, they hoped to get the old diesel engine running again, but its smoke, noise, and unreliability quickly made the case for a cleaner alternative.
Click here to watch the video of the electrically propelled barge Cornelis.
Choosing Electric – Why VETUS E-LINE?
After experiencing the limitations of diesel, the team knew they wanted something quiet, efficient, and low-maintenance. Electric was the obvious answer, and VETUS became the ideal partner.
They selected the VETUS E-LINE Air 7 kW, a marine-specific, compact, air-cooled electric propulsion system designed for easy integration and intelligent control.
“What really drew me to VETUS was the brands professionalism,” explains Sander. “Many electric systems are built as DIY projects in someone’s garage. VETUS has been around for decades. You can see they’ve invested in engineering and testing. It gave me the confidence that their system would work, and that support and spare parts would be available in the years to come.”
With support from VETUS engineers, the system was precisely configured to match Cornelis’ size, cruising habits, and battery storage.
Building the Future, Installing the VETUS System
The team fabricated a new watertight steel foundation for the motor. Compact and whisper-quiet, the VETUS motor replaced the old diesel without needing bulky cooling or intake systems.
They even built a custom housing over the motor, styled to resemble a vintage Albin engine, to preserve Cornelis’ classic look while concealing her high-tech heart.
Sander added: “I chose the air-cooled version, which means there’s nothing to drain or winterize. No oil changes, no fuel smells, just plug in and go. It’s maintenance-free, which is a huge relief.”
Key Components:
The batteries and electronics were housed in a purpose-built steel box, vented, waterproof, and segmented to separate 12V, 48V, and 230V systems.
The Maiden Voyage – Electric and Effortless
On the 1st of March 2025, Cornelis returned to the water. The transformation was immediate.
“It was absolutely magical, we still talk about it. It’s so smooth, so quiet, you’re just gliding. The best part is, you can actually have a conversation now. In the past, the engine noise separated the captain from the rest of the group. Now everyone’s part of the moment.” said Sander.
Cruising at 6 km/h, the motor consumed just 728W, giving Cornelis a real-world range of 12+ hours on a single charge.
Lessons Learned, Real Numbers, Real Silence
After multiple test runs, the data confirmed what the team hoped:
“The system has been flawless,” says Sander. “At canal speeds, we get great range. For new users, the one thing to keep in mind is how speed affects consumption, it climbs fast above a certain threshold. The VETUS display is great for keeping track of that and helps build confidence quickly. After a few trips, you stop thinking about it.”
Reflections and Advice
For Sander, the journey was more than a technical project. It was about blending old and new, and reviving something with meaning.
“The restoration process was really special,” he says. “We used traditional techniques like riveting and forging cleats by hand, but we also used modern coatings and chose an electric drivetrain. Working on the boat with my dad and close friends made it even more rewarding.”
Today, Cornelis is a floating platform for connection.
“She’s a place to relax and spend time with family and friends. Every hour we put into the restoration was worth it.”
And what would he say to others considering converting an old boat?
“Do it. Yes, it’s an investment, but it transforms the experience. Just make sure you educate yourself and work with a trusted, experienced partner.”
Although Cornelis is Sander’s only boat, he’s already become something of an ambassador.
“I’ve had other boat owners stop me on the water, asking questions. People are curious, and I’m happy to share what I’ve learned, including through the blog.”
Conclusion: A Modern Classic Powered by VETUS
Cornelis is now not only a beautiful restored historic vessel, but also a model of sustainable, modern boating.
With VETUS at its heart, the project proves that even century-old boats can be future-proof, clean, and better than ever. The heritage is preserved, the maintenance is low, and the summer days on the canals are now filled with conversation, not clatter.
This is not just a conversion. It’s a transformation.
Thinking about electrifying your classic boat or sloop? Explore the VETUS E-DRIVES and discover how we can help elevate your boating experience.
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