Licence-free on the Randmeren
Rent a motor yacht without a licence
In the Netherlands you may skipper a motor yacht licence-free, as long as it is shorter than 15 metres and goes no faster than 20 kilometres per hour. All our Linssen yachts meet both, so you take the helm yourself from Harderwijk across the Randmeren, once we have calmly shown you everything.
Which rules apply in the Netherlands?
For pleasure craft on Dutch inland waters the rule is simple: if the boat is shorter than 15 metres and its speed stays at or below 20 km/h, it is licence-free. Our yachts cruise gently at 10 to 12 km/h and measure between almost ten and thirteen metres, so each of them can be skippered licence-free.
| Yacht | Length | Cruising speed |
|---|---|---|
| Dojo, Linssen 30.0 SL Sedan | 9.70 m | 10 to 12 km/h |
| Idefix, Linssen Grand Sturdy 35.0 AC | 10.70 m | 10 to 12 km/h |
| Vita Lenta, Linssen Grand Sturdy 40.1 AC | approx. 12.85 m | 10 to 12 km/h |
How we prepare you for your first trip
On the day you set off, we take our time with you. Together we walk through the yacht, show you the engine, the systems on board and the shore power, and then practise manoeuvring and mooring out on the water until it feels right. The bow and stern thrusters on every one of our Linssens make this easier, because they let you ease the yacht sideways against the jetty without any fuss. You only set off when you feel ready, and while you are under way you can reach us at any time on WhatsApp.
If you would like to feel more confident beforehand, we offer boating lessons in theory and practice together with De Randmeren, and you can watch the Linssen instruction videos at home in your own time.
Why the Randmeren are so pleasant for first-time skippers
The Randmeren are a chain of calm, sheltered lakes between the old mainland and Flevoland, with a well-marked channel and plenty of harbours close together. Distances are short: Elburg is an hour and a half away and Spakenburg three hours, and our home port lies directly opposite Harderwijk. Along the way you can moor at one of the small nature islands or spend the evening in one of the old harbour towns, just as you like.
Which yacht suits you?
All our yachts handle calmly and predictably, and yet each has its own character.
Dojo
Dojo is a Linssen 30.0 SL Sedan and, at almost ten metres, the easiest yacht in our fleet to handle, ideal for two guests taking the helm for the first time. From € 1,945 per week.
More about Dojo →
Idefix
Idefix is a Linssen Grand Sturdy 35.0 AC with two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, and suits two couples or a family beautifully. From € 2,445 per week.
More about Idefix →
Vita Lenta
Vita Lenta is a Linssen Grand Sturdy 40.1 AC, offering three cabins and six berths for larger groups from 2027. From € 4,225 per week.
More about Vita Lenta →Prices apply to 2027 and include the final cleaning. Everything about diesel, harbour fees and the deposit can be found on our page What does it cost to rent a Linssen?
Would you rather not take the helm?
That is possible too. We are happy to bring the yacht to a place of your choice, such as the boulevard in Harderwijk, where you can enjoy your home on the water while we take care of the sailing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boating licence for a motor yacht in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands a licence is only required for boats of 15 metres or longer, or faster than 20 km/h. Our Linssen yachts are shorter and cruise at 10 to 12 km/h, so all of them are licence-free.
Do I need boating experience?
Experience is welcome. If you have none yet, we train you and your guests before departure, so that you feel confident at the helm.
How long does the introduction take?
As long as you need. We walk through the yacht together, practise manoeuvring and mooring, and you only set off when you feel ready.
May we take the yacht onto the IJsselmeer?
The IJsselmeer is permitted with all our yachts if you have sufficient boating experience and the weather is calm, at wind force 3 or less. The sheltered Randmeren are the loveliest choice to begin with.
What if I feel unsure while under way?
Then we are there for you. You have one fixed point of contact whom you can reach on WhatsApp throughout your holiday, and together we always find a solution.
Curious which yacht is free on your dates?
Compare our yachts and choose your dates straight away.