Frequently Asked Questions

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

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.

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.

All boats are meant to steer yourself, you are the captain. Boating is not difficult but it depends on the boat type: boats with a tiller “Whisper Boat” are easier to steer, with a steering wheel called “Sloop” are for somewhat more experienced captains. Our staff will give you full instructions how to operate and steer the boat safely.

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.

You do not need a boating licence to drive the boat, but you do need common sense. You participate in traffic on the water, where traffic rules apply. The police will therefore make sure you follow the “boating rules” and a fine may be given.

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.