First time renting a boat in Friesland? Here’s what you need to know

Are you going on a boating holiday in Friesland for the first time? Have you rented a boat for the first time or do you have limited experience with operating a motor yacht? Everyone can operate our boats, and boating is enjoyable for all ages!

Perhaps you have always wanted to be the captain of a motor yacht but have little or no experience. Even without boating experience, you can rent a boat from us and enjoy a relaxing time on the water. Before departure, we provide all the information and instructions you need, so you can set off with confidence.

In this blog, we explain why Friesland is an ideal boating area for beginners. We also provide practical information, answer frequently asked questions, and share useful tips. Do you have questions about renting a boat in Friesland for the first time? Please contact us — we are happy to help.

Why rent a boat for your holiday?

A boat is a peaceful means of transport to explore the Frisian Lakes and the surrounding landscape at a relaxed pace. You cruise past meadows and nature, allowing you to fully enjoy the local flora and fauna. Along the way, you pass charming villages and cities where you can easily moor in marinas or at public berths close to town centers, placing all highlights within walking distance.

Friesland has no locks or fast-flowing rivers, making it an ideal boating area for beginners and less experienced skippers. You will encounter many movable bridges with efficient and frequent operation throughout the year. In addition, there are numerous free mooring spots in nature, managed by Recreatieschap Marrekrite, often located in unique and scenic settings. Friesland is therefore an excellent choice for your first boating holiday.

Do you need a boating license?

You may want to rent a boat but do not have a boating license. In the Netherlands, a license is required only if the boat is longer than 15 meters or capable of speeds over 20 km/h. As all our boats are under 15 meters and do not exceed 20 km/h, none of our boats require a boating license.

A license and/or experience is only required if you wish to sail on the Wadden Sea or IJsselmeer with our boats.

How do I choose the right boat?

If this is your first time renting a boat, choosing the right vessel can feel challenging. Start by considering your group composition: are you traveling as a couple, with family, or with a larger group of friends? How many cabins, bathrooms, and toilets do you require? Our boats accommodate 2 to 14 people, feature up to 7 cabins, and have 1 to 3 bathrooms. Boat lengths range from 7.5 to 15 meters.

Our recommendations for beginners include: Sloep Cabin, Doerak, Safari Houseboat, Kotter Yacht, or Renal 36/40.

If you are traveling with a larger group, a bigger boat is not necessarily a problem for beginners. Larger boats require more space for maneuvering and have a longer stopping distance. With a pre-departure skipper training, one of our experienced instructors will accompany you on the water and guide you through docking, maneuvering, and other essential skills. Larger boats are also equipped with bow and stern thrusters, making handling easier.

Which boating routes are suitable for beginners?

If you are completely new to boating or new to Friesland, choosing the right route is an important consideration. Route selection depends on several factors.

First, consider the type of boat, as not every boat is suitable for every waterway. That is why we provide tailored routes per location and per boat type. Always take the boat’s dimensions into account — length, width, air draft, and draft depth — especially when passing bridges or selecting mooring locations.

Also check the weather forecast. Avoid boating in strong winds or poor visibility and adjust your route if necessary. Friesland offers mooring options almost everywhere, allowing you to adapt your plans easily. If you want to secure a berth at a specific marina, you can find contact details via the Water Map and make a reservation. Often, however, reporting at a waiting jetty or using a free berth and paying at an automated terminal or to the harbormaster is sufficient.

Recommended destinations for beginner skippers include: Sneek, Langweer, Grou, and Heeg.

What should you bring on board?

If this is your first boating trip, you may wonder what is already available on board and what you need to bring yourself. It is useful to check the onboard inventory in advance and see which extras can be rented. This allows you to prepare a tailored packing list based on your group and the season.

Consider items such as sun protection, seasonal clothing, reusable water bottles, and groceries.

From most mooring locations, town centers and supermarkets are within walking distance. Even small villages such as Langweer and Sloten have local grocery stores. Prefer dining out? Take a look at our blog featuring the 20 best waterfront restaurants.

What is the best time to go boating?

You can rent a boat with us all year round. Perfect weather is not required for an enjoyable boating holiday — even a winter cruise offers a unique experience. Simply adapt your packing list and route to the weather conditions.

Spring and autumn are generally quieter on the water than the busy summer months and public holidays, making them ideal periods for many guests. That said, summer also offers plenty of mooring opportunities and a wide range of events on and around the water, such as SKS and IFKS Skûtsjesilen or the Frisian Tugboat Days in Woudsend. You can find an overview of all the events in Friesland here.

Ready for departure?

Once your boating holiday is planned, you will receive access to our online charter manual before departure. This includes detailed information about the boating area and your rented boat, as well as routes, navigation rules, bridge opening times, departure and return procedures, and boat operation.

You will also find instructions on using the helm station, onboard power supply, heating system, and toilet facilities.

What about boating regulations and safety?

Safety should always be your priority, both for yourself and your passengers. Children should always wear life jackets, and skippers should familiarize themselves with the applicable boating regulations.

Everything moves more slowly on the water than on the road, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings. Cruise calmly, look behind you regularly, reduce speed in time, and never rush when docking or departing. Agree in advance on who assists with docking and what each person’s responsibilities are.

Why rent a boat from De Drait?

You do not need to worry if you have never boated before or if this is your first visit to Friesland. The region is ideal for beginners, and no boating license is required for our fleet.

The team at Yachtcharter De Drait — all passionate watersports enthusiasts — will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the boat, the boating area, routes, mooring spots, and regulations. If you would like additional experience before departure, our instructors are happy to offer a skipper training session.

Book your boating holiday today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

More information or booking

Our online booking calendar and “search & book” function show real-time availability of our fleet. Do you have questions about renting a motorboat for the first time or your upcoming boating holiday? Please contact us — we are happy to assist you.