General FAQ

  • What is BoatNow?

    BoatNow is an independent platform where you can rent a boat. We have the largest selection of boats available always with the lowest price guaranteed. If you download the app you can even be on the water within an hour. With more then 150 different pick-up location throughout the city there will always be a boat available for you.

  • What is a free request?

    Like it says, a request for a boat totally free of charge. You let us know which boat, how many people and at which date and we will check the availability. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

  • What is the difference between Boat Now and Boat Later in the app?

    With Boat Now we guarantee you to step aboard a boat in under 60 minutes from now. With Boat Later you can be assured of the availability of your favourite boat well in advance.

  • What if no boats are around on the app?

    We’ll still contact you by phone to see how we can help you out. Perhaps there is a boat available a few tram stops away!

  • Are all boats always available?

    We have unique tools to determine whether or not a particular boat is available. Send us a Free Request and we’ll let you know.

Boats FAQ

  • Whose boats am I renting?

    We do not own any boats. All of the boats we offer are from shipping companies in Amsterdam, with a license and sailed by experienced captains.

  • Am I renting a licensed boat?

    All the boats displayed on our app or website are licensed by the City of Amsterdam.

  • How about safety on board?

    All the boats displayed on the app or website are licensed and in compliance with the latest rules and regulations that are documented in the https://www.waternet.nl/siteassets/zakelijk/beroepsvaart-in-en-om-amsterdam/passagiersvaart/regeling-passagiersvaart-amsterdam-2013-versie-februari-2017.pdf The canals of Amsterdam are very safe and you dont have to worry about getting seasick. The captain will always make sure that you feel comfortable and safe on board. Do not hesitate to ask questions about safety. Life vests are always on board and you can request special life vests for children.

  • Where am I being picked up?

    You can choose over 150 pick up locations throughout the city.

  • How long are we going to be on the water?

    You’ll need at least an hour to experience the majestic canals of Amsterdam. Therefore we have set this as the minimum. Beyond the first hour, the sky is the limit.

  • Which different types of boat can I rent?

    There are four different types of boat: Big Boats (Over 20 people), Open Boats (with a 360 degree view), Romantic Boats (for just the two of you), and Saloon Boats (classical).

  • Can we hop on, hop off?

    Ask us in advance, we’ll ask the captain.

  • What are the facilities on board?

    Per boat an overview of facilities is given. Therefore you know exactly beforehand if there is a toilet on the boat or that a roof will shield you from Dutch rain.

  • Can the captain arrange something to drink and/or eat on board?

    This depends on which boat you pick. You can see in the specifications per boat if they offer this catering service or not. The shipping companies that do offer this service have special bites/menu's/wine lists that we can send you. We’ll ask you by email/phone what you prefer.

  • Can I bring my own food/drinks?

    Always specify this in your request, the shipping company might charge you a fee for this, known as a corkage fee. Various boats have the costs of this corkage fee specified.

  • Can I change or cancel my order?

    Once you have placed a free request you can always change/cancel it by email/phone. We’ll contact you first to specify the details. When we have confirmed the booking it is always possible to make some adjustments. If the boat is already on its way to the pick-up location and you want to cancel it last minute you'll have to pay the full price.

  • Where can I sail a boat?

    All of our boats are located in Amsterdam and they usually tour the canals throughout the city. However, if you want to do a longer boat tour that goes outside of Amsterdam we're happy to help. Please contact us or specify your requirements in your request.

Payments FAQ

  • How do I pay?

    The shipping company will send you an invoice. If you would like to pay onboard, with creditcard or in cash, you need to request this explicitly.

  • How much will it cost to rent a boat?

    On the app/website you can exactly see what the total price per boat/hour/person is. All prices per hour are based on a 2-hour trip. No surprises in hindsight.

  • Do I pay BoatNow for renting a boat?

    No, our platform is completely free for the end-user.

  • Is it cheaper to rent the boat from the captain him/herself?

    No, we ask exactly the same price as the captains do.

  • What if my tour was not as expected?

    We always aim to deliver the best experience and service on the Canals of Amsterdam. If something went wrong please contact us as soon as possible so we can help you out. The captain is there to help you so make sure to inform him and ask questions if you need anything. Once the tour is over, the captain is already paid so the longer you wait to file a complaint or request a refund, the more difficult it will become for us to help you.

Captains FAQ

  • I’m a captain, how can I get my boat on BoatNow?

    If you are a licensed captain in Amsterdam, send us a text or give us a call. We’ll make something work.

  • How can I contact you if I have any further questions?

    You can always call us on +31 (0) 652000201 or send us an email at info@boatnow.com. You can also use the chat on our website.