Eco Boats Amsterdam

Amsterdam Canal Rules

Are you planning to go on the Amsterdam Canals? If so, be sure to read the Amsterdam canal rules before you go. The rules should always be followed. They are strictly controlled by the municipality of Amsterdam. The following rules are here to help you navigate the canals safely and avoid a fine.

Safety is paramount, never take any risks

Not sure if you can overtake or enter a certain canal in Amsterdam? Please take some time to look at the signs and the map we give you. You can also call us if you have any questions while cruising the canals.

How old do you have to be to cruise the canals of Amsterdam?

You have to be at least 18 years old to drive our boats.

What is the speed limit on the canals of Amsterdam?

The maximum speed limit on the Amsterdam canals is 6 km/h (3,7 mph). Our boats adhere to this limit.

Which side of the canal should you stay on while boating?

Make sure you always steer to starboard. This means that you keep to the right. This prevents collisions with other boats and makes boating safe for everyone. Also, approach bridges in such a way that you are visible to any oncoming traffic.

Keep the boat and the water clean

The use of confetti, fireworks, rice etc. is not allowed on board. It is also not allowed to throw waste overboard. You can dispose of the waste in the waste bin at the rental location. If the boat is not left free of waste, you will be charged an amount of at least € 50,- for cleaning.

Are you allowed to go everywhere on the canals in Amsterdam?

You can cruise almost everywhere in Amsterdam. Except on the IJ and the open harbour front (that is in front of the Central Station). Also, some canals are one-way traffic. So pay close attention to the signs.

Where are you allowed to moor the boat in Amsterdam?

Would you like to moor your boat while cruising the canals? This is allowed, but not everywhere. You are not allowed to moor to trees, under or to bridges and in places where this is indicated by means of a prohibition sign. Mooring to houseboats and other vessels is also not permitted.

Amsterdam boating signs

There are various signs for boats on the canals in Amsterdam. Please read these signs carefully when navigating the canals. This way, boating in Amsterdam remains safe and fun.

Boating in Amsterdam rules private boat

Do you have your own private boat and are you curious about the Amsterdam boating rules? Then please check the general boating rules of the municipality of Amsterdam. You can find here all the rules that apply on the canals.

Questions about cruising the canals in Amsterdam?

Do you have any questions about the Amsterdam cruising rules? Please contact us or take a look at our frequently asked questions. We are happy to help!

  • Mooring prohibited Mooring prohibited
  • Forbidden to take a berth Forbidden to take a berth
  • Pay attention Pay attention
  • Forbidden to pass Forbidden to pass
  • No entry No entry

Why do customers choose Eco Boats Amsterdam

Where can you find us?

Have a question?

We offer three options:
  1. Rent an electric boat that you may sail yourself, no boating license required.
  2. Rent a private canal boat with a captain and space for 30 people (The IJdok), including additional packages like catering and activities.
  3. Purchase a ticket for a canal cruise starting from Amsterdam Central, cruising through Amsterdam Center in 1 hour.

We are open every day, all year round.
  • Monday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Friday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 21:00

Certainly! You can hire a private large boat, including a captain and catering and/or activities. The IJdok boat accommodates 30 people, ensuring exclusivity for your group. Or you can rent multiple smaller boats that you can sail yourself. This means you are the captain. No boating licence needed! You can choose between different boats.  

In addition to the regular boat rental fee, we are obliged to charge tourist tax at €2.50 per person. This applies to all boat rentals in Amsterdam.

The rates vary per boat. We offer 4 different self-drive boats. You rent a boat for a minimum of 2 hours, and pay a low amount per hour for any additional time.

Certainly! You can hire a boat with us during various events, such as King's Day, Gay Pride, and the Amsterdam Light Festival. The rental usually starts 4 to 6 months in advance. So, make sure to book in advance to secure a boat.

Available boats

  • Small boats that you can sail yourself
  • Private canal boats with a captain and space for 30 people (The IJdok)
  • Tickets for the large canal cruise boats

Do you need to sail yourself or is there a captain?

Please note: on King's Day, you always rent a boat with a captain. You can rent both the small boats and the large private canal cruise boat with space for 30 people. On other holidays/events, you are allowed to sail yourself.

Food and drinks

Regarding food and drinks on King's Day and Gay Pride: On the small boats where you are the captain, you may bring your own food and drinks. On the large IJdok boats (30-person boats), it's only allowed to bring your own food. We will arrange the drinks for you.

When you rent a boat with us, you can go plastic fishing for free. We provide all the necessary equipment on board, including nets and garbage bags, allowing you to fish for plastic during your canal cruise. Not only is it a fun activity, but it's also environmentally friendly! Learn more about plastic fishing. This can be booked at no extra cost for both self-piloted boats and private canal cruises. It's important to notify us in advance. You can do this by including 'plastic fishing' in the comments when making a reservation.

This depends on the boat. This way, you can choose which boats fits your needs.

You can rent a self-drive boat from us at two locations. Where you pick up the boat, you must also return the boat.
  • Location Centre: Zandhoek 22 1013 KT Amsterdam. Check the directions to this location.
  • Location East: Daniël Goedkoopstraat 11096 BD Amsterdam. Check the directions to this location.
Read all frequently asked questions

Or contact us

Have not found what you are looking for? We are happy to assist you.

Opening hours

Mon till sun: 10:00 – 21:00

The benefits of Eco Boats Amsterdam

Option 1: Sail yourself without a license
Option 2: Buy a sightseeing tour ticket
Option 3: Private cruise with a captain
From 1 to 30 persons
Choose from various boats
Electric, whisper-quiet, and clean
Guaranteed a fun day
Perfect for group outings
Around Amsterdam city center
+31 (0) 6 216 171 11