The Netherlands is a dream destination for canal boating enthusiasts, with its extensive network of canals, rivers and lakes offering endless opportunities for exploration. As you cruise through the picturesque Dutch countryside, you’ll see historic windmills, colourful tulip fields and charming villages that look like they’ve been painted. Along the way, you’ll stop in traditional Dutch towns to sample local cheeses, visit old harbours or cycle along the dike paths. The country’s flat terrain makes it ideal for combining boating and cycling – a true Dutch travel experience.
Thanks to the well-maintained waterways and plenty of mooring options, even novice boaters can enjoy their journey in peace and safety. Whether you’re sailing on the IJssel or gliding along smaller canals, each route reveals a new side of the Netherlands. A canal boat holiday here is a relaxed yet meaningful way to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Canal boat rental in the Netherlands – The main regions
Friesland
Friesland is one of the most popular boating regions in the Netherlands, known for its vast lakes, canals and charming waterside villages. The region is home to the famous “Eleven Cities Tour” and offers ideal conditions for both novice and experienced boaters. Its vast waterways, historic towns and peaceful rural surroundings make for the perfect getaway. Friesland is unique for its strong local culture and Frisian language, allowing visitors to experience another Dutch identity.
North Holland
North Holland is a diverse boating region that includes the canals of Amsterdam, historic towns such as Hoorn and Enkhuizen, and access to the IJsselmeer lake. A cruise is a great way to experience a mix of urban energy and quiet, picturesque waterfront life. The region is well known for its tulip fields, windmills and traditional Dutch architecture. It is a unique blend of culture, history and natural beauty.
South Holland
South Holland offers boaters a beautiful mix of countryside, historic towns and coastal access. Cruises through areas such as Gouda, Leiden and Delft reveal a rich history and classic Dutch charm. The region also has beautiful green polders and quiet canals, ideal for leisurely sailing. With so many cultural attractions nearby, it is a great region to combine sightseeing with a leisurely cruise.
Giethoorn and Overijssel
Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North”, is located in the province of Overijssel and is famous for its canals, footbridges and peaceful, car-free atmosphere. A boat trip here is like stepping into a fairy tale, with thatched-roof cottages and a tranquil natural setting. The nearby Weerribben-Wieden National Park, with its rich wildlife and protected waterways, makes it a truly unique destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Zeeland
Zeeland is a coastal province known for its wide estuaries, inlets and sandy islands, making it ideal for sailors and sea cruisers. The Delta Works, a world-famous flood control system, is also located here and adds a fascinating engineering landmark to any itinerary. Boaters love the fresh sea air, beautiful beaches and local cuisine rich in seafood. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, nature and Dutch maritime culture. rent a boat on the Holland’s coasts
What to do on a Holland boating holiday?
Explore picturesque Dutch towns
A cruise in the Netherlands will take you to charming towns such as Giethoorn, Enkhuizen or Haarlem. These towns are lined with canals, historic buildings and cafes. You can easily dock to explore local markets, museums or just enjoy the relaxed small-town atmosphere. Each town offers a different side of Dutch culture. Larger cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht or Leiden are easily accessible by water and offer a wealth of cultural, historical and local experiences.
Visit windmills and tulip fields
Iconic elements of the Dutch landscape are the traditional windmills and spring tulip fields, which can be admired up close by boat in the areas of Kinderdijk or Lisse. Many windmills are open to visitors, so you can learn about their workings and history from the inside.
Explore Amsterdam by water
The best way to experience Amsterdam’s canal system is by boat. With a charter boat, you can pass by historic houses, bridges and houseboats, while seeing the city from a very special perspective. You can easily dock near landmarks such as the Anne Frank House or the Rijksmuseum. The city also has a vibrant nightlife and great restaurants.
Combine sailing and cycling
The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture, and many boaters bring their bikes (which can be rented for most of our boats) along the way. You can dock and then explore the dike roads, small villages and countryside on two wheels. This active recreation allows you to see more places while being in nature. The routes are well marked and easy to follow.
Enjoy the lakes and nature reserves
In addition to the canals, there are also large bodies of water, such as the IJsselmeer or the Frisian Lakes. These places are ideal for swimming, fishing or even rowing. Bird watching and peaceful relaxation are also possible in the surrounding nature reserves. A real treat for nature lovers.
If you trust a specialist to find the ideal boat for you, or if you can’t find a suitable yacht, find us on one of our contact details, or fill out the form below. After submitting your request, we will contact you within 24 hours to answer your questions and provide solutions to your carefree journey. We will help you to find the best solution.