Rent a sailboat in Amsterdam
Sailing is different from cruising. The wind sets the rhythm, the sails catch the force, the boat heels slightly as you cut through the water. Renting a sailboat in Amsterdam offers an active, authentic experience on the water. Not passively riding along, but feeling the elements.
The freedom of the wind
On a sailboat you depend on the wind, and that's exactly what makes it special. The moment the sails fill and the boat picks up speed. The sound of water against the hull. The silence when the engine is off and only the wind propels you. Sailing is an experience you won't find anywhere else.
Sailing in and around Amsterdam
Amsterdam's canals are narrow for sailing, but the IJ and the waters around the city offer perfect conditions. Longer routes to the Markermeer or IJmeer make extended sailing trips possible. For the canals themselves our boats have an electric motor as backup, so you can always cruise, even without wind.
Rent a Boat Amsterdam is a partnership of the city's leading boat operators. You book directly at the source, without intermediaries. We always sail, on time, well organised and without exception.
Questions or booking?
Call +31 (0)20 6247635
We can help with every request
Our guests rate us 9.1 out of 3,799 reviews
.webp){kind=icon}
Authentic sailing experience
Sailing the way it's meant to be. Feeling the wind, watching the boat respond, following the rhythm of the elements. An experience that goes beyond passive cruising.
Active element possible
Those who want to can help out. Pulling lines, taking the helm, learning how the sails work. Team building through sailing together, or just lean back and enjoy.
Unique and adventurous
A sailboat is not a standard choice. It's for those who want something different, something adventurous. A story to tell, a memory that lasts.
Electric motor as backup
No wind? No problem. Our sailboats are equipped with a quiet, electric motor. You'll always arrive where you need to be, even when the wind doesn't cooperate.
Sailboat experiences
Sailing on the IJ
The IJ offers space and wind. A sailing trip here is different from the canals: more speed, more room, more adventure. With the Amsterdam skyline as your backdrop.
Sailboat with dinner
Combine the adventure of sailing with culinary enjoyment. First active on the water, then dinner on board as the sun sets. A special combination.
Team building on a sailboat
Sailing together requires cooperation. Pulling lines, communicating, responding to the wind. A sailboat is a natural setting for team building that goes beyond meetings.
What makes sailboats special?
1 - Sailing as an experience
Sailing with the wind is different from cruising with an engine. It's more active, more unpredictable, more authentic. You feel the elements, not just the route.
2 - Active experience
Those who want to can join in. Helping with the sails, taking the helm, learning what a jib is. Or just watching the crew do their thing. Both are fine.
3 - Maritime tradition
Sailing has history. The boats, the techniques, the terminology: it connects you with centuries of seafaring. An authentic experience in a modern setting.
4 - Different from the rest
Most boat outings are on salon boats. A sailboat stands out. It's a choice that gets noticed, an experience that's remembered.
5 - Adventure and unpredictability
The wind has a say. Sometimes speed, sometimes calm. That variation makes sailing exciting. No two trips are the same.
6 - Teamwork on board
Sailing is working together. The crew, or your group if you help out, needs to coordinate. Communication, timing, reaction. Natural team building.
Frequently asked questions
No. Our sailboats come with an experienced skipper and crew. They do the work, you enjoy. Helping out is welcome, but not required.
The canals are too narrow for sailing, but the IJ and the surrounding waters are perfect. For longer routes we sail to the Markermeer or IJmeer. On the canals themselves we use the electric motor.
Absolutely. Sailing is excellent for team building. Working together on the sails, communicating, responding. Or simply enjoying a unique experience with colleagues.
hen we use the electric motor. Quiet, clean and reliable. You'll always arrive, even in calm conditions. The experience is then comparable to our salon boats.
Our guests rate us 9.1 out of 3,799 reviews
Sailboat or salon boat?
Sailboat
Active, adventurous, dependent on the wind. Ideal for those who want something unique, willing to feel the elements. Best on the IJ or larger waters. Season: spring to autumn.
Book a sailboatSalon boat
Comfortable, predictable, suitable for all occasions. Covered and heated, perfect for the canals. Every season, every occasion. The safe, reliable choice.
View salon boatsFor sailing experiences and trips on larger waters we work together with specialised partners. Options range from small sailboats for intimate groups to larger sailing vessels for events.
Get in touch for current availability and options for sailing in and around Amsterdam.
