About Holland, Amsterdam and Friesland

Enter a world of beauty by the sea in Friesland-Amsterdam

The water is a way of life in Holland, a nation born of the sea and the rivers that flow across its pastoral flat lands. An Amsterdam canal cruise past slowly turning windmills, fields of colorful tulips, quaint villages and cosmopolitan cities ushers you into a realm unique in boating. It’s a place to explore at your leisure, inviting you to ease into an unhurried journey like no other.

 

Map showing where the Friesland & Holland boating region is in the Netherlands

Search this region

If you are unable to find your perfect vacation on our website please contact our Boating Experts who may be able to help create a bespoke offering for you.

Holland, Amsterdam and Friesland map

Holland, Amsterdam and Friesland Region map

 = Le Boat Base           = Canal           = Navigable river           = No navigation beyond this point

The perfect boating region for...

History & Heritage

Dutch clogs in a shop

The Friesland-Amsterdam region is replete with history and heritage, especially in Amsterdam and Utrecht! Check out Amsterdam's Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace and Dom Square! In historic Utrecht, don't miss the tour of Stadskasteel Oudaen, a fortified house turned into a brewery!

Water Sports

Two boys Paddleboarding

The Lakeland district is famous for watersports vacations throughout Europe! Boating is not just a pastime in Friesland-Amsterdam, it's a way of life! Check out the watersports rents in Sneek and Grouw! Canoe, kayak, jet ski and sail!

Cycling

Red cycle and red door

Holland isn't known for its hills, making it ideal for bicycle tours in Friesland-Amsterdam! Cruise past fields of tulips and rustic-looking restored windmills. Stop in a waterside village for steamed mussels or oysters on the half-shell! Lift a pint and watch the world go by!

Useful information

Download our region guide

Check out our region guideWe've produced a handy PDF guide for this region to give you an overview of all the stops and things to do along the waterway.

Download our region guide

The waters of Holland are vast, totalling roughly 269 waterways equalling 3,732 kilometres (2,319 miles)! The canals range from the enormous North Sea Canal that stretches 24 kilometres (15 miles) from the ocean to Amsterdam to quiet fingers of blue amidst lush green fields. More than 25 percent of Holland is below sea level, necessitating a network of dikes to keep the water out. The Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt rivers all flow through Holland, creating a beautiful delta.

An Amsterdam canal cruise unfolds along the north and west waters. As you travel, you’ll see a unique swath of pretty sand dunes fronting the sea, and, by way of more Amsterdam info, the Lakeland district has more connected inland lakes than found in any other nation in Europe! It’s an ideal playground for watersports, which are hugely popular! It’s great for canal boating too!

Amsterdam began in about 1200 as a fishing village, and the first dam was built at roughly the same time. By 1400, the town had become a major trading port. It continued to grow and in the 1700s Amsterdam served a major European financial hub. As part of its expansion, three concentric semicircular canals were built around the city centre. Narrow streets and smaller canals followed, transforming Amsterdam with more than 90 islands and 1,280 bridges!

Take a look at our waterway and lock closures page to find out if there are any scheduled cruising restrictions that will affect your vacation plans.

Navigating in Holland is easy and suitable for beginners.

Lock keepers operate all locks and some lifting bridges. Keep small change handy because sometimes there is a charge. Lock/bridge fee between €1 and €7. Depends on area and different per bridge/lock. Most bridges are free of charge.

 

Please be advised that you will need to call ahead to arrange access to certain locks & bridges in Holland. It’s therefore important that you have a mobile phone that works in Europe for the duration of your cruise. We recommend purchasing a European SIM card prior to your arrival at the base for check-in.

 

Opening hours: Locks are closed for lunch around 12:00-13:00 and for tea around 16:30-17:30.

 

Public holidays: Locks are closed on some public holidays.

In Hindeloopen area locks/bridges are open: 1st April to 31st October: Daily. Before 1st April: Closed on Sunday.

In Vinkeveen area locks/bridges are open: 15th April to 15th October: Daily. 1st - 15th April & 15th - 31st October: open with an appointment, lock closed on Sunday.

 

Closure dates: Please be aware about the lock closure dates by local authorities. During that day(s), you won’t be able to go through the locks. For more details and questions, please contact our sales team.

 

Hindeloopen area: Bridges/locks operate from 25th March to 31st October. Before 1st April, boating is possible in Friesland but locks/bridges are closed on Sundays. Vinkeveen area: Bridges/locks between Vinkeveen and Amsterdam operate from the 1st April. Closed on Sundays 1st - 15th April and 15th - 31st October.

