SELF DRIVE BOAT AMSTERDAM
Take a self drive canal boat out with friends or family
Renting a boat in Amsterdam is a great way to spend some quality time with friends or family. It’s extremely relaxing. It’s outdoor. And it’s just you and your clan. Bring some food and drinks. Enjoy the weather and the beautiful scenery. Time will fly!
Why rent a self drive boat?
How to arrange my self drive Amsterdam canal boat?
How to arrange my self drive Amsterdam canal boat?
1. book in advance
(online or by phone)
2. your boat will await you
(clean and charged)
3. you will receive instructions
(handling, routes, rules)
4. and off you go,
enjoy!
Don’t worry, be a happy skipper!
Your Boats4rent self drive boat is basic in a positive way. You can easily drive the boat yourself. Even if you don’t have any experience or license. Before departure we will give you a personal instruction about the handling and the basic rules. As long as you respect these, there is nothing to worry about.
Your self drive boat has a safe and solid construction and enough space for up to six people and some luggage. The electric engine is reliable and easy to operate. And the batteries will definitely last for the length of your trip.
So take it easy and enjoy!
How much to rent a self drive canal boat?
Our electric canal boats are the most affordable in Amsterdam.
You can make a two hour tour from just €79.
| Rate per time slot (excl. 2,70 € p.p. tour tax) | Mo-Sun |
| 2 hours of sailing | €89 (or €79*) |
| 3 hours of sailing | €99 (or €89*) |
Discount!
What did others think of their self-drive canal boat?
What did others think of their self-drive canal boat?
Do you want to find out how others experienced their Amstercan canal boat tour?
Then have a look at our many hundreds of reviews on Google and Tripadvisor.
Our average score on both is more than 4,5 stars.
Do you want to find out how others experienced their Amstercan canal boat tour? Then have a look at our many hundreds of reviews on Google and Tripadvisor. Our average score on both is more than 4,5 stars.
Robin Smets (Google)
“Had an amazing boat ride with my girlfriend through the canals. The staff is very helpful and pleasant and the boat is just what you need to see the city from the water. We both life in Amsterdam, but this is still the best way to explore our beautiful city and feel like a tourist in your own town.”
Fgbpar (Tripadvisor)
“We had a wonderful afternoon strolling the canals of Amsterdam. The boat is very easy to drive and safe. Fay guided us on how to fly the boat and handed us a map of the canals and she was very charming with our children. Unforgettable!!”
Svenja Appuhn (Google)
“We had a great time with our electric boat on the small rivers. The crew was super helpful and nice, the prices are affordable and the place is easy to find. Would recommand this adventure to anyone.”
What do our self-drive canal boats look like?
Our self drive electric canal boats are made of blank aluminium. Hence the boats are leightweight and very solid at the same time. The boat type is called ‘schouw’. For many centuries the wooden and steel versions of this type of boat have been used on Dutch lakes and rivers for professional fishing and also for sailing.
What do our self-drive canal boats look like?
Our self drive electric canal boats are made of blank aluminium. Hence the boats are leightweight and very solid at the same time. The boat type is called ‘schouw’. For many centuries the wooden and steel versions of this type of boat have been used on Dutch lakes and rivers for professional fishing and also for sailing.
Frequently asked questions about our self drive canal boats
Reserve your self drive canal boat in advance!
Renting a self drive canal boat on the Amsterdam canals is popular with locals and visitors alike.
Even more when the sun is out. So make sure to book early!
Renting a self drive canal boat on the Amsterdam canals is popular with locals and visitors alike. Even more when the sun is out. So make sure to book early!
Boat tour with skipper for up to 35 people – relax and enjoy!
Don’t feel like steering yourself, but still want to enjoy a relaxed afternoon on the water? Then book a spacious boat or an original tugboat with a skipper at Boats4rent. Both boats come with comfortable seating, soft cushions, and optional catering to complete your experience. From snack platters to lunch or a fresh burger – you choose how elaborate your cruise will be. Use the calculator below to instantly get your price and easily submit your request. We’ll take care of the rest!
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you do not need a boating license to rent a self-drive canal boat in Amsterdam. The boats are designed to be easy to operate, even for those without prior experience. Before departure, you will receive a personal instruction on handling the boat, basic rules, and recommended routes to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Each self-drive canal boat can accommodate up to six people. This capacity ensures that everyone on board has enough space to enjoy the trip comfortably. The boats are spacious and designed for groups, making them ideal for outings with friends or family.
The rental rates for the self-drive canal boats are as follows: €89 for a 2-hour rental and €99 for a 3-hour rental. If you depart between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, you can benefit from a €10 discount, making the rates €79 and €89 respectively. Please note that these rates exclude a mandatory tourist tax of €2.70 per person.
The pick-up and drop-off location for the self-drive canal boats is at Nassaukade, opposite house number 155, in the center of Amsterdam. This central location is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for exploring the city's canals.
The rental of a self-drive canal boat includes a modern electric boat for up to six people, a personal instruction on handling and safety, a map of the Amsterdam canals, foam seats for comfort, and life jackets. You are also allowed to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy during the trip.
Yes, the self-drive canal boats are equipped with eco-friendly electric engines. These engines are reliable, easy to operate, and provide a clean and quiet boating experience, allowing you to enjoy the canals without contributing to pollution.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks on the self-drive canal boat. This allows you to enjoy a picnic or refreshments while cruising through the Amsterdam canals, enhancing your boating experience.
The operating hours for renting a self-drive canal boat vary throughout the year. Generally, the earliest time to take a boat out is 9:00 AM, and the latest time to return the boat is half an hour before sunset. This means closing times range from 7:00 PM in early spring and late autumn to 9:30 PM during summer.
No, prior boating experience is not required to rent a self-drive canal boat. The boats are designed for easy operation, and before departure, you will receive a personal instruction on handling the boat, basic rules, and recommended routes to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
You can book a self-drive canal boat in Amsterdam by using the online booking system available on the website. It's recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during weekends, holidays, and sunny days when demand is high.