NL
A boat trip through Dutch nature reserves combines relaxation with discovery and offers families a unique way to experience nature. From the water you discover hidden creeks, spot wild animals and experience the peace of willow woods and lakes, while children are actively involved in sailing and steering. Read on and find out how to plan a water adventure that is suitable for all ages.
Why boat trips are ideal for families
Boating with children stimulates curiosity and offers a different view of familiar landscapes. From the water you can see beavers, water birds and sometimes even seals, which is educational and directly appeals to children’s natural curiosity. The activity combines movement with calm: children can actively help with steering or sailing, but also simply enjoy the view.
An additional advantage is the flexibility. You choose the duration of the trip yourself, from a short 30-minute cruise to a longer expedition of several hours. This makes boat trips suitable for toddlers who are easily distracted, as well as for teenagers who are looking for more excitement. For families who consciously opt for nature holidays with children, boating offers a direct connection with the surroundings without long walks or strenuous effort.
A boat trip is a relaxed alternative to busy attractions. The calm on the water creates space for conversations and shared observations, which strengthens family bonds. Children see it as a little adventure, especially when they are allowed to take the helm themselves or look out for wild animals.
‘ Each area has its own character, from calm creeks to open lakes with more wind. ’
Best nature areas for boat trips with children
The Netherlands has various water-rich nature areas that are accessible to families. Each area has its own character, from calm creeks to open lakes with more wind.
De Biesbosch National Park
De Biesbosch is known for its willow woods and wide creeks. Here you sail through a maze of waterways and spot beavers, cormorants and herons. Many operators organise guided cruises, during which children learn about the tides and biodiversity. The routes are calm and suitable for young children. You can combine the boat trip with walks along boardwalk trails or a visit to a visitor centre.
The Naardermeer
The Naardermeer is one of the oldest nature reserves in the Netherlands. The area offers cruises through reed marshes and open lakes. It is rich in birds, including bitterns and cormorants. The trips are educational and often accompanied by a nature guide. The guide explains which species you are seeing. The water is calm, which makes it suitable for families with young children.
De Wieden and Weerribben
This extensive marshland in Overijssel consists of small lakes and reed beds. You will also find narrow boating routes. You can hire a whisper boat or electric sloop and determine your own route. The area is car-free and quiet. This creates a relaxed experience. Children enjoy the variety between open water and small canals. There are several embarkation points and you can stop along the way at play areas and picnic spots.
Giethoorn
Giethoorn is known as the Venice of the Netherlands, with its characteristic canals and little bridges. You hire a whisper boat and sail between thatched roofs and flower-filled gardens. It is not a wild nature reserve, but it does offer a picturesque setting that appeals to children. The routes are short and easy to follow, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
Types of boat trips and water outings
You can explore the water in different ways. The choice depends on the age of your children. Your desired activity level also plays a role.
- Guided cruises: Structured trips with a guide, often with educational information about nature and animals. Suitable for young children and families who do not want to steer a boat themselves.
- Hiring a sloop or whisper boat: You sail yourself in an electric boat and decide your own route and stops. This gives you the freedom to pause at play areas or picnic spots. Suitable for adventurous families with children from about 4 years old.
- Canoe or SUP: More active and suitable for older children who enjoy moving about. You sail in smaller craft through narrow waterways and experience nature up close.
- Sailing trips: For families with older children who want to learn to sail. These trips often take place on Lake IJsselmeer or larger lakes and combine physical activity with experiencing nature.
- Amphibious bus: A vehicle that drives both on land and in water, often used in cities such as Rotterdam and Amsterdam. This is more of an attraction than a nature trip, but it does appeal to young children because of the unique concept.
Safety and practical preparation
Boating with children requires good preparation, especially when it comes to safety and comfort.
Life jackets and safety
All passengers, including children, must wear a suitable life jacket. When hiring or booking, ask about the availability of children’s sizes. Check that the jacket fastens properly and is not too loose. For toddlers and babies there are special buoyancy aids with a collar that keeps the head above water.
Are you sailing with young children? Then choose trips on calm water. Avoid busy boating routes. Also avoid areas with lots of waves. Many nature reserves have marked routes that are suitable for beginners and families.
