Discover Friesland from the Water: Five Surprising Mooring Spots

A boating holiday is about much more than just sailing: it is about discovering unique places along the way. From cosy waterside terraces to peaceful natural areas where you can spend the night surrounded by nature.

Friesland is the perfect region to explore from the water. With hundreds of kilometres of waterways, charming villages, historic Eleven Cities and vast nature reserves, every day on the water brings new adventures. Whether you are planning a week with family, a romantic weekend or a trip with friends, you will find plenty of mooring spots along the way.

Even better: this summer you can benefit from a 20% last-minute discount on boating holidays for departures until 31 July 2026. This makes a spontaneous boating holiday in Friesland even more attractive. In addition, you can rent a Renal 36 for up to six people at a fixed low rate of just €1,900 including service costs until 11 September 2026.

Below you will find five mooring spots that, in our view, should not be missed on any cruising route through Friesland:

Sloten – small in size, big in charm

Sloten is the smallest of the Eleven Cities, but perhaps one of the most atmospheric. Moor at the Sleattemer Gat and walk straight into a town filled with historic canals, old city gates and cosy terraces. Its compact centre makes it an ideal stop for families, as everything is within walking distance. Experience the authentic Frisian atmosphere here.

Grou – the heart of Frisian watersports

Grou is known as one of the most popular watersports destinations in Friesland. The village is centrally located in the Frisian lake district and serves as an excellent base for various cruising routes.

After mooring, you can enjoy restaurants, shops and waterside terraces. Grou is also a great stop for families thanks to its lively atmosphere and wide range of activities in the area. With several restaurants and cafés, it is also ideal for larger groups. Mooring is available at Pikmeer Harbour, Helling Harbour or Suderkade.

Earnewâld – cruising through National Park De Alde Feanen

For nature lovers, Earnewâld (Eernewoude) is highly recommended. This village is located in the heart of National Park De Alde Feanen, one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Netherlands. While cruising through the park, you pass reed beds, meadows, windmills and small canals. All waterways are interconnected, making a boat the perfect way to explore the area.

For families, a visit is both fun and educational. Children can spot birds, swim, fish or play in the playground located directly next to the marina in Eernewâld.

Mooring is available at the marina in Eernewâld (next to a playground) or at Camping It Wiid, which offers plenty of activities. For an overnight stay in nature, there are several Marrekrite moorings on small islands in the middle of the landscape. For coffee, lunch or dinner, you can also moor at the jetty of Hotel Prinsenhof.

Langweer – a charming village by the water

Langweer is a favourite destination among water sports enthusiasts. The village combines a charming centre with a beautiful location on the Frisian Lakes. Its main street offers shops, cosy terraces and excellent restaurants. Thanks to its compact layout, Langweer feels welcoming and easy to navigate.

Right next to the Langweer visitor harbour, you will find a lovely swimming beach with play equipment.

Heeg – Friesland’s watersports hotspot

Heeg has long been one of the most popular watersports destinations in Friesland. The village is known for its strong boating tradition, lively centre and excellent facilities for visiting boats.

From Heeg, it is easy to explore various lakes, making it an ideal stop on any cruising route through Friesland. Families will also find plenty to enjoy. Heeg has a pleasant beach with play equipment and a water slide, as well as shops and waterside restaurants in the village centre.

Discover Friesland this summer with a discount

Haven’t planned your summer holiday or weekend on the water yet? Now is the perfect time to head out. Thanks to our 20% last-minute discount on departures until 31 July 2026, you can enjoy an attractive offer during the best boating season.

You can also benefit from a great price when choosing our Renal 36 for six people with three cabins, starting from €1,900 including service costs.