A really nice cruise, with friendly staff Julie and Loisa.
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
Rent a boat with skipper in Amsterdam
Rent a boat with skipperA 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 skipperPrices 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.
Reserve your boatWhat 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.
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.
Reserve your boat
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.

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.
View our boats
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
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
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 nowOnline 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.
Contact us
Frequently asked questions
Want to sail today? Call us on +31 20 261 7061 - you can often still get on the water the same day. For tomorrow or later, book easily online.
No. At Boaty you can self-drive without a licence or experience. You get a short personal briefing before departure.
From €69 (2 hours morning) or €89 (3 hours morning). Afternoon/evening from €79 or €99. See our rates page for the full overview.
Maximum 6 people, including children. This is legally required and strictly enforced.
You must be at least 18 years old to rent and drive yourself.
Yes. You choose your route. You get a map with 4 suggested routes but may also cruise freely through the canals and Amstel.
Personal briefing, route map, cushions, life jackets and full battery. Only €2.70 tourist tax per person is extra.
Main rules: keep right and give way. We explain other rules before departure.
Yes, €100 by debit or credit card (not cash). Released within 24 hours if no damage. Refund usually takes 3-5 business days.
At Jozef Israëlskade in De Pijp, next to Okura hotel. Navigate to Ferdinand Bolstraat 333. Reachable by bike, public transport or car.
