Rent Your Boat in the Netherlands

An interactive guide to the legal requirements for operating as a private skipper on Dutch waters.

Your Journey Starts Here

This interactive checklist provides a high-level overview of the main requirements. Check them off as you learn more in the detailed sections below. It's a great way to track your progress and ensure you haven't missed any crucial steps.

Skipper's Requirements

As the skipper, you are legally responsible for the vessel and everyone on board. The primary requirement concerns having the correct navigation license (Vaarbewijs). This flowchart helps you determine what you need. Click on any box to see more details.

Which License Do I Need?

Start Here: Your Boat

Is your boat < 15 meters long AND slower than 20 km/h?

YES

No License Required

(But strongly recommended!)

NO

Klein Vaarbewijs 1 (KVB1)

Required

Will you navigate on large open waters?

(Waddenzee, Oosterschelde, Westerschelde, Eems, Dollard, IJsselmeer, IJmeer & Markermeer)

NO

KVB1 is sufficient

YES

Klein Vaarbewijs 2 (KVB2)

Required

Boat's Requirements

Your vessel must be safe and properly equipped. The Binnenvaartpolitiereglement (BPR) outlines the mandatory safety equipment. This diagram shows the key items. Hover over the glowing points for more information on each piece of gear.

Life Jackets/Buoys: One for each person on board. Must be easily accessible.
Fire Extinguisher: At least one 2kg powder or foam extinguisher, checked and approved.
Anchor: A suitable anchor with enough line or chain for the waters you navigate.
Navigation Lights: Required for operation between sunset and sunrise or in poor visibility.
First-Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit is highly recommended though not always mandatory for small private boats.
Horn/Sound Device: A horn or other device capable of producing a prolonged blast.

Mandatory for 'Snelle Motorboten' (>20 km/h)

  • Registration certificate (Registratiebewijs)
  • Registration numbers displayed on the hull
  • Kill switch (dodemansknop)
  • Approved fire extinguisher(s)

Highly Recommended for All Boats

  • First-aid kit
  • Flares
  • VHF Radio (Marifoon)
  • Bilge pump
  • Paddles or oars

Business & Financials

Operating commercially means you're running a business. This involves registering your activity, handling taxes, and ensuring you have the right insurance. These steps are non-negotiable and protect both you and your clients.

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1. Business Registration (KvK)

You must register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel - KvK). This formalizes your activity and is required for tax purposes. You'll typically register as a sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak).

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2. Taxes (BTW/VAT)

Your services are subject to BTW (Value Added Tax). The reduced rate of 9% typically applies to passenger transport. You must charge this to your customers, declare it quarterly, and keep meticulous records.

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3. Commercial Insurance

Your standard private boat insurance is NOT sufficient. You need a commercial liability insurance (bedrijfsaansprakelijkheidsverzekering) that covers paying passengers. This is crucial for financial protection.

BTW Calculation Example

See how the 9% BTW works. Enter a price for a boat trip to see the breakdown.

€
Enter a price and click calculate.

Key Regulations on the Water

As a skipper, you are expected to be a master of the rules. Here's a quick summary of some of the most important regulations from the BPR. Knowing and following these rules ensures safety for everyone.

Alcohol Limit

The legal blood alcohol limit on the water is 0.5‰, the same as for driving a car. Zero tolerance is the safest policy.

Priority Rules

Commercial vessels (e.g., ferries, cargo ships) generally have priority. On canals, the rule is "keep to the starboard (right) side".

Speed Limits

Speed limits are common, especially near cities, locks, and nature reserves. They are clearly marked. Creating a wake (hekgolf) can also be prohibited.

Bridge & Lock Etiquette

Recreational boats usually wait for commercial traffic. Follow the light signals and instructions from the lock or bridge keeper.

Music & Nuisance

You are responsible for your passengers. Loud music and other forms of nuisance are not permitted and can result in fines.

Number of Passengers

Do not exceed the maximum number of passengers your boat is designed for, as indicated on the CE marking or builder's plate.