Canal Motorboats

Maximum speed of the boat

On the Amsterdam canals there is a maximum speed limit of 6 km per hour. Please note that you may be fined if this speed is exceeded. The amount of the fine depends on the speed limit and starts from €95,-.

Are you allowed to put on music while boating in Amsterdam?

It is forbidden to play music on your boat. If you do not abide by this Amsterdam boating rule, the enforcers may confiscate your equipment and issue a fine.

Keep in mind the houseboats

Do not go too close near the houseboats and don’t take picture inside the houseboats when you hire a boat and cruise the Amsterdam canals.

Keep the boat and the canals clean

The use of confetti, fireworks, rice etc. is not allowed on board. It is also not allowed to throw waste overboard. You can dispose of the waste in the waste bin at the boat rental location. If the boat is not left free of waste, you will be charged an amount of at least € 50,- for cleaning.

Who should give way to whom on the Amsterdam canals?

One of Amsterdam canal rules that always applies is that taller boats must have the right of way. So, do you see a boat that is longer than yours? Then always give the boat the right of way. In addition, always give way to commercial traffic. This also includes tour boats.

Which side of the canal should you stay on?

In accordance with the Amsterdam canal rules, you should always stay on the right side of the Amsterdam canals. This is also referred to as starboard. Make it clear to other boats which way you want to go.

Where are you not allowed to cruise in Amsterdam?

There are some places in Amsterdam where you are not allowed to cruise when you rent a boat in Amsterdam. For example, you are not allowed to go on the IJ and the open harbour front (in front of Central Station).

Are you allowed to drink alcohol when boating in Amsterdam?

You are allowed to drink alcohol while boating in Amsterdam, but the skipper has to be sober. The maximum alcohol level as a skipper is 0.5. There is no limit for passengers. However, strict attention is paid to avoid nuisance and inappropriate behaviour. There are also high fines for this. In addition, you are not insured against damage if the skipper has exceeded the alcohol level.

Where are you not allowed to moor in Amsterdam?

According to the Amsterdam boating rules, you may not moor under or at bridges and in places where this is indicated by means of a prohibition sign. Mooring to houseboats and other vessels is also not permitted.

Amsterdam cruising rules

We at Canal motorboats feel it is very important to remind our guests to treat local residents with respect. Make sure you observe the rules while cruising Amsterdam and do not cause any form of nuisance to local residents or others on the water. We would also like to remind you that strict action is taken against nuisance and inappropriate behaviour by Amsterdam’s enforcers. So follow the Amsterdam boating rules for a fun and safe trip! Check out all the other boating rules that apply in Amsterdam on the official website.

  • Mooring prohibited Mooring prohibited
  • Forbidden to take a berth Forbidden to take a berth
  • Pay attention Pay attention
  • Forbidden to pass Forbidden to pass
  • No entry No entry

What do our customers say?

Where can you find us?

Do you have a question?

We offer three options:
  • Rent an electric boat that you may sail yourself, no boating license required.
  • Rent a private canal boat with a captain and space for 30 people (The IJdok), including additional packages like catering and activities.
  • Purchase a ticket for a canal cruise starting from Amsterdam Central, cruising through Amsterdam Center in 1 hour.

We are open every day, all year round. These are our opening hours:
  • Monday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Friday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 - 21:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 21:00

In addition to the regular boat fee, we are required to charge tourist tax at €2.50 per person. This applies to all boat rental companies in Amsterdam.

Yes, we provide enjoyable corporate outings, friend outings, team-building events, and family outings. We can organize a fun scavenger hunt, catering, or for example, go plastic fishing during the boat trip. Rent multiple small boats that you can sail yourself or choose for a private cruise boat with a captain and space for 30 people.

Of course! Every year we have some great offers during popular events such as King's Day, Amsterdam Gay pride and Amsterdam Light Festival. The rental of the boats usually starts 4 to 6 months in advance. So, make sure to book in advance to secure a boat.

Available boats

  • Small boats that you can sail yourself
  • Private canal boats with a captain and space for 30 people (The IJdok)
  • Tickets for the large canal cruise boats

Do you need to sail yourself or is there a captain?

Please note: on King's Day, you always rent a boat with a captain. You can rent both the small boats and the large private canal cruise boat with space for 30 people. On other holidays/events, you are allowed to sail yourself.

Food and drinks

Regarding food and drinks on King's Day and Gay Pride: On the small boats where you are the captain, you may bring your own food and drinks. On the large IJdok boats (30-person boats), it's only allowed to bring your own food. We will arrange the drinks for you.  

When you rent a boat with us, you can go plastic fishing for free. We provide all the necessary equipment on board, including nets and garbage bags, allowing you to fish for plastic during your cruise. Not only is it a fun activity, but it's also environmentally friendly! This activity can be booked at no extra cost for the self-drive boats and private canal cruises. It's important to notify us in advance. You can book this by including 'plastic fishing' in the comments when making a reservation.

You can choose from various locations in Amsterdam. Please note: where you pick up the boat, you must also return the boat.
  • Location Amsterdam Centre: Zandhoek 22, 1013 KT Amsterdam. Check the directions for more information.

Canal Motorboats is one of the most affordable boat rental companies in the city. You can rent a boat that you can sail yourself starting from €100 for 2 hours. Each additional hour is €50 per hour. This way, you can decide how long you want to cruise the canals. Check our rates for more information.

The boats available for self-driving are suitable for a maximum of 8 people. Fewer is also allowed.
Read the most frequently asked questions

Or contact us

Did not find what you're looking for? We are happy to talk to you.

Opening hours

Monday to Sunday: 10:00 – 21:00

Discover the city from the water with Canal Motorboats

Option 1: Sail yourself without a license
Option 2: Buy a sightseeing tour ticket
Option 3: Private cruise with a captain
Lowest rates
Multiple boarding locations
Around Amsterdam city center
Guaranteed a fun day
Perfect for group outings
All boats are electric
+ 31 (0) 20 422 70 07