You may moor alongside in the canals in ports. You’ll find marinas with shore power and other services. Small charges may apply.

To visit Amsterdam coming from the East (Hindeloopen), moor at Weesp and take a train to the city center. To visit Amsterdam coming from the South (Vinkeveen), best mooring option is ‘’Sixhaven’’. There is a ferry (free of charge, 24/7 service) that will take you to the central station. From here you can walk in about 10 minutes to the center of Amsterdam. The mooring costsin Sixhaven depends on the size of the boat. For a 15 meter boat you pay €30,60 a night.

To find out how to get to each of our bases in this boating region, as well as what facilities and amenities are available at each base or nearby, click on the relevant base below:

 
  • Rental of the boat and its onboard equipment
  • A fully equipped kitchen
  • Towels and linen for all passengers
  • A boat handling demontration prior to departure
  • Technical support
  • On-board maps and visitor information
  • Optional vacation extras
  • Boat damage waiver
  • Running costs (diesel, gas, engine wear and tear) - charged by the engine hour
  • Passage through locks (small fee applies - payable locally)
  • Travel to and from the base(s)
  • Waterside services if you use them (i.e. moorings where a charge is applicable, pump-out if needed, water, etc)
  • Cancellation plan & any travel/personal insurance
  • Food and drink

Interactive map of Holland, Amsterdam and Friesland

Le Boat base = Le Boat base  Point of interest = Point of interest

Great to see...

Situated in the south of Amsterdam, Vinekveen is the perfect place to start a cruise in the area. The Vinkeseense Plassen is an important recreational lake for many activities like swimming, diving & yachting.
Must see
Wobbly houses in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the largest city in Holland, will welcome you with all of its treasures, its monuments, and its history. Take a moment to visit this unique and eclectic city.
Must see
Edam cheeses

Edam is known worldwide thanks to the cheese of the same name which is produced here. Don't miss the cheese market in peak summer on Wednesday morning!

Take a stroll through Alkmaar's beautiful city centre to discover the many museums, shops and cafes that line the historic canal banks. Don't miss the famous cheese market, held every Friday morning from April to September. This market has been taking place for centuries, and is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Alkmaar. 

For anyone interested in Dutch history, the Zaanse Schans is a must see. Beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century buildings from all over the Zaanstreek region have been moved to this spot so you can experience first hand what life was like in old Holland. There are fully functioning windmills, bakeries and even a clog workshop - all with a story to tell. 

Must see
Keukenhof flower garden in Lisse

Lisse is known as Holland's most prominent flower-growing area. The amazing view of the surrounding flowered fields is enjoyed best in spring. From March to May, a tulipare flewring takes place at the famous Keukenhof, one of the largest flower gardens in the world! Lisse's dazzling castle is open throughout the year. 

The charming town of Leiden is made of small canals and its historical town center contains impressive buildings and churches that you won't want to miss. Why not spend some time walking in the numerous parks and visit the beautiful Hortus Botanicus.

Must see
Stacked Gouda cheeses at the cheese market

Famous thanks to the cheese of the same name, Gouda hosts a traditional cheese market every Thursday morning. The town also has a rich history and patrimoine and boasts one of the oldest city halls of the country. Don't miss the Saint John Church, famous for its stained glass windows.

The historic protected city center is famous for the 'Heksenwaag' (witches' scales) where people accused of witchcraft were offered a chance of proving their innocence, and it is most certainly worth a visit.

Situated along the Vecht River, Maarsen was a key place for the peat-bog in the Middle Ages. Years later, some rich familes of Amsterdam built some country houses nearby that are most certainly worth seeing. While the town is now more a suburb of Utrecht, you can still visit the historical village of Maarssen-Dorp in the East side of the town.

Must see
De Haar castle,Utrecht

Utrecht is Holland's fourth city and the old town has many attractions. Its famous medieval church, St. Martin's Cathedral, is half of its former self as a result of the terrible hurricane of 1674, but is still worth seeing. Canals, lined with terraces and greenery, give the city its charm; making it a lovely place to stop for a walk.

Weesp, a dynamic city, has many treasures for you. Downtown you will have the chance to see many landmarks, and also discover the local specialities such as chocolate, beer, and local jenever.

Muiden is a walled city with an impressive heritage. The Muiderslot Castle is a wonder of the Middle Ages that has survived throughout the centuries. Discover the numerous monuments and vestiges of Muiden, and enjoy its quietness.
Although Huizen is one of the biggest cities in the area, it is surrounded by beautiful countryside. You can visit the old Huizen, the picturesque fishing harbour, or go for a bike ride or a hike.

