With skipper

Rent a boat with skipper in Amsterdam

Relax while an experienced skipper navigates - you enjoy the view.

  • From €425
  • Up to 35 people
  • With skipper
  • Sail today? Call +31 20 261 7061 - often same-day slots on the canals
  • Self-drive without a licence You set route and pace
  • From €69 (morning) Transparent fixed rates
  • Electric sloops Quiet sailing, zero emissions
  • Up to 6 people Ideal for friends and family
  • 4.5+ stars Nearly 1,000 positive reviews

Rent a boat with skipper in Amsterdam

Rent a boat with skipper

A day of canal boating is always a good idea. Renting a boat with a skipper in Amsterdam lets you enjoy the city carefree. The skipper knows every bridge and canal and ensures a relaxed cruise. So you don’t have to steer or worry about the route. All you have to do is sit back, drink in hand, and enjoy the view. From the Prinsengracht to the IJ River: experience Amsterdam at its finest..

Why choose a boat with a skipper?

The biggest advantage of a skipper is convenience. You don’t need a boating license, there’s no steering hassle, and you’ll reach places you might never have found on your own. The skipper tailors the trip to your preferences: a relaxing afternoon with friends, a celebratory get-together, or a leisurely cruise past historic buildings. Anything is possible. Plus, you can be sure the boat will sail safely and smoothly, which is especially beneficial for larger groups or if you have no boating experience.

hat can you expect during the cruise?

You’ll normally board at Stationsplein 28, right next to Central Station. Prefer to start somewhere else? We can arrange this for an additional fee, both inside and outside the city center. Simply specify your preferred location when booking. Before departure, discuss your preferred route with the skipper, perhaps along the canals or towards the Jordaan district. This way, you can be sure the tour is perfectly tailored to your needs.

Rent a boat with skipper

Prices and packages overview

Renting a boat with a skipper in Amsterdam starts at €425. The exact price depends on the boat, the duration, and any catering options. This allows you to customize your experience to your liking. A classic tugboat is often ideal for smaller groups, while a sloop is more suitable for larger gatherings. Thanks to the clear pricing structure, you know exactly what to expect upfront. No hidden costs or surprises: just worry-free sailing with an experienced skipper. Rent a boat with skipper

Different boat types explained

At Boaty, you can choose between a luxurious open sloop or a classic tugboat. The sloop is ideal on sunny days: spacious, airy, and perfect for drinks or parties with a group of up to 35 people. The tugboat is an authentic ship with plenty of charm and a covered superstructure. Convenient for changeable weather and a cozy atmosphere for a more intimate trip. Both boats are fully electric, allowing you to navigate the canals quietly and eco-friendly. This way, you’ll hear the city instead of the engine. Rent a boat with skipper

Boat comparison table

Feature Luxury open sloop Classic tugboat
Capacity Up to 35 people Up to 35 people
Appearance Modern & spacious Authentic & atmospheric
Protection Open deck, with cover in sun and rain Partly covered, with a canopy in case of sun and rain
Toilet on board No Yes
Comfort Lots of seating space, airy Intimate and cozy
Suitable for Drinks, party, day trip Quiet sailing
Sustainability Electric, quiet and green Electrically silent and green

Practical tips for your boat trip

Always bring a sweater or jacket, even on sunny days. It can be a bit chillier on the water than on the dock. In summer, sunscreen is essential, and sunglasses make the trip more comfortable. Going in the evening? Consider a sweater or scarf, as it cools down quickly once the sun goes down. Regarding shoes, wear something comfortable and sturdy; heels or smooth soles are less practical on board. A small bag is also ideal for storing valuables safely and dry.

When is the best time to sail?

Many locals choose the early afternoon or evening. During the day, you’ll see the city bustling with terraces along the canals and lively squares. In the evening, Amsterdam becomes magical: the bridges and canal houses are beautifully illuminated, and the atmosphere is more tranquil. Weekends can be busier on the water, while a weekday cruise is often more relaxed. In short: every moment has its charm, but think beforehand about what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for.

