Key rules for handling a boat in Friesland

Familieboten stands for safety and comfort. We hire out boats that don't require a boating licence. That means they meet a maximum size and speed. At the same time, we expect hirers to treat the boat, the passengers and everyone else on the water responsibly and safely.

  Tip: “Varen doe je Samen” is the knowledge centre for recreational and commercial boating. Here you'll find everything about your boating equipment, trip preparation and safety on the water. We'll give you a short summary.

A number of rules apply to handling a boat in Friesland. When you book a boating holiday with Familieboten.nl, you hire a boat from an independent or professional owner. All owners love to share the joy of boating and are proud of their boat. Safety comes first for them too. They will give you an explanation before you set off, so that you can head out safely.

8 tips and rules for handling a boat in Friesland:

1. Check with the owner that the boat is technically sound and the tanks are full. Know where the life jackets are, how to shut off the gas tank, and go over any special points.

2. Download the Waterkaarten app on your phone or tablet. It helps you plan your routes properly and shows you what to expect along the way. The app clearly shows the height of the bridges, how deep the water is and where you can moor safely.

3. Always check the weather forecast before you leave. Don't go out in thunderstorms, gales or rain. Also take the weather into account when planning your route; after all, you'll want to be back on time for the next hirer. 

4. Get to know the boating rules beforehand. Look around carefully and make sure you are visible. Just as in a car, distraction is dangerous. Besides, looking around you while underway is wonderfully relaxing. You don't have to do a thing. 

5. Keep a clear course: stay to the right as much as possible, in the channel, and don't make unexpected manoeuvres. Keep a close eye on sailing boats, especially outside the channel, where they always have right of way. They may make an unexpected manoeuvre every now and then, because the wind can be unpredictable.

6. Be patient at bridges and locks; you're on holiday, after all. Whoever has been waiting longest goes through first. Don't push in, and moor calmly at the waiting jetty. In the lock you can moor on either side, so always hang out the fenders on both sides.

7. Don't drink and drive your boat. As on the road, the legal limit is 0.5 per mille. Find a lovely mooring spot in good time and enjoy a cold beer there, wonderful after a day on the water.

8. Make contact; if you can see the skipper, he can see you. So make sure you stay out of the blind spot of cargo ships, and say hello to one another.