Elburg is a medieval town with a lot of hidden treasures. Walking in its winding streets, you will have the opportunity to see the huge old city gate, a vestige of the past. Elburg is a very friendly and dynamic town, especially during the Midweekfeesten.

A very charming town known as the 'Venice of the North', Giethoorn will enchant you with its beautiful riverside setting. It is a welcoming place and a joy to explore.

The Orchid Farm (Orchideeënhoeve) in Luttelgeest is a must see if passing this way. Beautiful orchids and butterflies provide a feast for the eyes – travel through the tropics in the Malaysian garden, the butterfly valley and the new Lory garden, full of colourful rainbow lorikeets. The kids can enjoy themselves in the mangrove playground.

Lemmer is a beautiful town, decorated by colorful houses along the canal banks. The city is well-known in Holland for its watersports.

Hindeloopen is on the shores of the IJsselmeer with a long maritime history, quirky cobbled streets and ranked as one of Europe’s most beautiful villages.

Workum is a beautiful little seaside city with numerous medieval monuments like the Gertrudis Church. You should also visit Werenfridus Church.

The rich history of Bolsward city can be admired through its dozens of national monuments such as the 17th century Bolsward Town Hall, a magnificent red-brick building, or the 15th century Martinikerk, the church, which is home to intricate wooden carvings and pulpit carved from a single oak tree. A ten-minute walk from the town centre is one of the country’s smallest breweries, producing ‘US Heit’ beers and several whiskies. Be sure to catch a tour (Thu to Sat - reserve online https://www.usheit.com ).

Must see
Sneek watergate

Sneek is a dynamic city. It has interesting architecture, especially the great gate of the waterport and the city hall, which is built in a rococo style. Also, visit the Roman Catholic Church, which is a national monument.

As the capital of Friesland, there are plenty of things to see and do in Leeuwarden. The Nature Museum is located in a 17th century building and is dedicated to exhibitions around the local nature and wildlife. Friesland’s breed of cattle is renowned across the world, and the Friday cattle market and annual show are still held regularly. The Oldehover Tower (which leans even more precariously than the Tower of Pisa) offers uninterrupted views of the local countryside, once you climb its 183 steps. At one time there were over 130 windmills standing in the city.

In the living room of a lovely Friesian canalside house is the world’s oldest functioning planetarium. This accurately moving model of the solar system was built between 1774 and 1781 by Eise Eisinga. Visit this wonderful museum, see Eisinga’s amazing creations and learn about the planets as well as the determination and brilliance of this amazing man. Franeker itself is a typical Friesland city with a handful of interesting museums, a city hall and an inviting array of cafés and restaurants

This quaint fishing town is known for the hundreds of sculptures dotted about the city. Make sure to visit the “Stone Man”, a two-headed statue created in 1774, then head to the beach across the road where you can swim, kitesurf or hire a canoe. The town remains a major port for shrimp and prawn fishing, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants where you can sample the daily catch. If you’re a nature lover, why not catch the ferry to the West Frisian Islands or cycle to the beautiful nature reserve, the Hegewiersterfjild, where you’ll discover various birds and fish?

Route suggestions

To help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have, here's a selection of routes to and from our bases in this region. You dont have to stop at all the places listed or follow the route exactly. So long as you return your boat to your end base by the date you've booked - you're free to enjoy your cruise however you like. For a comfortable pace, allowing you time to regularly stop and explore, we'd recommend an average of 2 - 4 hours cruising each day.

Please note: Any route suggestions and itineraries on the Le Boat website are examples only and any of the suggested potential routes, attractions, restaurants, towns, villages or sections of the waterway included in them may not always be open or accessible at time of cruising.

 = Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details.

Iconic Amsterdam town houses

The Little Amsterdam Short Break

Vinkeveen
Amsterdam
Muiden
Weesp
Amsterdam
Vinkeveen

13 hr(s) of cruising

86km 4 locks 3 nights

The Little Amsterdam Short Break

Vinkeveen RETURN via Amsterdam & Muiden

Vinkeveen RETURN via Amsterdam & Muiden

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

Set off from Vinkeveen Marina and its luxury amenities on your canal cruise through the peaceful suburbs of Amsterdam. You’ll head northward to picturesque Amstelven and its modern art museum before diving into the dynamic city of Amsterdam.

Vinkeveen area: Some navigation restrictions apply between mid-October and mid-April. Locks & bridges closed on Sundays - 24hrs advanced notice needed on all other days - special arrangements for getting in/out of Vinkeveen.

Please contact our sales team so we can assist you further.

Top highlights:

  • Swimming in the waters of Vinkeveen
  • Muiden's fort and castle
  • The vibrancy of Amsterdam - be sure to hire a bike and cycle along the city's beautiful canals!

