Canal Motorboats

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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 have 2 different boats to choose from. The blue boat and the green boat. Both boats have a different price. Take a look at our boat rates.

The departure location is at Zandhoek 22 1013 KT Amsterdam.This is near the famous Prinsengracht. It is within walking distance from Central Station and easily accessibel by bus, bike and car. You will find a route description for more information.

We are open 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 - 22:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 22:00

Our green boats have room for up to 7 people and our blue boats are suitable for up to 8 people. It is also possible for larger groups to rent boats. Please contact us if you want this.

You have to be 18 years or older to drive the boat.

You can hire a boat for 2 hours or longer. For every hour after that, you pay a low hourly rate. This way you can decide for yourself how long you want to rent a boat in Amsterdam.

We hope that this does not happen, but should it happen we charge €30,- for each 15 minutes late. Do you think you will be late? In that case, call us immediately.

You can call us at that time to ask if this is possible because of other reservations. If you are late bringing the boat back without permission we will charge you €30 per 15 minutes late.

Up to 48 hours before the start of the reservation? Then you can move free of charge. Cancel completely? Then you will get 50% of the amount paid back.

Within 48 hours before the start of the reservation? Canceling or moving is then no longer possible. You then owe the full amount.

In weather conditions where it is not safe to sail, only Canal Motorboats can decide to move the reservation. The reservation will then be rescheduled free of charge to a date to be determined later by the tenant (within one year after the booked date). We will of course contact you.

View our terms and conditions for more information.

Read the most frequently asked questions

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Opening hours

Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 21:00

Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 – 22:00

Discover the city from the water with Canal Motorboats

Choose your own private boat
No license required
incl. pillows, blankets and routes
Lowest rates
In the center of Amsterdam
Free life jackets for children
You are the captain
Place for 7 or 8 people
All boats are electric sloops
+ 31 (0) 20 422 70 07