Sail yourself or with a skipper: what suits your day out?

The sunlight dances across the surface of the canal, casting playful reflections on the water as you glide through the heart of Amsterdam. Historic canal houses and charming bridges drift by, each turn revealing another postcard-perfect view. The soft ripple of the water and the gentle sway of the boat set the tone for a day unlike any other—peaceful, picturesque, and completely your own. So, how would you like to enjoy this unforgettable moment? Fancy taking the wheel yourself in one of our elegant boats, or would you rather sit back, relax and let one of our friendly skippers guide you through the city in style? Let’s explore your options and help you choose your perfect canal experience.

Sailing yourself: freedom on the water

The moment you push off from the quay, the city seems to melt into the background. The traffic, the noise, the rush: suddenly it all feels far away. It’s just you, your crew, the calm ripple of the water, and that unmistakable sense of freedom. Taking the helm of your own boat feels like Amsterdam is yours for the day, waiting to be explored at your pace. At Mokumboot, you can rent a whisper-quiet electric boat for up to 6 people. The best part? You don’t need to have a licence needed, no fuss. Simply hop aboard and start your adventure.

Pack a cool box with your favourite drinks and snacks, soak in the atmosphere, and cruise wherever the mood takes you. Fancy a peaceful escape to the leafy Plantage area? Or does the lively charm of the Jordaan call your name? The beauty of it all is that you decide: your route, your rhythm, your stops. While music isn’t allowed on board, the energy of the canals and the company of your friends provide all the vibes you need. That sense of freedom and ease is exactly why self-skippered sailing with Mokumboot is a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Advantages of sailing yourself

Complete freedom in route and pace
Ideal for small groups of up to 6 people
No licence or experience required
Picnics on board are allowed
Perfect for sunny, spontaneous days

Sailing with a skipper: relaxed enjoyment

“Fancy setting sail today?” It’s less a question, more a gentle invitation to leave the busy city behind and simply enjoy the ride. No maps, no steering, no planning required. Just settle in, breathe out, and let the water do the work. When you step aboard one of our classic tugboats or open boats with a skipper, everything is taken care of. Departing just moments from Central Station, you’ll be welcomed by your skipper and be whisked away through the most enchanting stretches of Amsterdam’s canals.

Whether you join a shared cruise or prefer to charter the boat with your own, private group, you’re in excellent hands. Our skippers aren’t just boat captains—they’re local experts with a feel for the city’s rhythm. They know the quiet corners and the scenic routes, the golden light that dances off the water, and the stories hidden behind every bridge and façade. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the journey.

Advantages of sailing with a skipper

Fully catered and carefree
Shared or private options available
Skippers take care of the most beautiful route
Various packages available
Comfortable, covered, and heated boats

When is self-guided sailing best?

Two friends glide through the canals, sharing jokes and soaking up the sunshine. A basket packed with snacks sits between them, and there’s no schedule to follow just an open afternoon and the city unfolding at their pace. This is what true freedom on the water feels like. No rush, no noise, no obligations. Just space to relax, explore and enjoy spontaneous moments. Whether you’re out with family, your partner, or a few close friends, renting your own boat is the perfect way to discover Amsterdam on your terms.

Even if you’ve strolled these streets before, seeing the city from the water offers something entirely different. Behind the wheel of your own electric boat, every canal becomes a new path to explore. With Mokumboot, you don’t just tour the city: you create your own story, one turn at a time.

Sailing yourself is ideal for

Romantic trips for two
Quality time with family or friends
Adventurous types who like to explore on their own
People who want to be flexible in terms of time and route

When is sailing with a skipper the right choice?

Laughter echoes across the water as glasses meet in a cheerful toast. A quiet hum of celebration fills the air while your boat drifts effortlessly beneath a historic bridge. At the helm, the skipper handles everything with ease, leaving you free to focus on the moment. Whether you’re marking a birthday, hosting a get-together, or gathering with a larger group, sailing with a skipper is the stress-free way to celebrate. No planning, no navigating.

It’s also the ideal choice for visitors discovering the city for the first time. Our skippers know every twist and turn of the canals, and they love sharing the stories behind them. With each anecdote, Amsterdam comes alive in a way that guidebooks never could. All you must do is sit back, relax, and let the city reveal itself.

Boating with a skipper is ideal for

Parties, anniversaries or business outings
First visit to Amsterdam
Large groups looking for comfort and convenience

Which option suits you best?

There’s no right or wrong way to discover Amsterdam from the water: only the choice that fits your mood. Fancy setting your own course, taking it slow, and enjoying the quiet thrill of steering yourself? Then one of our self-drive boats is your perfect match. Prefer to lean back, take in the sights, and hear the stories that bring the city to life? A relaxed cruise with one of our expert skippers offers all the comfort and charm you could wish for.

Whichever you choose, one thing stays the same: at Mokumboot, it’s all about the experience. We invite you to switch off, soak it all in, and enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam from the best perspective there is.