Here we answer 5 questions about boating in Giethoorn. Practical information for a relaxed visit. Factual and based on knowledge from the village itself. Photo: Aernout Steegstra.

🅠 1. Can everyone go boating in Giethoorn?

Yes. Steering your own boat through the canals is one of Giethoorn’s biggest attractions. You don’t need experience or a boating licence. This makes boating accessible and easy for almost everyone. Before departure, the rental company always explains how to operate the boat, the boating rules and the route. A minimum age of 16 applies for steering an electric whisper boat or sloop. Tour boats are, of course, operated by a certified skipper.

🅠 2. Where can you go with a rental boat in Giethoorn?

With a rental boat, you can cruise through the Dorpsgracht, across the shallow lakes such as the Bovenwijde and the Molengat, and further into the nature of the surrounding Weerribben-Wieden National Park. A trip to the nearby village of Dwarsgracht is also recommended. The most popular route (yellow arrows) takes about 2 hours. The most scenic route (red arrows) takes 4 hours. After the explanation, you’ll receive a clear map showing the route and the points of interest along the way.

🅠 3. What is the main waterway of Giethoorn?

The ‘Dorpsgracht’ is Giethoorn’s main waterway. It runs 8 km from the northern tip of the village, through Lake Molengat and the tourist centre, all the way to Lake Zuideindigerwijde. Along both sides of the Dorpsgracht lies the historic ribbon-shaped village. The houses stand very close to the water and tall wooden bridges connect both sides, giving access to the homes. While boating, you pass traditional farmhouses with thatched roofs, charming bridges and beautiful gardens.

🅠 4. What types of boats can I rent in Giethoorn?

Most rental companies in Giethoorn offer whisper boats, electric console boats and electric sloops. All quiet, sustainable and easy to operate. Some companies also rent traditional ‘punters’ (punt boats) and canoes. Punters are regional wooden boats that you move with a long pole (the ‘punterboom’), and they can even be sailed on the lake. One company also offers canoes for multi-day trips, with overnight stays in your own tent or in wooden cabins along the route. SUP boards are also available at several rentals, with optional instruction. If you don’t want to steer yourself, there are guided boat tours with a skipper.

🅠 5. Is Giethoorn suitable for your children?

Absolutely. The car-free centre is calm and safe to walk around. For children, Giethoorn feels like a water village full of discoveries: boats, bridges, ducks, swans, reed beds, tiny waterways and even a lookout tower. Swimming is possible in Lake Bovenwijde; the water quality is monitored and there is a popular swimming island with a beach. The good thing about Giethoorn is that almost everywhere the water is only about 1m deep. Of course, young children must still be supervised on and near the water. Rental companies always provide children’s life jackets.