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Vinkeveen: Situated in the south of Amsterdam, Vinkeveen is the perfect place to start a cruise in the area. The Vinkeveense Plassen is an important recreational lake for many activities like swimming, diving & yachting.
  • Muiden: Muiden is a walled city with an impressive heritage. The Muiderslot Castle is a wonder of the Middle Ages that has survived throughout the centuries. Discover the numerous monuments and vestiges of Muiden, and enjoy its quietness.
  • Weesp: Weesp, a dynamic city, has many treasures for you. Downtown, you will have the chance to see many landmarks, and also discover the local specialities such as chocolate, beer, and the jenever.
  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam, the largest city in Holland, will welcome you with all of its treasures, its monuments, and its history. Take a moment to visit this unique and eclectic city.

 

 

13 hr(s) of cruising

86km 4 locks 3 nights
Tulip markets of Amsterdam

The Amsterdam Cruise

Vinkeveen
Maarsen
Utrecht
Muiden
Weesp
Amsterdam
Vinkeveen

18 hr(s) of cruising

114km 4 locks 5 nights

The Amsterdam Cruise

Vinkeveen RETURN via Amsterdam & Utrecht

Vinkeveen RETURN via Amsterdam & Utrecht

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right 

Overview

Start your Holland river cruise with a bit of pampering at the resort amenities of Vinkeveen, and then it’s off on the River Vecht to cosmopolitan Amsterdam and historic Utrecht! You glide past the palatial riverfront homes and find yourself in more rural locales with traditional windmills and fields of colorful flowers.

Vinkeveen area: Some navigation restrictions apply between mid-October and mid-April. Locks & bridges closed on Sundays - 24hrs advanced notice needed on all other days - special arrangements for getting in/out of Vinkeveen.

Please contact our sales team so we can assist you further.

Top highlights:

  • The diverse culture and arts of medieval Utrecht
  • Muiden's fort and castle
  • The vibrancy of Amsterdam - Be sure to hire a bike and cycle along the city's beautiful canals!

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation

  • Vinkeveen: Situated in the south of Amsterdam, Vinkeveen is the perfect place to start a cruise in the area. The Vinkeveense Plassen is an important recreational lake for many activities like swimming, diving & yachting.
  • Maarssen: Situated along the Vecht River Maarssen was a key place for the peat-bog in the Middle Age. Later some rich familes of Amsterdam have built some country houses nearby that you could still see. The town is now more a suburb of Utrecht but you can still visit the historical village of Maarssen-Dorp in the East side of the town.
  • Utrecht: Utrecht is Holland's fourth city and the old section has many attractions. The famous medieval church, St. Martin's Cathedral, is half of its former self as a result of the terrible hurricane of 1674. Canals, lined with terraces and greenery, give the city its charm; it's a nice place for a walk.
  • Muiden: Muiden is a walled city with an impressive heritage. The Muiderslot Castle is a wonder of the Middle Ages that has survived throughout the centuries. Discover the numerous monuments and vestiges of Muiden, and enjoy its quietness.
  • Weesp: Weesp, a dynamic city, has many treasures for you. Downtown, you will have the chance to see many landmarks, and also discover the local specialities such as chocolate, beer, and the jenever.
  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam, the largest city in Holland, will welcome you with all of its treasures, its monuments, and its history. Take a moment to visit this unique and eclectic city.

18 hr(s) of cruising

114km 4 locks 5 nights
Cheese boutique in Edam

The Cheeses of Holland Cruise

Vinkeveen
Weesp
Amsterdam
Edam
Alkmaar
Zaanse Schans
Vinkeveen

24 hr(s) of cruising

158km 7 locks 7 nights

The Cheeses of Holland Cruise

Vinkeveen RETURN via Amsterdam, Edam & Alkmaar

Vinkeveen RETURN via Amsterdam, Edam & Alkmaar

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right.

Overview

This cruise will drive you to the culture of Holland. Starting with a tour of Amsterdam to admire its canals and enjoy its dynamic & cultural life before tasting the famous dutch cheeses. Edam and Alkmaar have a long history with cheese that you will discover with the handful of remaining cheese warehouses and their local cheese markets.

Vinkeveen area: Some navigation restrictions apply between mid-October and mid-April. Locks & bridges closed on Sundays - 24hrs advanced notice needed on all other days - special arrangements for getting in/out of Vinkeveen.

Please contact our sales team so we can assist you further.

