FAQ's about renting a boat
We’ll make sure you’re well-prepared for your journey!
Renting a boat without a license – it's possible!
If you do not have a boating license, there is no need to worry. The boats rented out by REM Yachtcharter do not require a license. However, if you have no experience at all, it is mandatory to follow a boating course. This can be requested when making your booking.
We always assess boating skills at the time of departure, and if we find it necessary, a boating course may still be required. If desired, it is also possible for us to be on board as you leave the harbor for the first time. This way, you can navigate the first 100 meters with a bit more confidence.
What happens if I cause damage to the boat?
It can be unfortunate when damage occurs while sailing one of our rental boats. This can cause inconvenience for both you and us. That’s why it’s important to contact the rental company immediately in the event of any damage, so we can discuss the next steps together.
Important points to remember:
A security deposit is paid before departure. If the damage is not intentional and meets the set conditions (such as sailing within the permitted area and under suitable weather conditions), the deposit will be retained and the insurance will cover the damage.
If the damage or circumstances fall outside the coverage of the insurance or rental agreement, you may be held responsible for the full cost of the damage.
We are always here to guide you through this process and will work with you to find the best possible solution.
Is the boat insured?
All boats rented out by REM Yachtcharter are fully insured against all risks, with a deductible equal to the required security deposit paid before departure. The coverage area of our insurance includes all inland waterways in the Netherlands.
Please note: Sailing on the Wadden Sea, the IJsselmeer, and the major rivers requires prior consultation and written permission from us.
Where can I park my car?
At the departure marina, parking is available near the boat for your car(s). If needed, there is also space for trailers or camper vans. Please let us know in advance if you plan to bring one.
Parking costs are included in the rental price.
Please note: Sailing on the Wadden Sea, the IJsselmeer, and the major rivers requires prior consultation and written permission from us.
Boating Season & Bridges
The boating season runs each year from April through October. The exact dates may vary slightly each year, depending on public holidays, and are announced at the end of each season. In the early and late season, bridge opening hours are more limited than during high season.
Bridge opening times from April 1 to October 31:
7 days a week, from 09:00 to 19:00.High season bridge times (June, July, August):
09:00 to 20:00.Commercial shipping canals may have different operating times.
Please note: sailing with our boats after dark is not permitted.
Security deposit for the boat
A security deposit is required before setting out on the water. The amount of the deposit depends on the size of the boat:
For boats up to 10.50 meters: €750,-
For boats 10.50 meters and larger: € 1000,-
The security deposit must be paid before departure, either via bank transfer in advance or on site by credit card or in cash
Important: The security deposit applies per individual damage incident.
Check-in and check-out days
High Season Rental Periods (June–August):
Week rental
Check-in: Friday at 16:00
Check-out: Friday at 09:30*
Weekend or midweek rentals during high season are only available on request.
Low and Shoulder Season Rental Periods (April–May & September–October):
Week rental
Check-in: Friday at 16:00
Check-out: Friday at 09:30*
Weekend rental
Check-in: Friday at 16:00
Check-out: Monday at 09:30*
Midweek rental
Check-in: Monday at 16:00
Check-out: Friday at 09:30*
*Check-out means: the boat must be fully refueled, clean, and free of personal belongings, and must be returned to our dock.
Important: If the boat is returned late, the rental company reserves the right to charge extra fees. These fees may be up to €150 per hour.
How does a reservation work?
Once your booking has been completed in our system, you will receive an email with your booking confirmation. This email will also include the rental agreement for the boat you selected.
You are required to return a signed copy of the agreement by email or upload it in your personal online environment. You can also send documents via the contact page on our website.
After we have received both the signed rental agreement and the required deposit, your reservation will be final.
You can also make a booking request via the booking form on our contact page, by email, or by phone. However, please note: your reservation is only confirmed once we have received the signed agreement and deposit.
Are there any additional costs?
The boat is filled with diesel and fresh water before departure. Upon returning to the marina, you are required to refill the diesel tank at the fuel station near the entrance. This way, you only pay for the fuel you have actually used. The water tank does not need to be refilled — we will take care of that!
In addition, there may be some extra costs during your trip, such as bridge tolls, harbor fees, water refills along the way, and shore power usage.
Fuel, Water, Electricity, Bridge & Harbor Fees
You also have the option to rent extra items from us:
Pillow + duvet + bed linen package: €22.50
Towel package (1 large + 1 small towel): €12.50
Tea towel package: €8.00
Fishing permit: €10.00
Waterway map: €25.00 (can also be sent by post)
Life jacket: €5.00 (children under 16: free)
What do I need to bring?
Our motor yachts come with a complete inventory, which you can find in the inventory list.
What you’ll need to bring yourself are:
sleeping bags or duvets, pillows, pillowcases, fitted sheets, hand towels, and tea towels.
These items can also be rented from us if you prefer.
We also recommend bringing a few handy items:
A flashlight
Coins (for bridge and harbor fees)
Flat shoes with little or no tread (to avoid damaging the deck)
- Preferably wear shoes without black soles, as black soles can leave marks on our deck.
Please note: Pets and self-brought bicycles are not allowed on board.
Where Am I Allowed to Sail — and What Routes Are Recommended?
The rental boats from REM Yachtcharter are allowed to navigate freely within the provinces of Friesland, Groningen, and Drenthe. For destinations outside these provinces, prior permission is required, which will be confirmed in writing if approved.
There are many beautiful routes to explore within these regions, and we’re happy to help you plan a custom itinerary. Some example routes include:
Friesland Route 1
Friesland Route 2
Overijssel Route 1
Overijssel Route 2
Sailing on the Wadden Sea, IJsselmeer, or major rivers is only permitted after consultation and with written approval in advance.
Anchoring is not allowed with our rental boats.
What Should I Know About Weather Conditions?
As your rental provider, we closely monitor the weather forecasts. However, you are always personally responsible for deciding whether or not to head out on the water.
Our boats are insured for sailing in wind conditions up to Beaufort force 5. Above this wind force, specific restrictions apply.
In the event of official weather warnings issued by the KNMI (Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute), we strongly recommend that you contact us for guidance.
If we are informed in time of extreme conditions, we will do our best to notify you via SMS in advance.
What Should I Do in Case of a Breakdown or Emergency?
If a malfunction occurs or alarms go off on board, it is important to immediately switch off the engine and contact the rental company. Our team will arrive as soon as possible with our service vehicle to inspect the situation and provide assistance where possible.
In case of an emergency, you must first call the emergency number 112 and then inform the rental company of the situation.