Due to its 4400km of navigable waterways, and the fact that around 1 in 32 Dutch people own their own boat, boating holidays in Holland are a very popular option among those looking to try something different during their break. Here, we share some advice for organising your own canal boat holiday in this fascinating country when you take a ferry to Holland.
Why are boating holidays in Holland so popular?
Seeing Holland from its waterways is a truly wonderful experience, which is why so many people choose to explore by boat. A canal boat holiday offers the chance to sail past windmills, tulip fields, and pretty marinas while exploring some of the Netherlands’ best towns and cities along the way. Many of Holland’s residents own their own boats, which is a testament to how easy it is to get around via the country’s waterways.
During your boating holiday, you’ll discover plenty of lovely canal-side bars and cafés where you can stop and enjoy your surroundings. This offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself into Dutch life, and meet people who might be able to give you tips on where to head to next! You’ll also find it easy to moor your boat close to cities that you might like to see, so you can hop on and off at different points along your chosen route.
Speaking of routes, there are lots to choose from, and it’s possible to do a return journey to somewhere without passing the same spot twice. Some routes will offer the chance to see stunning scenery, whereas others will take you past cultural points of interest. Of course, you can do a bit of both if you like – the beauty of boating holidays in Holland is that you can tailor them to suit your interests.
Canal boat holidays in Amsterdam
As the country’s capital, Amsterdam is very popular with those visiting via boat, bike, car, or train! There are a number of rules that you will need to abide by when taking your boat along Amsterdam’s canals, including not being able to travel at over 6kmph, and not carrying more than 12 passengers. It is also vital that you know the height of your boat as some bridges are less than 2m from the water.
Travelling along Amsterdam’s waterways by boat is an exciting experience as the canal ring is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This does mean that no two-stroke outboard motors from before 2007 are able to sail here due to their pollution levels, but if you boat is newer than this there won’t be a problem. From the water, you’ll be able to see many of the city’s top landmarks, and can marvel at the impressive architecture that lines the canals.
You can moor your boat anywhere that isn’t marked as being restricted, which means that as long as you’re not trying to stop under bridges or in very narrow parts of the canal network you should be able to find a spot to park up and enjoy your surroundings.
Canal boat hire and tours
If you just want to sail around the Netherlands for part of your holiday, you might prefer to hire a canal boat for anything from a few hours to a day, or simply book onto a boat tour. There are lots of different options available, so you’re sure to find one that suits you.
Many of Holland’s main cities, such as Utrecht and Rotterdam, boast boat tours which will show you the sights and provide commentary along the way. Those visiting Amsterdam can enjoy boat tours that include everything from romantic meals and night sailings to cheese and wine pairing trips and cocktail cruises, plus you’ll find options that take you out of the city and onwards to different areas, including beautiful Giethoorn, too. Alternatively, hire a canal boat and explore by yourself. We suggest packing up a delicious Dutch picnic to take with you which you can enjoy in a picturesque spot along one of the canals.
Ready to discover boating holidays in Holland for yourself? Book your ferry crossing today and prepare to set sail!