Top highlights:

  • The fresh cheeses and markets of Edam
  • The cheeses and stained-glass window church of Gouda
  • The vibrancy of Amsterdam - Be sure to hire a bike and cycle along the city's beautiful canals
  • Windmills and green wooden houses of Zaanse Schans

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Vinkeveen: Situated in the south of Amsterdam, Vinkeveen is the perfect place to start a cruise in the area. The Vinkeveense Plassen is an important recreational lake for many activities like swimming, diving & yachting.
  • Weesp: Weesp, a dynamic city, has many treasures for you. Downtown, you will have the chance to see many landmarks, and also discover the local specialities such as chocolate, beer, and the jenever.
  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam, the largest city in Holland, will welcome you with all of its treasures, its monuments, and its history. Take a moment to visit this unique and eclectic city.
  • Edam: Edam is known worldwide thanks to the cheese with the same name. Don't miss the cheese market in peak summer on Wednesday morning!
  • Alkmaar: Take a stroll through Alkmaar's beautiful city centre to discover the many museums, shops and cafes that line the historic canal banks. Don't miss the famous cheese market, held every Friday morning from April to September - this market has been taking place for centuries, and is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Alkmaar. 
  • Zaanse Schans: For anyone interested in Dutch history the Zaanse Schans is a must see. Beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century buildings from all over the Zaanstreek region have been moved to this spot, so you can experience first hand what life was like in old Holland. There are fully functioning windmills, bakeries and even a clog workshop - all with a story to tell. 

24 hr(s) of cruising

158km 7 locks 7 nights
Cheese market in Gouda town square

The Gouda Short Break

Vinkeveen
Maarsen
Utrecht
Oudewater
Gouda
Weesp
Vinkeveen

22 hr(s) of cruising

123km 11 locks 5 nights

The Gouda Short Break

Vinkeveen RETURN via Utrecht & Gouda

Vinkeveen RETURN via Utrecht & Gouda

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

Following the River Vecht, this cruise will drive you to the historic and charming city of Utrecht. You'll then be able to reach the small town of Gouda, famous for its cheese and its traditional cheese market. Once there, admire the historic buildings of the town such the Saint John Church, famous for its stained glass windows.

Vinkeveen area: Some navigation restrictions apply between mid-October and mid-April. Locks & bridges closed on Sundays - 24hrs advanced notice needed on all other days - special arrangements for getting in/out of Vinkeveen.

Please contact our sales team so we can assist you further.

Top highlights:

  • The cheeses and stained-glass window church of Gouda
  • Walking through the extraordinary streets of Oudewater
  • Swimming in the waters of Vinkeveen
  • Tasting the chocolate, beer and jenever in Weesp

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Vinkeveen: Situated in the south of Amsterdam, Vinkeveen is the perfect place to start a cruise in the area. The Vinkeveense Plassen is an important recreational lake for many activities like swimming, diving & yachting.
  • Maarssen: Situated along the Vecht River Maarssen was a key place for the peat-bog in the Middle Age. Later some rich familes of Amsterdam have built some country houses nearby that you could still see. The town is now more a suburb of Utrecht but you can still visit the historical village of Maarssen-Dorp in the East side of the town.
  • Utrecht: Utrecht is Holland's fourth city and the old section has many attractions. The famous medieval church, St. Martin's Cathedral, is half of its former self as a result of the terrible hurricane of 1674. Canals, lined with terraces and greenery, give the city its charm; it's a nice place for a walk.
  • Oudewater: Spend some time to visit the historically protected city center and the famous 'Heksenwaag' (witches' scales) where people accused of witchcraft were offered a chance of proving their innocence.
  • Weesp: Weesp, a dynamic city, has many treasures for you. Downtown, you will have the chance to see many landmarks, and also discover the local specialities such as chocolate, beer, and the jenever.
  • Gouda: Famous thanks to the cheese of the same name, Gouda hosts a traditional cheese market every Thursday morning. The town also has a rich history and patrimoine and hosts one of the country's oldest city halls. Don't miss the Saint John Church famous for its stained glass windows.

 

22 hr(s) of cruising

123km 11 locks 5 nights
Discover the historic streets of Amsterdam by bike

The Dutch Capitals Cruise

Vinkeveen
Maarsen
Utrecht
Oudewater
Gouda
Leiden
Lisse
Amsterdam
Vinkeveen

30 hr(s) of cruising

180km 11 locks 7 nights

The Dutch Capitals Cruise

Vinkeveen RETURN via Utrecht, Lisse & Amsterdam

Vinkeveen RETURN via Utrecht, Lisse & Amsterdam

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

Discover the dutch way of life! Emerge yourself into some of the most historic & dynamic cities of Holland like Amsterdam, Utrecht or Den Haag through typical dutch villages like Delft. On the way you'll also admire the flowered fields near Lisse & Leiden and taste the famous cheese of Gouda. Don't miss the traditional cheese market there!

