Tour boat with open windows sailing along a canal in Giethoorn past a thatched farmhouse

Boating

Boat tours in Giethoorn
The Venice of the North from the water

Giethoorn is known for its canals, bridges and nature. On a boat tour in Giethoorn you explore the village: an experienced skipper sails you around and tells you about Giethoorn. Below are the boat tour options, so you can choose the trip that suits your visit.

Practical information

  • All boat tours run in covered, comfortable boats with windows that can be opened fully in fine weather.
  • The boats are easily accessible for people with limited mobility.
  • You may bring your dog on the boat tour.
  • To be sure of a place, a guaranteed sailing and the right boarding point, it is advisable to book in advance.

Boat tour of Giethoorn (1 hour)

The classic 1-hour boat tour takes you through the historic village and across the Bovenwiede lake. Along the way you hear about the history and sights of Giethoorn.

  • Suitable for all ages.
  • View of the village and the lake.
  • Covered boat with windows that can be opened in fine weather.

Book your place in advance:

Weerribben-Wieden boat tour (2 hours)

If you want to enjoy the surroundings for longer, the 2-hour boat tour through Weerribben-Wieden National Park is a good choice. This trip takes you through the village, across the lake and deep into the nature reserve, where you have a chance to spot special birds and other animals.

  • For nature lovers.
  • Quiet and extended boat trip.
  • A chance to see special flora and fauna.

Book in advance:

Giethoorn boat tour with a stop (for groups of 10 or more)

Specially for larger groups there is the boat tour with a stop in the centre. On this trip you first sail for 1 hour through Giethoorn and across the lake, after which you have a 1-hour break in the village. This gives you time to walk around, visit a museum or browse one of the shops in Giethoorn.

  • For groups and company outings.
  • Time for a break in the village.
  • Can be planned to measure as you wish.

Ask about the options and book in advance.

Boat with skipper and Dutch flag sailing past thatched houses in Giethoorn
Sailing past the thatched houses of Giethoorn.

Choose the boat tour that suits you. If you would rather have a different boat tour, such as a luxury or VIP boat tour, take a look here.

Book your boat tour and sail through the Venice of the North.

Also read

Giethoorn from the water

See all the ways to go boating: boat tours, whisper boats, sloops and punters.

Go to Boating in Giethoorn

Frequently asked questions

What boat tour options does Giethoorn.com offer for exploring the village and its surroundings?

There are three boat tours through the ‘Venice of the North’. The classic 1-hour boat tour goes through the historic village and across the Bovenwiede lake and suits all ages. The 2-hour trip also goes through Weerribben-Wieden National Park, where you can see special plants and animals. Groups of 10 or more can book a boat tour with a stop in the village, which can be planned as you wish.

Are the boats for the Giethoorn.com boat tours accessible and are pets welcome?

Yes. The tour boats are easily accessible for people with limited mobility. All trips run in covered boats whose windows can be opened fully in fine weather. And your dog may come on board.

Why is it advisable to book a Giethoorn.com boat tour in advance?

Then you are sure of a place and that the sailing goes ahead on your day and time. You also know straight away what the right boarding point is, which is especially handy in busy periods. After booking online you receive a confirmation with all the details straight away. With a group you can also make tailor-made arrangements.

How can I get the most out of Giethoorn if I want to see both the nature and the village?

Choose the 2-hour boat tour: it goes through the village and then deep into Weerribben-Wieden National Park. Afterwards, allow some time to explore the village on foot.

What duration is recommended for a boat tour to get to know Giethoorn well?

That depends on what you want to see. The classic 1-hour boat tour shows you the historic village and the lake, with an explanation of the sights. If you also want to go into the nature, choose the 2-hour boat tour through Weerribben-Wieden National Park. There you have a better chance of seeing special animals.

More inspiration for your visit

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