a vision

As I journeyed across the world by boat, exploring countless harbors, a unique vision began to take shape in my mind…

…each port I visited, the table I was sitting at turned into a doctor’s desk. People from all walks of life sought my expertise, entrusting their health and well-being to my care. As I navigated their questions, my mission became twofold: to address their medical concerns and find innovative ways to augment the limited resources of the ship’s pharmacy in a foreign country.

With my stethoscope and prescription block in hand, I had embarked on a remarkable voyage—one that transcended borders, cultures, and oceans. As I set sail from one destination to the next, the legacy of the floating family doctor practice continued to flourish, giving rise to GP at Sea.

Welcome aboard!

Gp At Sea

For more than two decades, I ran my own family practice in The Netherlands, serving patients with dedication and compassion.

Now, the floating practice of GP @ Sea allows me to indulge in my passion for care and sailing, spending weekends on the water, and embarking on extended journeys during the winter months alongside my husband, an experienced boat expert.

Dr. Mirjam Schellekens (MD) & Eli van den Broek

The symbiotic relationship between my medical expertise and my husband’s nautical prowess is invaluable. Together, Eli and I create a harmonious blend of adventure and healing. As we dock at different ports, the nautical community learns that reliable medical advice extends beyond the confines of traditional healthcare settings.

I was fortunate enough to get to know Mirjam and her husband Eli through my partner years ago. They are an extremely experienced and wonderful couple, always ready to help and create ways to leave a positive impact on our world. Ever since I started long-distance sailing, the medical side has played an important role for me, first as a solo sailor and later as a captain and mother. I did as many trainings as I could and tried to navigate the names and uses of different medicines. But, I do not even get close to having the experience or education of a doctor.  Having Mirjam’s guidance and support as we depart and are on our long-distance voyages has given me an enormous amount of peace. Even being able to discuss small medical concerns can make me feel much more at ease and enables us to do what we are doing. She has been a constant source of medical advice to us over the past years and I would highly recommend Mirjam not only for her vast amount of experience and expertise but also for her positive, humane, and beautiful character.
Laura Dekker, Ambassador of GP @ Sea

Questions?

If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.