Vinkeveen area: Some navigation restrictions apply between mid-October and mid-April. Locks & bridges closed on Sundays - 24hrs advanced notice needed on all other days - special arrangements for getting in/out of Vinkeveen.

Top highlights:

  • Swimming in the waters of Vinkeveen 
  • The culture and arts of medieval Utrecht
  • Lisse's castle and flower gardens

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Vinkeveen: Situated in the south of Amsterdam, Vinkeveen is the perfect place to start a cruise in the area. The Vinkeveense Plassen is an important recreational lake for many activities like swimming, diving & yachting.
  • Maarssen: Situated along the Vecht River is Maarssen, a key place for the peat-bog in the Middle Age. Later some rich familes of Amsterdam have built some country houses nearby that you could still see. The town is now more a suburb of Utrecht but you can still visit the historical village of Maarssen-Dorp in the East side of the town.
  • Utrecht: Utrecht is Holland's fourth biggest city and the old section has many attractions. The famous medieval church, St. Martin's Cathedral, is half of its former self as a result of the terrible hurricane of 1674. Canals, lined with terraces and greenery, give the city its charm; it's a nice place for a walk.
  • Oudewater: Spend some time to visit the historic protected city center and the famous 'Heksenwaag' (witches' scales) where people accused of witchcraft were offered a chance of proving their innocence.
  • Gouda: Famous thanks to the cheese of the same name, Gouda hosts a traditional cheese market every Thursday morning. The town has a rich history and patrimoine and hosts one of the oldest city halls in the country. Don't miss the Saint John Church famous for its stained glass windows.
  • Leiden: The charming town of Leiden is made of small canals and tree-bordered. The historical town center contains imrpessive buildings and churches that you can't miss. Spend some time to walk in the numerous parks and to visit the Hortus Botanicus and other gardens of the town.
  • Lisse: Lisse is known as Holland's flower-growing area. Enjoy the amazing view of the surrounding flowered fields during spring. From March to May, visit the famous Keukenhof, one of the largest flower gardens in the world which also hosts an open Castle all year-round.
  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam, the largest city in Holland, will welcome you with all of its treasures, its monuments, and its history. Take a moment to visit this unique and eclectic city.

30 hr(s) of cruising

180km 11 locks 7 nights
Windmills in the tulip fields

The Friesland Short Break

Hindeloopen
Workum
Bolsward
Sneek
Hindeloopen

13 hr(s) of cruising

84km 0 locks 3 nights

The Friesland Short Break

 Hindeloopen RETURN via Sneek

Hindeloopen return via sneek

 

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

Cruise from our base in Hindeloopen, frequently ranked as one of the prettiest villages in Europe, to the city of Sneek. Sneek's centrepiece is it's beautiful Waterpoort Gate, the only of its kind in the Netherlands and all that remains of the 17th Century town walls. En-route you'll pass through Workum, the hometown of famous artist Jopie Huisman. Here you'll find a great little museum showcasing some of his work, as well a fine church on Workum's bustling main street.

Top highlights:

  • Strolling through the streets and sandy beaches of Hindeloopen
  • Sneek's monumental Roman Catholic Church
  • One of Holland's smallest breweries in Bolsward

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:

  • Hindeloopen: Hindeloopen is a picturesque village full of Dutch character. Its quirky cobbled streets, wooden bridges and well-preserved houses give it a unique identity and a rich heritage that you can discover by walking to its old centre, around the traditional harbor and along the nearby sandy beaches.
  • Workum: Workum is a beautiful little seaside city with numerous medieval monuments like the Gertrudis church. You should also visit Werenfridus Church.
  • Bolsward: The rich history of Bolsward city can be admired through its dozens of national monuments such as the 17th century Bolsward Town Hall, a magnificent red-brick building, or the 15th century Martinikerk, the church, which is home to intricate wooden carvings and pulpit carved from a single oak tree. A ten-minute walk from the town centre is one of the country’s smallest breweries, producing ‘US Heit’ beers and several whiskies. Be sure to catch a tour (Thu to Sat - reserve online www.usheit.com).
  • Sneek: Sneek is a dynamic city in the area. It has interesting architecture, especially the great gate of the waterport and the city hall, which is built in a rococo style. Also, visit the Roman Catholic Church, which is a national monument.

