Which boarding point is best suited to your boat trip in Amsterdam?
You’ve made up your mind: you’re going to hire a boat in Amsterdam. Great idea.
Sailing through the canals yourself gives you a real sense of freedom. You set your own pace, choose your own route and moor wherever you like. But before you set off, there’s one choice that has more impact than you might think: where do you board? We have several boarding locations, and they differ considerably from one another. Not only in terms of surroundings, but also in terms of how busy it is, the atmosphere and how relaxed your trip will be. The right spot ensures that your trip fits exactly what you’re looking for.
We’ll help you choose the boarding point that best suits your cruise.
Amsterdam City Centre (Nassaukade 351)
If you choose the city centre, you’re choosing instant results. Within minutes you’ll be on the most famous canals and won’t need to spend time navigating your way there. That makes this location particularly ideal if you only have a few hours and want to see as much as possible.
From Nassaukade, you can sail straight towards the Jordaan, the Anne Frank House and the Prinsengracht. In no time at all, you’ll be surrounded by historic buildings, bridges and lively quays.
It’s easily accessible by public transport, but getting there by car is trickier. Parking is limited and often expensive, so it’s best to come by train, tram or bike.
As you’ll find yourself immediately in narrow canals with heavy traffic, this location does require a bit more attention whilst sailing. On the other hand, you won’t have to search for atmosphere or sights for a moment.
Amsterdam De Pijp (Jozef Israëlskade)
De Pijp is a smart choice if you’re torn between hustle and bustle and peace and quiet. You board at Jozef Israëlskade, near the Okura Hotel, and are on the Amstel within a few minutes.
From here, you can easily sail towards the Magere Brug and then cross over to the canals. This allows you to ease into your trip, rather than being thrown straight into the thick of it.
The location is easily accessible by public transport and is situated in a lively neighbourhood with plenty of places to eat and drink. This also makes it an attractive option to combine your boat trip with lunch or drinks in the area.
Amsterdam Amstel (Mauritskade 1-E)
From this location, it’s all about flexibility whilst sailing. You’re close to the Amstel, but also to the routes leading to the city centre, so you can head in multiple directions.
If you sail up the Amstel, you’ll immediately have more space and a better view, with the Magere Brug as a landmark. If you head towards the canals, you’ll naturally find yourself in the livelier part of the city.
The location is conveniently situated near Wibautstraat and is easily accessible by both car and public transport, making it practical if you’re meeting up with a group.
Amsterdam East (Mauritskade 65)
East is the best choice if you want to start off in a relaxed way without any hassle. This boarding point is close to Amsterdam Muiderpoort station and is therefore easily accessible. If you’re coming by car, you can often park on the quay.
Once on the water, you’ll notice the difference straight away. It’s quieter, less busy and you’ll encounter less heavy boat traffic. This allows you to get used to sailing at your own pace. Here, you can sail towards the Amstel or stay in the quieter waters of Oost, where you’ll see a more local side of the city.
Choose this location if you’re sailing for the first time, are with children, or simply want to start off in a relaxed way without the hustle and bustle.
Amsterdam RAI (Wielingenstraat 9)
At the RAI, you’ll start your trip in a peaceful and green setting. You’ll sail past Beatrixpark and won’t be right in the middle of the busy boat traffic.
The location is easily accessible and lies just outside the city centre, ensuring a relaxed start right from the off. From here, you can head towards the Amstel and later venture into the city centre. This allows you to decide for yourself how busy you want it to be.
Choose this location if you want a quiet start and wish to combine sailing with a green setting, without immediately heading into the hustle and bustle.
Amsterdam Weesper (Schollenbrugstraat 1)
Weesper is particularly convenient. You’re right next to Amsterdam Amstel station, making it one of the most accessible boarding points. This makes it ideal if you’re meeting up with a group. From here, you can quickly head out onto the Amstel, where you’ll have more space and pass famous landmarks such as the Magere Brug.
In the surrounding area, you’ll find cafés such as Hesp and Weesper, making it easy to combine your boat trip with a drink before or after.
Choose this departure point if you want a practical and accessible start, without compromising on a beautiful route.
Amsterdam Zuid (Stadionkade 73b)
Zuid is the right choice if you mainly want to relax and avoid the hustle and bustle. From Stadionkade, you can sail towards the Olympic Stadium and the wider waters in this part of the city. The area feels more spacious and less touristy, ensuring a peaceful start to your trip. Accessibility is good and parking is often easier here than in the city centre.
Choose this departure point if you mainly want to enjoy the boating itself and have less interest in Amsterdam’s busiest highlights.
Which boarding location should you choose?
The choice becomes easier if you consider what matters most to you. If you want to see as much as possible in a short time, the city centre is the best fit.
If you’re looking for a quiet start with the option to head into the city later, you’ll soon find yourself at De Pijp or the Amstel. If you mainly want to relax and sail without the crowds, then Oost, RAI or Zuid are better choices. And if convenience and accessibility are your top priorities, Weesper is often the most practical option.
Practical tips before you set off
Good preparation makes your boat trip much more relaxing.
- Book in good time, especially in fine weather
- Arrive a little early so you can board at your leisure
- Choose your time carefully
- Bring food and drink with you
- Check the weather beforehand
Ready to take to the water?
The boarding location you choose determines how your trip begins and feels. Peaceful, lively or simply free. It all starts with that first choice. Whatever you choose, once on the water, everything slows down naturally. Fancy a go at sailing yourself? Explore all the options and choose your ideal departure point.
