Pack your boat, prepare the route and go. During a boating holiday, you get the chance to explore the waters of the Netherlands or abroad. Do you want to get the most out of this holiday? Then discover these tips and tricks for a well-prepared boating holiday.
Plan a beautiful route
It's a nice idea to avoid a strict schedule during a holiday, but for a boating holiday, a planned route is indispensable. Don't just think about which places and highlights you want to visit, but also consider the practical matters. Many bridges and locks have fixed opening hours and are therefore not always available, as there is no crew present. So, check in advance which route you want to take, which bridges and locks you will encounter, and when they are accessible.
Choose a good marina as your home port
It is possible to sail a continuous route during your boating holiday, but also consider using a certain marina as your home port. There are several marinas in the Netherlands and abroad with an ideal location. From here you can make several day trips, so you can explore the area and still be assured of a fixed resting place. This significantly reduces the organizational work around your boating holiday.
Think of your boating licence
You don't need to have a boating licence when you are sailing calmly in a boat less than 15 meters long, with a maximum speed of 20 kilometers per hour. That is ideal for an afternoon of fishing on a lake, but during your boating holiday you might want to go a bit faster. With small boating licence 1 you can safely sail on inland waters, while small boating licence 2 gives you access to the large waters and lakes. Don't forget to pack this boating licence and always have it with you during your holiday.
Invest in good equipment
For recreational boaters, much equipment is not mandatory, but technical gadgets make your trips a lot easier and safer. For example, a VHF radio helps you communicate with others, while a radar warns you when another moving object is nearby. Please note that at least one person on board must have a VHF certificate to use this device. Also consider a chart plotter to keep an eye on your surroundings and sailing route, so you never get lost.
Don't forget your safety
Safety is important on a boat, so don't forget to pack boots with a good non-slip sole. Strong leather or rubber gloves are also indispensable on a boat, especially when tying and throwing lines. Are children coming on board? Then pack suitable life jackets and don't forget to install a railing on the boat.
Check the tanks regularly
There's nothing worse than suddenly running out of water or fuel during a long boat trip. So make it a habit to regularly check your boat's tanks. See if there's enough fuel before you leave and top up the water tank if necessary. Empty the toilet tank when you're in a designated spot, so you don't risk it overflowing.
Items for fun activities
When packing, don't forget that you're also going to have a lot of fun during your boating holiday. So pack items for fun activities, such as a paddleboard or a large swimming ring to float around in. Animal lovers should bring binoculars to spot the many birds and wild animals along the shore. Of course, a boating holiday is also perfect for an afternoon of fishing, so don't forget your fishing gear.
Bring delicious food
A holiday is not complete without good food, and that also applies to a boating holiday. Enjoy the water to the fullest by bringing a grill on board, so you can grill your freshly caught fish directly. On warm days, there's nothing better than a cooler full of fresh fruit and cold drinks, while on cool evenings you might prefer to enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate.