Seasonal tips

Cruising through Amsterdam is special in any season. In spring, the parks along the canals are a vibrant green, and the water is often still calm, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Summer brings long days and warm evenings, perfect for drinks or a party on the deck with friends. In autumn, the city transforms into a picturesque scene, where you can admire the colorful trees along the quays from a comfortable tugboat. And in winter, a cruise is intimate and romantic: the canals are quieter, sometimes shrouded in mist, making the experience even more atmospheric and unique.

Book your cruise

Ready to explore Amsterdam in a relaxed way? Book your Amsterdam boat rental with skipper today. This way, you’re guaranteed a spot on your preferred date. Rent a boat with skipper

Frequently asked questions

The tour continues. We have custom-made canopies for our boats.

Yes, cancellations are flexible. Contact us for the terms and conditions.

The classic tugboat has a toilet. The sloops don’t, but a stop is possible.

Yes, that’s allowed. You can also opt for catering.

The tugboat is more accessible. Please inform us in advance.

Absolutely! You can also rent a sloop from us without a skipper for up to 6 people.

From €425 for 2 hours of sailing.

8. How far in advance should I book?

As early as possible, especially in high season.

Boat rental location Amsterdam - De Pijp

Our rental dock is in De Pijp, at Jozef Israëlskade (floating jetty next to Okura hotel). Navigate to Ferdinand Bolstraat 333 - we meet you at the dock.

Easy to reach by bike, public transport or car. Start your canal trip quickly.

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What guests say about renting with Boaty

Nearly 1,000 positive reviews and an average of 4.5+ stars on TripAdvisor, Google and Yelp. Guests especially appreciate our friendly service, clear briefing and fair prices.

Google

A really nice cruise, with friendly staff Julie and Loisa.

S1m1x 24 June 2026
Google

Joy was incredibly kind and helpful and answered all our questions. The experience was fantastic!

Taisia Shabutskaya June 2026
Google

Joey is amazing! I really enjoyed the service and help provided.

Карл Пражский June 2026

View all Google reviews

Self-drive without a licence - how it works

Rent a boat without a skipper and choose your own route, pace and stops. Our boats are easy to steer and travel at walking pace. Before departure you get a short, clear briefing - even with zero experience.

Ideal for friends weekends, family outings, dates or company events.

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Self-drive without a licence - how it works

Routes through the canals and along the Amstel

In 2 hours you can already cruise Amsterdam's finest routes. Choose from 4 set routes or create your own trip - past Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Rijksmuseum, Magere Brug and NEMO. You receive a route map with marked routes and personal tips.

Routes through the canals and along the Amstel

Electric sloops - quiet, clean and comfortable

Our whisper boats are electric: cruise quietly through the canals with no engine noise or emissions. Room for 6 people, luggage, a picnic - and often your pet too.

No licence or experience? No problem. Personal briefing before departure. Life jackets in all sizes for a safe, relaxed day.

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Electric sloops - quiet, clean and comfortable

What to bring on your trip?

Invite friends, family or colleagues (max. 6). Bring food and drinks. Sunny days: sunglasses and light clothing. Cooler days: warm sweater or umbrella.

More tips? See our frequently asked questions about boat rental in Amsterdam.

FAQs
What to bring on your trip?

About Boaty - Amsterdam boat rental since 2008

Boaty makes boating accessible: no hassle, no boat ownership needed. Just a relaxed day on the water with personal service and fair prices. Nearly 1,000 guests rated us 4.5+ stars.

More about Boaty
About Boaty - Amsterdam boat rental since 2008

Ready to set sail?

Rent a sloop in Amsterdam from €89 for 3 hours. Book online from tomorrow - discover the canals your way.

Book my Boaty now

Online from tomorrow · Sail today? Call +31 20 261 7061 · No licence required

Questions about renting a boat in Amsterdam?

Call us at +31 20 261 7061 or email info@boaty.nl. We are happy to help with personal route tips.

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Questions about renting a boat in Amsterdam?

Frequently asked questions