13 hr(s) of cruising

84km 0 locks 3 nights
Windsurfing on Workum beach

The Lakeland Cruise

Hindeloopen
Workum
Sneek
Bolsward
Leeuwarden
Franeker
Harlingen
Hindeloopen

29 hr(s) of cruising

200km 4 locks 7 nights

The Lakeland Cruise

Hindeloopen RETURN via Harlingen

Hindeloopen return via Harlingen

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

You’re in the heart of the Lakelands region, a highlight of fabulous Holland river cruises! For lunch it’s a stop at a traditional fishing village to enjoy a pint of Grolsch and oysters on the half-shell, and later you take time for some sightseeing in beautiful Lemmer. The warm sun relaxes you as you kayak in scenic Grou.

Top highlights:

  • Strolling through the streets and sandy beaches of Hindeloopen
  • Sneek's monumental Roman Catholic Church
  • Leeuwarden's very own Pisa tower
  • Canoeing in the charming town of Grouw

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Hindeloopen: Hindeloopen is a picturesque village full of Dutch character. Its quirky cobbled streets, wooden bridges & well-preserved houses give it a unique identity and a rich heritage that you can discover by walking to its old centre, around the traditional harbor and along the nearby sandy beaches.
  • Workum: Workum is a beautiful little seaside city with numerous medieval monuments like the Gertrudis church. You should also visit Werenfridus Church.
  • Bolsward: The rich history of Bolsward city can be admired through its dozens of national monuments such as the 17th century Bolsward Town Hall, a magnificent red-brick building, or the 15th century Martinikerk, the church, which is home to intricate wooden carvings and pulpit carved from a single oak tree. A ten-minute walk from the town center is one of the country’s smallest breweries, producing ‘US Heit’ beers and several whiskies. Be sure to catch a tour (Thu to Sat - reserve online www.usheit.com).
  • Sneek: Sneek is a dynamic city in the area. It has interesting architecture, especially the great gate of the waterport and the city hall, which is built in a rococo style. Also, visit the Roman Catholic Church, which is a national monument.
  • Leeuwarden: As the capital of Friesland, there are plenty of things to see and do in Leeuwarden. The Nature Museum is located in a 17th century building and is dedicated to exhibitions around the local nature and wildlife. Friesland’s breed of cattle is renowned across the world, and the Friday cattle market and annual show are still held regularly. The Oldehover Tower (which leans even more precariously than the Tower of Pisa) offers uninterrupted views of the local countryside, once you climb its 183 steps. At one time there were over 130 windmills standing in the city.
  • Franeker: In the living room of a lovely Friesian canalside house is the world’s oldest functioning planetarium. This accurately moving model of the solar system was built between 1774 and 1781 by Eise Eisinga. Visit this wonderful museum, see Eisinga’s amazing creations and learn about the planets as well as the determination and brilliance of this amazing man. Franeker itself is a typical Friesland city with a handful of interesting museums, a city hall and an inviting array of cafés and restaurants
  • Harlingen: This quaint fishing town is known for the hundreds of sculptures dotted about the city. Make sure to visit the “Stone Man”, a two-headed statue created in 1774, then head to the beach across the road where you can swim, kitesurf or hire a canoe. The town remains a major port for shrimp and prawn fishing, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants where you can sample the daily catch. If you’re a nature lover, why not catch the ferry to the West Friesian Islands or cycle to the beautiful nature reserve, the Hegewiersterfjild, where you’ll discover various birds and fish.

29 hr(s) of cruising

200km 4 locks 7 nights

Our Feefo reviews

Feefo is an independent and impartial review service that requests reviews directly from those who have been on a Le Boat vacation. Below you can read what our past customers think about their Le Boat experience, and trust that what you read is unfiltered, unedited and uncensored.

Added on 23 August 2023

Jim & Yvonne Bultje said

The people in the office at both end were very helpful in the process of renting the boat. They made sure we understood the boat and our maps before they sent us on our way. LeBoat provided us with a beautiful boat to travel through the waterways in Holland. The boat ran well and was easy to operate. The instructions given were thorough, with a lot of helpful tips. The boat is well stocked. Easy check-in and check-out.
READ MORE
Hi Jim, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time on your Le Boat experience, and that everything was to your liking. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Le Boat
Vinkeveen - Hindeloopen
Royal Mystique A
Added on 29 April 2023

Hugh Gregg said

Even though our reserved boat had mechanical issues, we were well accommodated. The check in and out were smooth. The base was very helpful in telling us where we could do our provisioning. There are so many options of where to go from this base that we can come back many times. The staff were very helpful.
READ MORE
Good day Hugh, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time on your Le Boat experience, even though you experienced some mechanical issues. We hope that those issue were sorted out, and that our staff were able to assist. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards, Marianne from Le Boat
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Horizon 2
Added on 22 April 2023

