The Netherlands was made for sailing. From the Frisian Lakes to Zeeland and from the Vecht to the Biesbosch National Park, you'll find beautiful sailing routes everywhere, featuring nature, villages, and historic towns. This guide reveals the most beautiful sailing routes by province, complete with practical information for each leg: distance, clearance, boat type, highlights, and mooring tips. Plan a successful day trip or weekend getaway in no time.
Before you set off, it's important to know which boating license you need and whether your boat meets the correct requirements. This way, you'll be well-prepared for the water and avoid fines or unsafe situations.
We'll start with a brief explanation about smart route planning (bridge/closing times, draft, closures) and then take you along 10 routes that showcase the best of the Netherlands.
1. Planning sailing routes online: how to do it smartly
Handy route planners let you create and save a route online based on boat details (draft, width/height). You'll immediately see distance, sailing time, bridge/closing times, and any closures. Tip: always set your profile correctly (clearance and draft) and add any desired stops . Just before departure, double-check the current reports and take wind and (tidal) currents on large bodies of water into account. Not sure if you need a boating license for your route? Then also read our comprehensive article "Which boating license do you need in the Netherlands and Europe?"
2. Friesland – The Frisian Lakes Classic
Route : Sneek – Grou – Terherne – Joure (variants possible) Distance : 35–55 km Vertical clearance : variable (operated bridges) Boat : sloop, sailboat, motor yacht. Highlights : Sneekermeer lake, picturesque Terherne, charming village harbours. Mooring : many passing moorings on lakes and in villages. Tip : plan bridge crossings outside peak hours and take events in Sneek into account.
3. North Holland – Alkmaar → Amsterdam (North Holland Canal)
Route : Alkmaar – Purmerend – Amsterdam • Distance : approx. 45 km • Vertical clearance : approx. 2.5–3.4 m (bridges operated) • Boat : motorboat, sloop. Highlights : Alkmaar's historic city centre, polders, entrance via the IJ. Mooring : marinas in Alkmaar/Amsterdam, marinas along the canal. Tip : check bridge turning times and special passage rules towards the IJ.
4. South Holland – Dutch Lakes & Kaag
Route : Leiden – Kaag – Braassemermeer – (return) Distance : 30–50 km Vertical clearance : several bridges; frequently served Boat : sloop, sailboat, motor yacht. Highlights : islands with picnic spots, lively terraces. Mooring : plenty of jetties and marinas. Tip : if the Kaag is busy, leave early and moor near the small islands around lunchtime.
5. Zeeland – Tour of Veerse Meer & Veere
Route : Kortgene – Veere – Kamperland (circular) • Distance : 25–40 km • Water : salt/brackish • Boat : motor and sailing yachts. Highlights : uninhabited islands, Veere harbour, clear water. Tip : watch out for buoyage and shallows near the islands; anchorages are popular in the afternoon.
6. Utrecht – The Vecht: Muiden → Maarssen
Route : Muiden – Weesp – Loenen a/d Vecht – Maarssen Distance : 25–35 km Vertical clearance : several (low) bridges; frequently operated Boat : sloop, low cabin boat. Highlights : country estates, tea pavilions, forts. Mooring : village harbours, along quays with facilities. Tip : take into account the limited height; put your elevation profile accurately in your planner.
7. Gelderland – IJssel & Hanseatic Cities
Route : Zutphen – Deventer – Kampen Distance : 60–85 km Current : yes (river system) Boat : experienced motorboat. Highlights : historic quays and city centers. Mooring : marinas in Hanseatic cities. Tip : plan your trip downstream for calmer sailing and keep an eye on the water level.
8. Overijssel – Giethoorn & Weerribben-Wieden
Route : Giethoorn – Blokzijl – Ossenzijl (variants) Distance : 20–35 km Draught : limited in sections Boat : small motorboat, sloop, whisper boat. Highlights : reed beds, swamp forests, narrow waterways, 't Eiland viewpoint. Tip : sail quietly (nature reserve), respect speed limits; ideal in the early and late season.
9. North Brabant – De Biesbosch National Park
Route : Drimmelen – creeks & killen – Amer (circular) • Distance : 25–45 km • Water : freshwater tides • Boat : sloop/motorboat, experience recommended. Highlights : willow tidal forests, narrow creeks, beaver trails. Tip : varying water levels and shallows; navigate accurately and start with a full battery/fuel.
10. Groningen – Reitdiep → Lauwersmeer
Route : Groningen – Aduard – Zoutkamp – Lauwersmeer Distance : 45–60 km Vertical clearance : several (low) bridges Boat : sloop/cabin boat. Highlights : meandering Reitdiep, bird-rich Lauwersmeer. Tip : take binoculars; chance of seeing sea eagles in the national park.
Frequently asked questions about sailing routes in the Netherlands
Do I need a boating license for these routes?
Not for most inland routes, as long as your boat is shorter than 15 meters and doesn't exceed 20 km/h. For larger or faster boats, a Boating License I/II is required. Read our article "Which Boating License Do You Need in the Netherlands and Europe?" for a complete overview by boat type and sailing area.
What is the best time to sail?
April–October is peak season. For peace and quiet and nature, spring or late summer. July–August is busier in popular areas (Kaag, Frisian Lakes, Veerse Meer).
How do I check bridge and lock operation and closures?
Use a current water map or route planner and check the latest reports just before departure. Set your boat profile (height, width, draft) correctly to avoid surprises.