Canal cruise and private tour
For a shared canal cruise or a private tour, ask us in advance whether your dog can join that departure. Call or WhatsApp before you book.
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Giethoorn with your dog
Your dog is welcome on board our rental boats for € 11.95. Tips for the village, the lake and the terraces.
Dogs on board
Bring your dog along
A boat trip is one of the few day trips where your dog can simply come along. Our electric boats are quiet, stable and open, so most dogs settle down within minutes and enjoy the breeze.
Add “Bring your dog along” as an extra in the booking form (€ 11.95 per booking) or tell us at check-in. Bring a towel: a wet dog and a cushioned boat are not a great combination.
- Dog on board € 11.95 per booking
- Quiet electric boats, no loud motor
- Water bowl in the boat is a good idea
In the village
On the leadKeep your dog on the lead on the Binnenpad and in the village: the paths are narrow and busy.
SwimmingNot in the village canals. On the open Bovenwijde lake your dog can take a dip while the boat is moored and the motor is off.
TerracesMany terraces along the water welcome dogs on the lead; ask when you moor. For our own restaurant, let us know when you reserve.
Clean upBring bags. The gardens along the canal are private and kept with love.
Tips for a relaxed trip
Choose a quiet moment: early in the morning or later in the afternoon on a weekday there are fewer boats, so your dog is not startled by every passing cruise boat. See when it is quietest.
Let your dog board last and step out first, and keep the lead short near the bridges. On warm days pick a route with shade and water: the routes page shows the options, and the 2-hour route across the lake is a favourite.
Other boats and stays
Dogs on the cruise, in the hotel
Hotels
Staying overnight with your dog? Ask when you book a room at Hotel Old Art or Hotel Giethoorn; we tell you honestly what is possible.
Questions about dogs
Can my dog come on the rental boat?
Yes. Add “Bring your dog along” in the booking form for € 11.95 per booking, or mention it at check-in.
How much does it cost to bring a dog?
€ 11.95 per booking for a self-drive boat, regardless of the rental time.
Can my dog swim in Giethoorn?
Not in the village canals. On the open Bovenwijde lake your dog can swim while the boat is moored.
Do dogs have to be on the lead in the village?
Yes, keep your dog on the lead on the paths and bridges. They are narrow and busy, and the gardens are private.
Are dogs allowed on the canal cruise?
Ask us before you book; it depends on the departure and the group. Call +31 521 360 606 or send a WhatsApp.
Are the terraces dog friendly?
Many terraces along the water welcome dogs on the lead. Ask when you moor, and let us know when you reserve at our own restaurant.
Take your dog on the water
Book your boat online and add your dog as an extra. Your boat is ready when you arrive.