Winter Boating in Friesland

Winter Boating in Friesland: A Unique Experience

Whether you want to go boating in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, at Yachtcharter De Drait, you can rent a boat all year round. More and more people are discovering the charm of winter boating in Friesland. Enjoy an unforgettable time on board with friends or family. Admire the clear starry sky, play a board or card game, explore Friesland’s rich history, and be surprised by the serene tranquility of the Frisian landscape.

Boating is often associated with summer days, but a winter boat trip offers a completely new experience. The nature is stunning, and the water is wonderfully quiet, making you feel as if you have it all to yourself. Many mooring spots in marinas, villages, and cities remain open in winter and are easily accessible. Along the way, you can spot special winter birds and enjoy the unique atmosphere that this season brings.

There is also plenty to enjoy in terms of cuisine during winter. Warm up with a cup of coffee and oranjekoek, savor a platter of Frisian cheese, dried sausage, and a glass of Berenburg, or try a delicious stamppot in one of the cozy restaurants. Winter boating in Friesland is pure enjoyment—an extraordinary experience that you must try at least once!

Experience the Water in Winter in a Unique Way

A winter boat trip requires good preparation. That’s why we provide detailed explanations and useful tips below. Additionally, before departure, you will receive instructions on the boat, sailing routes, and the best mooring spots.

Winter brings peace and tranquility to the water, offering a completely different experience compared to summer. Even when it gets colder outside, you can fully enjoy the comfort on board. Our boats are equipped with a fully equipped kitchen, a heater, warm water, sanitary facilities, and a canopy over the steering position. Inside, there is plenty of space to relax, dine, and sleep.

Winter boating is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy photography, bird watching, or fishing, but also ideal for those who want to explore Friesland’s rich cultural history. Sail along one or more of the famous Eleven Cities (Elfsteden), moor in charming villages, and visit museums or winter events. And what could be better than ending the day on a cozy terrace with a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream?

When the landscape is covered in snow, the scenery becomes even more magical. Winter boating is a unique experience that allows you to discover Friesland in an entirely new way.

The Benefits of Winter Boating

🔌 Always power on board – All our boats are equipped with an inverter, ensuring 220V power at all times. Some boats even have a generator, making you completely independent of shore power.

🔥 Comfortable and warm – All boats are equipped with a heater.

🌿 Peace and space – Enjoy the silence on the water and the enchanting winter landscape without the summer crowds.

⚓ Plenty of mooring spots – Since it’s quieter on the Frisian lakes, many mooring spots in marinas, villages, and cities are available.

📸 Perfect for nature lovers – Winter boating offers unique opportunities for photographers, bird watchers, and fishing enthusiasts to experience nature in a special way.

🏛️ Culture and history – Moor in one of Friesland’s villages or Eleven Cities and discover the region’s rich culture and history.

Want to hit the water this winter? Check current availability and experience the magic of winter boating in Friesland!

Bridge and Lock Operation in Winter

During the winter season, from November 1 to March 31, many bridges and locks in Friesland are operated remotely, and adjusted opening times apply.

🔹 Free passage – A large part of Friesland is navigable without bridges or has a clearance height that allows you to pass without an opening.

🔹 Limited operating hours – During the winter months, bridges and locks are only operated from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, there is no operation.

🔹 Operation on request – Some bridges and locks are only opened on request. This means you must call at least two hours in advance to have the bridge opened at your desired time.

More information on winter bridge operations can be found here.

Marinas and Facilities

Many marinas remain open during winter, including our own in Drachten and Woudsend. Want to know which marinas and facilities are available? The Waterland van Friesland website (only in Dutch) provides a handy overview. Even in winter, you can moor for free at Marrekrite jetties and Marboeien mooring buoys.

Routes for Winter Boating

Have you rented a boat in winter and are wondering where to sail? Our inspiration map shows:

✔️ Overview of remotely operated bridges
✔️ Where you can moor
✔️ Suggested sailing routes

Of course, you can also plan your own route! During check-in and instruction, we’ll be happy to help you choose a suitable route. From our departure locations, you can easily explore Friesland’s waters, even without bridge operation.

📌 Note: The route map is for inspiration only. Always use the latest water charts and almanacs for navigation. Routes may change.

Sail past stunning Frisian cities such as Sloten, Sneek, IJlst, Stavoren, Workum, and Leeuwarden. These are accessible by boat year-round and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. During this season, it’s quieter, allowing you to moor easily in city centers. Enjoy culinary delights, historical sights, and the unique winter atmosphere.

Winter Fleet – Choose Your Ideal Boat for Winter

Would you like to go on a winter adventure with one of our boats? Check availability in our booking calendar and search & book widget. Here are some of our winter favorites:

Classicline 1300 – Ideal for families, available from Drachten and Woudsend. Comfortably accommodates 4 to 6 people, with two or three bathrooms, double glazing, reliable heating, and a generator.

Deluxe 42 – A luxurious yacht with high comfort and an enclosed aft deck, perfect for winter. Accommodates 6 to 10 people, with a spacious layout and comfortable sailing characteristics.

Advantage 42 – The perfect boat for a winter adventure on the Frisian lakes! Features a fixed seating area and garden furniture on the fully enclosed aft deck. This boat is also suitable for 4 to 8 people.

Klompmaker Kotter – Built in Woudsend, suitable for 2 to 8 people. Equipped with an extended canopy, garden furniture, and various comfortable amenities such as warm water, heating, satellite TV, and spacious bathrooms.

🎄 Sailing During the Holidays

Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s in a special way—aboard a comfortable motor yacht! Enjoy an unforgettable time on the water with family or friends. The holiday magic creates a unique setting. With a fully equipped kitchen, including an oven, microwave, and electric stove, preparing a delicious Christmas dinner is effortless.

Sail to the perfect location—whether in a cozy town or in nature for a peaceful, romantic New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a quiet celebration, ideal for dog owners as there’s no firework noise.

🎁 Early booking discount: Book your winter trip during the Christmas holidays and receive a 5% discount!

First Time Boating? No Problem!

Even if you’ve never sailed before, you can rent a boat with us! A skipper training session ensures that you head out well-prepared and confident.

✔️ Less crowded – More space for maneuvering and also easier mooring.
✔️ Calm waters – No busy harbors or heavy traffic.
✔️ Personal guidance – We’re happy to help with route planning and we also provide you with some practical tips.

💡 Tip: Once you’ve gained confidence, boating is an amazing experience. Enjoy the vast Frisian landscape and also the freedom of the water!

What to Bring?

Winter can be cold, so good preparation is key. Wear thermal clothing to stay warm. We recommend waterproof sailing gear, when the outside temperature is low.

More Information or Booking?

Want to go winter boating with one of our motorboats or houseboats? Check availability in our booking calendar or search & book widget. Questions about winter boating? Feel free to contact us —we’re happy to help!

 

❄️ What if there’s ice?

In case of extreme winter conditions that prevent sailing, we offer a suitable solution. Contact us for more details.