Boating within and to Friesland
Brooks, rivers, lakes, canals, ponds, ditches and waterways — in Friesland we have more words for water than for bread. Makes sense, we’ve been living with it for centuries. We drove back the sea, sailed the canals, pole-vaulted across ditches and built mounds to keep our feet dry. Experience our beautiful water landscape by ferry, bicycle ferry or from your own (or rented) boat!
Ferries and bicycle ferries
Although Friesland is easily accessible by car and bike, there are a few exceptions. With so many waterways, it’s only natural that sometimes you’ll need to take a ferry — to cross a canal, for example, or to reach one of the Wadden Islands. It’s the perfect opportunity to admire the stunning Frisian landscape from the water.
As you travel through the province by bike or car, you’ll come across several places where you can hop on a ferry or bicycle ferry. Don’t pass up the chance! A short trip across the water adds something special to your route. For true enthusiasts, there’s even a dedicated ferry cycling route with distances ranging from 27 to 74 kilometres. At some of the ferries, you can take a break and enjoy a snack or drink.
Ferry Route “The 8 of Grou”
To the Wadden Islands
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By boat to Terschelling or Vlieland
Rederij Doeksen takes you from Harlingen to Terschelling or Vlieland.
Heading to Terschelling? You can take the regular ferry (travel time approx. 120 minutes) — cars are allowed — or the fast ferry (approx. 45 minutes). The car-free island of Vlieland can be reached by regular ferry in about 95 minutes, or by fast ferry via Terschelling in about 90 minutes.
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By boat to Ameland or Schiermonnikoog
If you’re heading to Ameland, your journey starts in Holwerd. From Lauwersoog, you can take the ferry to Schiermonnikoog. You’ll reach both islands in about 45 minutes with Rederij Wagenborg.
The water taxi takes around twenty minutes. Cars, bicycles and motorbikes can only be taken to Ameland by ferry. Schiermonnikoog is a car-free island.
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Parking
At Rederij Doeksen in Harlingen, you can easily park your car before taking the ferry to Terschelling or Vlieland.
Travelling to Ameland or Schiermonnikoog? Then you can park your car at Wagenborg in Holwerd.
When do you need a boating licence?
In the Netherlands, you need a small boating licence if you’re operating a water scooter, jet ski, inflatable boat or motorboat under 15 metres in length that can go faster than 20 km/h. A licence is also required for recreational vessels between 15 and 25 metres long.
Good to know
- You can buy ferry tickets to the Wadden Islands on the spot, but it’s better to book them online — especially during the high season or when you’re visiting for an event!
- Travelling with children? Make sure they enjoy the trip too. Rent a small follow boat! A 2.5 hp motorboat is suitable for children aged 12 and up. If they’re younger, you can tow them safely behind your sailboat or motor yacht in a small inflatable dinghy.
- Not familiar with the Frisian waters yet? Download the ANWB Waterkaarten app! It helps you navigate in the right direction with confidence.