Clothing and equipment
The weather on the water is often changeable. Always take waterproof jackets and an extra jumper, even in summer. Sun cream and a sun hat are important, because the reflection from the water makes the sun stronger. Are you going to sail for longer? Then take enough water and snacks. Children get hungry and thirsty more quickly when they are outside.
Think of a small first aid kit with plasters. If necessary, also take travel sickness medication. Some children quickly become nauseous on the water. In that case choose calm days with little wind and few waves.
Booking and timing
Especially in high season and during school holidays it is wise to book in advance. Arrive about 30 minutes before departure. That way you have enough time for a safety briefing. You can also calmly choose good seats. Many operators offer early or late time slots, which can be more pleasant if you are travelling with toddlers who find crowds overwhelming.
‘ They do offer a complete nature experience with overnight stays on board or in nearby accommodation. ’
Duration and cost of boat trips
The costs vary depending on the type of trip and the duration. Short cruises of 30 to 60 minutes are often affordable and offer a first introduction to boating. These trips usually cost between 10 and 20 euros per person, with discounts for children.
Hiring a sloop or whisper boat is more expensive, usually between 40 and 80 euros for half a day, depending on the size of the boat and the season. This is suitable for families who want more freedom. You can then spend longer on the water. For multi-day boating holidays the costs are higher. They do offer a complete nature experience with overnight stays on board or in nearby accommodation.
Sustainable boating and respect for nature
Many nature areas have rules to protect vulnerable plants and animals. Electric boats and whisper boats make less noise and do not cause pollution. This is better for wildlife and water quality. When hiring, ask whether the boat is electric.
Stay on the designated routes and avoid reed banks where birds are nesting. Take all your rubbish back with you and do not leave food scraps behind. Explain to children why it is important to be quiet near nests and animals’ resting places. This strengthens their awareness and respect for nature.
Tips from experienced families
Parents who regularly go boating with children share useful experiences. Children especially enjoy being actively involved. Let them steer themselves or look for animals with binoculars. This keeps their attention and makes the trip more interactive.
Combine the boat trip with a picnic on the waterside or a walk along a boardwalk trail. This breaks up the day and offers variety. Do not plan the trip too long, especially with young children. An hour to an hour and a half is often ideal.
Choose calm days with little wind to prevent nausea. Check the weather forecast and, if possible, plan for a sunny, calm day. Take a camera or smartphone with you to capture special moments, such as spotting a beaver or a child steering for the first time.
‘ Discover more and plan your next trip with reliable, well-considered advice. ’
Find out more about travelling with children
On the Traveler Tips website you will find much more information about travelling with the family, from practical tips for car journeys to sights and routes that are suitable for all ages. Discover more and plan your next trip with reliable, well-considered advice. That way you will be better prepared.
Frequently asked questions
For families with children of different ages, calm guided cruises are the most suitable, because you sit together, can see everything and children feel safe. Sailing yourself in an electric sloop is also comfortable and safe, provided everyone wears a life jacket and you choose a quiet route. Sailing trips on sheltered water can be fun for older children, while with younger children it is better to plan short trips with plenty of breaks. Fast RIB trips are less suitable in terms of comfort and safety for young children, but can be a nice extra for teenagers alongside calmer activities.
First search on Google Maps and on platforms such as GetYourGuide or local tourist information (VVV) websites for operators with many recent, positive reviews and clear safety and cancellation policies. Choose a maximum of one water activity per day and plan it either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, so that you keep the middle of the day free for downtime and travelling. Group activities geographically (for example, all Biesbosch activities on one day) to limit travel time. Book as much as possible online in advance, so you don’t waste time on the spot looking and booking.
Opt for hiring a sloop, canoe or SUP yourself instead of organised cruises; this is often cheaper, especially with several family members. Go outside the high season or during the week and choose shorter trips of 1–2 hours to keep costs down. Take your own food and drinks instead of buying them on board and combine the trip with a free activity such as a picnic or walk. Compare operators online and look out for family packages, early booking discounts or last-minute deals.
Yes, there are definitely unique boat trips that offer extra wow factor, such as beaver trips in De Biesbosch National Park where you sail silently through willow woods. In cities you can opt for themed cruises, for example pirate cruises or amphibious bus tours that partly drive and partly sail. On Lake IJsselmeer and the Wadden Sea you can join a sailing trip on a traditional ship for a real adventure. Hiring an electric sloop yourself and planning your own route with a picnic and play stops also gives a very personal experience.
