Frequently asked questions
Everything about renting a boat, joining a cruise, parking, weather, children and groups. Not found what you need? Send us a WhatsApp.
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Exploring Giethoorn
What is the best way to explore Giethoorn?
By boat. Join a guided one-hour canal cruise with a local captain, or rent your own electric boat and explore at your own pace. For groups or special occasions, a private tour is a great option.
Can you walk through Giethoorn?
Yes. There is a beautiful walking path along the main canal, but the best views are from the water.
Is Giethoorn really car-free?
The historic centre has no roads for cars; you get around by boat, on foot or by bike. There is free parking at our location at the entrance of the village.
Are the canals natural or man-made?
They are man-made, originally dug by peat workers.
How long do I need for a visit?
A typical visit takes two to four hours. A full day is ideal.
Is Giethoorn crowded?
It can be busy in summer. Early morning or late afternoon is quieter.
Boats and cruising
Do I need a boating licence?
No. All rental boats are licence-free.
How old do you have to be to steer a boat?
At least 12 years old.
Are the rental boats covered?
No, they are open electric boats for the best views. If you prefer a covered boat, book a canal cruise or a private tour on the covered boat.
Can I choose my own route?
Yes. You receive a free navigation app with several routes.
Can you get lost while sailing?
No. The routes are clear and the navigation app helps you.
Can I dock the boat anywhere?
No. Only in designated areas shown in the app.
Can I stop the boat to swim?
Swimming is allowed but not recommended in the village canals.
Weather
Do cruises continue in rain?
Yes. Cruise boats are covered and heated.
Can I rent a boat when it rains?
Yes. You can also reschedule if needed, depending on availability.
Is it cold on the water?
Cruise boats are warm. For rental boats, bring a jacket on cooler days.
Can we sail in winter?
Yes. Rental boats and cruises operate year-round, depending on weather conditions.
Children and safety
Are children allowed on the boats?
Yes. All ages are welcome.
Do you have life jackets for children?
Yes, available on request and as an add-on during booking.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! You can add your dog to your booking.
Is Giethoorn wheelchair friendly?
The village and the cruise boats are very accessible, and one of our large cruise boats is wheelchair accessible. Let us know when booking.
Food and drinks
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you may bring your own snacks and drinks.
Can I order picnic baskets through you?
Yes. You can add them during booking.
Is there a restaurant nearby?
Yes. There is a restaurant right at our cruise dock.
Reservations and payments
Should I book ahead of time?
Yes. Giethoorn is very popular in spring and summer. Booking online takes two minutes.
Can I book on the day itself?
Only if there is availability. Online booking is recommended.
Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation applies as described in our terms and conditions. Cancellation insurance is available as an add-on.
What if I do not receive a confirmation e-mail?
Check your spam folder or contact us.
Can I pay with cash?
No. At the dock you can pay by card only: your bank card or your phone. When you book online, you pay in advance in the booking system.
Getting here and parking
How do I get to Giethoorn by train?
Travel to Steenwijk station. From there, take bus 70 to Giethoorn (stop Dominee Hylkemaweg).
How often does bus 70 run?
Generally every 30 minutes during the day.
Is parking available?
Yes. We have spacious on-site parking for cars and coaches, free of charge.
Do you offer charging for electric cars?
Not on site, but nearby locations have chargers.
Is there a bus from Amsterdam?
Yes, we offer a daily direct coach from Amsterdam. Return ticket €39, or €49 including a canal cruise.
Groups
Do you accept large groups?
Yes. From twenty to more than two hundred guests. See our group page.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes. Please contact us for group pricing.
Can I combine a cruise with lunch or dinner?
Yes. We arrange group menus at our cruise dock.