Dariusz said

Bardzo sympatyczna i pomocna Załoga. Błyskawiczne załatwienie formalności przy odbiorze jachtu i jeszcze szybsze przy zdawaniu. Bardzo sympatyczna i pomocna Załoga. Błyskawiczne załatwienie formalności przy przejmowaniu jachtu i jeszcze szybsze przy zdawaniu.
READ MORE
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Grand Classique
Added on 6 July 2022

A customer said

Very thoughtful and thorough. Very accommodating. Great boats and great base facilities. Great boat. Great base facilities. Great briefing with lots of tips
READ MORE
Thank you for taking the time to leave a 5-star review on your recent boating holiday in The Netherlands. We’re so pleased that you had such a wonderful time exploring the waterways, and that you enjoyed your boat and our base facilities. We can’t wait to welcome you on board again soon.
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Horizon 2
Added on 25 April 2022

A customer said

Our trip was canceled twice because of Covid, and there was no issues at all. Everything was as expected and an amazing experience. the boat was in a good condition and did not give us any problems. Vinkeveen is a nice start to explore Southern Holland but not much to do in this small town. Staff at the base was very helpful and even help with arranging transport from the base.
READ MORE
Good Evening, Thank you so much for taking the time to provide a 5-star review of your boating holiday in Vinkeveen! We are so happy to hear that you finally made it on your holiday after COVID cancellations and that we could provide you with a wonderful experience. I will let our team in Vinkeveen know that they did an excellent job! We look forward to welcoming you onboard again in the future! All the Best, The Le Boat Team
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Vision 3
Added on 22 April 2022

Kami Larson said

Our first experience using Le Boat went smoothly because of the overview beforehand and the attention by the staff to every detail.
READ MORE
Good day Kami, Thank you for taking the time to provide a five-star review of your boating holiday in Holland. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service and we are delighted to hear that the team in Vinkeveen went above and beyond your expectations! We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon. Best, The Le Boat Team
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Classique Star
Added on 21 July 2021

Dale Newnham said

We had a wonderful time cruising Friesland. Anita and her Le Boat team were friendly and professional. Any requests we made were promptly met with a smile which really made our holiday! Anita and her team made us feel really welcome and were very responsive to our requests. The boat was perfect for our cruise.
READ MORE
Hi Dale, Thank you for taking the time to provide a five star review of your boating holiday in Holland, Amsterdam and Friesland. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service and we are delighted to hear that you received just that from the team in Hindeloopen. We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon. The Le Boat Team
Hindeloopen - Hindeloopen
Cirrus B
Added on 10 July 2021

Arthur Evans said

There was some confusion about my reservation, but the booking department and the local agents in Vinkeveen sprang into action and salvaged my vacation! Do helped us with a perfect 10 day itinerary, hitting all the quaint towns and villages around Amsterdam. One of the marinas was a bit run down, but overall the stops were amazing.
READ MORE
Hi Arthur, Thank you for taking the time to provide a review of your boating holiday in Amsterdam and Friesland. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service and we are delighted to hear that you received just that from the team in Vinkeveen. We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon. The Le Boat Team
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Horizon 5
Added on 25 September 2019

A customer said

Excellent service. The entire experience was easy and followed through as expected with no surprises. Great canal maps and information to help us have a great trip. Excellent. No problems with the boat. Only complaint was we thought we could drive from the bottom steering station and could not. We couldn't make it work and there were no instructions available to get the boat to work from below. This should be made more clear in the boat description.
READ MORE
Vinkeveen - Hindeloopen
Clipper
Added on 16 September 2019

Scott Weber said

The Vinkeveen base was very pleasant to work with unpon check in/check out. Recommendation for future cruisers... Have a cell phone that can be used for making phone calls in the Netherlands area ( very helpful for getting bridges and locks to open ) and data ( Extreemly helpful for navigation ) Download Nautical Maps ( free 7 day trial ) Gives you detailed imformation needed on navigation and route during your travels. We were supplied with Charts of the area, however they are difficult to read especially after several trips with prior cruisers. We did encounter a few mecanical issues which were not the fault of us or the base. The mechanic was prompt, friendly, and helpful. Trying to do research on routs and towns prior to departure was very difficult as there is not a lot of information on the internet and the cruising guides that are available for purchase were less than helpful. I highly recommend this area for cruising. We have cruised the North and now the South of the Netherlands. Both were delightful. Small towns, countryside and most of the cruising on small canals. I would recommend either location.
READ MORE
Vinkeveen - Vinkeveen
Vision 3