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