Rent a Boat in Giethoorn North and Old Giethoorn Central | Discover Old Giethoorn from the Water

Experience the real Giethoorn: peaceful, green and authentic. From Old Giethoorn, you explore the village at your own pace, far away from the crowds. Rent an electric whisper boat, luxury sloop or bike and discover the historic canal village, natural waterways and the surrounding Weerribben–Wieden National Park in a relaxed and personal way.

Multiple rental locations in the canal village of Giethoorn

At Old Giethoorn, we make your visit simple and stress-free. With several rental locations in Giethoorn North, Giethoorn Central and the quiet part of the village centre, you can always board close to the water. No queues, no crowds — just start your trip in peace.

Each location is beautifully situated along the historic canal village and easily accessible, often with free parking just a short walk away. Our local staff provide personal instructions, a route map and valuable tips about quiet waterways, nature zones and hidden spots only the locals know.

Rent a whisper boat, sloop or canoe in Giethoorn

Giethoorn is at its most beautiful when seen from the water. At Old Giethoorn, you will find the perfect way to explore the village peacefully, suitable for every type of group:

  • Rent a whisper boat: silent, electric and ideal for a relaxed discovery tour.
  • Rent a luxury sloop: spacious, comfortable and perfect for families, couples and groups of friends.
  • Rent a punter, canoe or SUP: enjoy an active and quiet adventure surrounded by nature.

All boats are easy to operate and suitable for both beginners and experienced skippers.

Rent a bike in Giethoorn, explore the Weerribben-Wieden

Want to see even more after your boat trip? At Old Giethoorn, you can also rent bikes — from city bikes and e-bikes to children’s bikes. With the free cycling map, you can discover beautiful routes through lakes, reed fields and charming villages such as Dwarsgracht, Blokzijl and Belt-Schutsloot. A perfect addition to your day in Giethoorn.

Boat & bike combination — the ultimate day in Giethoorn

For those who want the best of both worlds: start the day with a peaceful boat tour through the canals and continue your route by bike towards the unique landscape of the Weerribben–Wieden. With boat and bike rental at one location, you enjoy maximum freedom and flexibility.

Why choose Old Giethoorn?

  • Local entrepreneurs with love for the village and personal service
  • Multiple rental locations in Giethoorn North, Giethoorn Central and the quiet village centre
  • Right by the water — board without queues or mass tourism
  • Wide selection of whisper boats, sloops and bicycles for all group sizes
  • Free parking within short walking distance of the rental points
  • Excellent reviews from visitors who appreciate peace, nature and quality

Book your boat or bike today at Old Giethoorn

Ready for a day full of nature, tranquillity and authentic Gieterse charm? Reserve your whisper boat, sloop, punter, canoe or bicycle at one of our rental locations in Giethoorn North or Central and experience the village as it was meant to be: peaceful, small-scale and connected to nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. All whisper boats and luxury sloops rented via Old Giethoorn are **license-free**.

Yes. Giethoorn North & Central are known as the “most peaceful and authentic part” of the village, without traffic jams on the water or mass tourism.

A whisper boat is electric, silent and ideal for relaxed cruising.
A luxury sloop offers more space, comfortable cushions and a steering wheel for extra comfort.

Anyone aged about 16 and older may operate a whisper boat in Giethoorn.

Yes. In Giethoorn North & Central, free and nearby parking is almost always available.

A standard tour takes 2 to 3 hours.
For the full Old Giethoorn route including the lake Bovenwijde, 3–4 hours is ideal.

The most popular quiet route goes via the northern canals towards the lake Bovenwijde, right through nature.

Yes. Along the route you will find for example:
– **Smit’s Paviljoen**
– **Café-Restaurant ’t Vonder**
– **Café-Restaurant Smit Giethoorn**
Perfect for a break by the water.

Yes. Toilets are available at various restaurants, museums and several mooring points.

Yes. This is actually the safest and quietest part of Giethoorn, without heavy boat traffic.

In most cases yes. Just check when making your reservation to be sure.

In case of rain or strong wind, a reservation can often be rescheduled. Conditions vary per rental operator.

Yes. You can combine boating and cycling at the same location.

Yes. All whisper boats are fully electric; many luxury sloops are electric as well.

The morning and early evening are the most beautiful. It’s quieter, cooler and the light is perfect for photos.


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Local Partners in Old Giethoorn

Old Giethoorn collaborates with dedicated local entrepreneurs in Giethoorn North & Central.
From these peaceful locations, you can enjoy boating away from mass tourism.