PA/OR5R DXpedition to Ameland Island EU-038

A team of Belgian radio amateurs will be active from the beautiful Dutch Wadden island of Ameland, EU-038, from 18 to 22 May 2026. The operation will take place under the callsign PA/OR5R from locator JO23TK, offering an excellent opportunity for DX hunters, island chasers, and Belgian and Dutch stations alike.

Belgian Team Heads to the Wadden Islands

The DXpedition will be carried out by an experienced group of operators from Belgium. All team members are associated with the Pajottenlandse Radio Amateur Club and are active within several radio clubs.

The operators are:

ON2LVC, ON4LO, ON5SEL, and ON7DE

With their combined knowledge, enthusiasm, and operating experience, PA/OR5R promises to be a well-organised and enjoyable activity from one of the most attractive island locations in the Netherlands.

Bands and Modes

The team plans to be active on a wide range of bands and modes, giving radio amateurs worldwide multiple chances to work Ameland Island.

Activity is expected on:

Bands: 160 metres through 6 metres
Modes: CW, SSB, and FT8

Operators may also be active using their personal callsigns within PAFF, BOTA, and LH references, so listeners are encouraged to keep an ear on the bands throughout the operation.

QSL Information

QSL cards will be sent by email to all stations in the log where an email address is available through QRZ.com.

About Ameland

Ameland is one of the inhabited Dutch Wadden Islands, located in the Wadden Sea in the north of the Netherlands. The island is approximately 27 kilometres long and around 4 kilometres wide, with a total area of about 59 square kilometres. Home to roughly 3,600 residents, Ameland is known for its peaceful atmosphere, wide beaches, and outstanding natural beauty.

The island forms part of the unique Wadden Sea area, a UNESCO World Heritage region. It offers more than 25 kilometres of beaches and over 100 kilometres of cycling paths. Its landscape includes dunes, forests, polders, and coastal areas rich in wildlife, including many bird species and seals.

Ameland, Hollum Beach Dunes

Ameland has four villages: Nes, Hollum, Buren, and Ballum. The well-known Bornrif lighthouse in Hollum is one of the island’s most recognisable landmarks. The island’s culture and identity are closely linked to fishing, seafaring, and maritime history.

Historically, Ameland enjoyed a long period of independence before officially becoming part of the Netherlands in 1816. This distinctive history is still reflected in the island’s traditions and heritage.

Today, Ameland welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, attracted by cycling, mudflat hiking, seal watching, sailing, kitesurfing, and the island’s relaxed coastal charm. Compared with some of the larger Wadden Islands, Ameland offers a quieter and more intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for visitors seeking nature, space, and tranquillity.

A Fine Combination of Radio and Nature

The PA/OR5R operation brings together an exciting amateur radio activity and a very special island location. For chasers of EU-038, PAFF, BOTA, lighthouse references, or simply those looking for an enjoyable contact from the Wadden Islands, this DXpedition will be well worth watching.

Listen out for PA/OR5R from Ameland Island, EU-038, between 18 and 22 May 2026.