By now, you’ve probably heard that Amsterdam is a city characterised by many canals. Thus a canal cruise is an absolute must-do when you visit Amsterdam. But how cool would it be to rent a boat in Amsterdam and sail over the Amsterdam canals yourself? Guess what, you can! The advantages of a private rental boat are obvious: it’s just you and your group, going your own way, as long as you want, taking breaks whenever you want. However, if you want to hire a boat, remember that you’re not the only one, especially if the weather is good; the companies where you can hire a boat sell out fast. Make sure that you make a reservation upfront to avoid disappointment. The rental boats have a capacity of 6 – 12 passengers, depending on the rental location, so inform yourself well! If you’re looking for a private canal cruise option with more than 12 passengers, consider booking a private cruise on a boat with a captain. On this page;
Rent a boat in Amsterdam
Boat rental locations in Amsterdam
Rent a small electric boat to sail yourself
In Amsterdam, multiple companies rent out small sloops with electric propulsion. The boats are easy to sail, and you don’t need a license to rent them. The electric propulsion is zero-emission and provides a relaxed and silent ride. Before departure, you will receive personal instructions about handling the items, basic rules, and possible routes. Depending on the rental company and location, you can between six to twelve people on the boat and bring your food and drinks. The designated driver, however, is responsible and not allowed to drink.
Recommended boat rental companies
Eco Boats Amsterdam
Boat rental company with 2 locations, where you can rent boats that carry up to 12 passengers at the Zandhoek location, or up to 10 passengers at the Daniël Goedkoopstraat.
Daniël Goedkoopstraat 1, Amsterdam
Zandhoek 22, Amsterdam
Canal Motorboats
Boat rental company with 4 locations, with boats that carry up to 8 passengers.
Polonceaukade 20, Amsterdam
Westerdoksdijk 705, Amsterdam
Zandhoek 22, Amsterdam
Nassaukade 341, Amsterdam
We think that renting a boat is a great alternative for the canal cruises in the classical canal boats, if the weather allows it. It gives you the freedom to go wherever you like, for as long as you like. Besides it’s also fairly cheap compared to a normal canal cruise, that cost around €16,- per person for an hour. If you decide to bring food yourself you can also save out on a meal in a restaurant, and have a cosy picnic on the water.
When you rent a boat in Amsterdam please keep in mind the following things:
- Bring a plastic bag for the rubbish if you bring food and drinks. Please don’t litter the canals you just enjoyed.
- The waterways are super busy. Please keep right and allow big boats to pass.
- In contrary to your small boat, bigger boats are not as manoeuvrable. Please give them the right of way and wait for them to pass.
- Although tempting playing music on a boat is not allowed in the centre. Don’t play music if you don’t want to be fined.
- Please be respectful of the environment. Keep in mind that people are living on the houseboats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sail the boat myself?
Absolutely! After some brief instructions, you’re ready to set sail on your vessel! You can pick your own route and plan your own stops as long as you respect the regulations on the canals! Alcohol on the boats is allowed for passengers, but the captain must be responsible and remain sober.
Do I need a license to rent a (electric) boat in Amsterdam?
No, you do not need a license to rent a boat in Amsterdam. However, the driver/captain must be over 18 years of age.
How much does it cost to rent a boat?
Depending on the rental company and boat, it will cost you somewhere between €33,- and €60 per boat per hour, with a minimum rental period of 3 hours.
Do I need to have experience sailing to operate the rental boats?
No, the electric rental boats are fairly easy to sail. With a few minutes of practice and a fair dose of caution, anyone older than 18 can operate the boats.
Is it allowed to play music on the boat?
No, it is not allowed to play (electronically amplified) music on open boats on the Amsterdam canals. This rule is being enforced, and violators can be fined €140,—.
Is it possible to rent a boat during events like Kingsday or Gay Pride?
Yes, but only if you reserve early. Demand goes through the roof during these events, so you must reserve in time. Also, special tariffs may apply.
How many passengers can you take on the rental boats?
That depends on the rental location. Eco Boats Zandhoek has the largest rental boats with a capacity of up to 12 passengers. However, some boat rental locations have boats with a maximum of 6 passengers. Therefore, make sure to investigate which rental location suits your needs!
Where can I find a boat rental location close to me?
Please check out the map above, where we’ve listed boat rental locations and the maximum number of passengers per location.
Is it possible to rent a boat for groups larger than 12 people?
Yes, that is possible. However, you will not be able to sail the boat yourself. Boats that carry over 12 passengers must be operated by a professional captain. Check out our extensive list of private canal cruises for large groups.
Is it true that one can spot wild animals such as giraffes and elephants during a cruise?
In fact, yes. If you rent a small boat, you can choose a specific route along the Amsterdam Zoo called Artis. From the canal, you can spot several of the animals in the zoo among which the elephants and giraffes!
Rent a pedal boat
Looking for some playful fun out on the Amsterdam canals? Don’t miss out on the canal bike rentals! Become the captain of your very own pedal boat and cycle your way through the water. The canal bikes are a cool way to cruise the canals of Amsterdam. This is also a fun thing to do with kids in Amsterdam. Remember that you won’t see as much of the city as with any boat, as keeping the bike moving on the water takes a lot of energy. The canal bikes will offer you a good workout, though, and a great time especially when it is sunny outside. There are multiple rental points throughout the city, which are part of Stromma Canal Tours.
Rent a big boat with a skipper
If you have something to celebrate, you might want to rent a boat that carries more than 6 people. In this situation, you will need to rent a big sloop. This type of boat can carry up to 90 people, but it differs from boat to boat. These boats are always rented out with a certified skipper. You’re not allowed to sail this type of boat yourself. However, this allows you the chance to sit back and relax while you enjoy the ride. Please have a look at our selection of private boat tours and find one that suits your needs!
