Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Location & Parking

• Address: Beulakerweg 55, 8355 AB Giethoorn.

• Parking: Free parking is available for up to 125 cars, conveniently located just a few steps from the boat rental area

Free parking available at Giethoorn Eco Boat Rental & Tours. More than 125 parking spaces available from where you start to explore the village, by walking,  rental boat or Canal Cruise.

GPS location: Beulakerweg 55    8355 AB Giethoorn

The best eco boat tour in Giethoorn is provided by Giethoorn Eco Boat Rental & Tours, known for its quiet, electric boats and commitment to sustainable tourism. Whether you prefer to explore at your own pace or join a guided experience, this service offers an environmentally friendly way to enjoy the village’s iconic canals.

Why it’s the best:

• ✅ Eco-friendly electric boats – No noise, no emissions, no license required.

• ✅ Self-guided and guided options – Enjoy the flexibility of driving yourself or join a knowledgeable local guide.

• ✅ Scenic and peaceful routes – Cruise through Giethoorn’s historic waterways, under charming wooden bridges and past traditional thatched-roof cottages.

• ✅ Great for families and couples – Safe, relaxing, and unforgettable.

• ✅ Local insight – Guided tours include stories about Giethoorn’s culture, history, and nature.

Tip: Book in advance, especially during weekends or summer months, as eco boat tours are in high demand.

•   Booking – Book ahead in peak season  [booking link]

No, you can drop by anytime to rent a boat. But in the summer months and on weekends, it can be very busy and there can be queues. With a reservation, you will have priority and your boat will be ready when you arrive. From this perspective, we suggest that you should make a reservation for a boat to be certain.

•   Booking – Book ahead in peak season  [booking link]

Boat pick-up:  Beulakerweg 55    8355 AB Giethoorn

1-hour cruise is to get an impression of the village, you cruise through Giethoorn Village and nature reserve. A fun trip if you don’t have too much time or if you are not so fond of water, but still want to experience what it is like to boat in Giethoorn. This tour is meant to boat continuously for 1 hour, stopping is not possible.

2-hour cruise to see beautiful parts of the village, an ideal trip to avoid the big crowds. It lets you see Giethoorn, but no traffic jams and chaos. This tour is meant to boat continuously for 2 hours, stopping is not possible.

3-hour cruise to see Giethoorn Village, is the most frequently booked tour. You really see all the highlights and hotspots. On your camera, you won’t miss a picture that others may have. Depending on how crowded the canal is with boats, the trip takes 2½ to 3 hours. Upon departure, you will be instructed whether it is possible to take a short break to buy an ice cream along the way. Please follow the information/instructions given by our staff, there are penalties for returning late. Keep in mind that other guests waiting for the boat to return at the agreed time and want to do the same enjoyable trip as you.

Boating in Giethoorn is not difficult, and anyone can do it—with a little guidance! All our boats are self-steered, which means you are the captain. The ease of handling depends slightly on the type of boat you choose:

• ✅ Whisper Boats (with a tiller) – These are the easiest to steer and ideal for beginners.

• ✅ Sloops (with a steering wheel) – These offer a bit more control and comfort, best suited for those with some experience or confidence.

No boating license is required. Our friendly staff will give you clear instructions and a short demonstration before departure, so you’ll feel confident and safe navigating Giethoorn’s peaceful canals.

Tip: If it’s your first time boating, we recommend starting with a Whisper Boat.

We have life jackets (while stocks last). Also, all waters where you boat, even the lake is only 75 centimetres deep, in other words you can stand anywhere. You are not in any danger for a moment.

We do warn you to keep your hands inside the boat to avoid getting hurt if another boat accidentally makes contact with you.

Yes, you can rent an electric boat in Giethoorn without a boating license. Most electric and whisper boats are easy to operate and designed specifically for tourists, including those with no previous boating experience. At Giethoorn Eco Boat Rental & Tours, all boats are license-free, quiet, and eco-friendly, making them perfect for a relaxing and sustainable day on the water.

Why no license is needed:

• ✅ Boats have limited speed (safe for beginners).

• ✅ Simple controls and easy navigation.

• ✅ Safety instructions and route maps are provided before departure.

Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers, and groups looking to explore Giethoorn’s canals at their own pace.

Tip: Arrive a few minutes early for a short safety briefing and a demonstration on how to operate the boat.

If you need help for any reason, you can always call us and we will send one of our “Service/Rescue boats” that are always standby or cruise around to assist you.

With the navigation app, it is impossible to sail in the wrong direction and get lost. At all times we know where you are, all boats are equipped with track and trace. In almost all cases, a phone call is enough to get you back on track. If you do need help for any reason, our “Service/Rescue boats” are always on standby or are already on the water to help.

• By boat:
  Keep right
  Keep your distance from other boats
  Do not bump into other boats
  Do not sail too fast
  Commercial shipping always has the right of way
  Be polite and let others pass
• As a tourist:
  Respect someone’s privacy
  No walking into gardens of houses
  No loud noises or loud radios

Sorry but pets are not allowed in the boats

Yes, to rent a boat and drive a boat, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid identification document.

Yes, for your safety and to protect the environment, we provide designated boating areas where you can enjoy the waterways without straying into restricted zones.

Your safety is our priority. In case of adverse weather conditions, we may offer rescheduling options or refunds. Our team will be in touch with you in such situations.

Our cancellation policy may vary depending on the rental type and timing. Please refer to our website or contact us directly for detailed information.

General Cancellation policy: Reservations can be canceled up to 7 days before arrival (administration costs €11.50 per booking). The guest pays the total price of the reservation if he/she cancels within 7 days before arrival.

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Yes, we offer guided boat tours led by experienced guides who will provide interesting insights into the local history and points of interest.

🛥️ Boat Rental Options

Giethoorn Eco Boat Rental & Tours offers a variety of eco-friendly, electric boats suitable for different group sizes:

• 2–4 Person Sloop: Ideal for couples or small families.

• 2–6 Person Sloop: Offers extra space and comfort.

• 2–8 Person Sloop: Available with a skipper for those who prefer a guided experience.

Most people spend about 4 to 6 hours there—just enough time to enjoy a boat ride through the canals, wander or bike around the village, and grab a bite at one of the cozy local spots.

Giethoorn can get quite busy, especially in the popular central areas. But not at Giethoorn Eco Boat Rental and Tours! We take you to a quieter, more authentic part of the village—the historic northern center of Giethoorn. It’s a hidden gem that many visitors miss.

📅 Booking & Reservations

• Advance Booking: While walk-ins are welcome, it’s highly recommended to reserve your boat in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer weekends and holidays, to avoid long wait times.

• Reservation Process: You can book your boat online through our official website.

• Rental Durations: Boats can be rented for 1, 2, or 3 hours. A 1-hour cruise offers a brief overview of the village and nearby nature reserves, while longer durations allow for a more in-depth exploration.

•   Booking – Book ahead in peak season  [booking link]