Renting a boat in Giethoorn is super popular, but if you start a little outside the tourist village, you can enjoy a much more relaxed and natural day on the water. From Wanneperveen you head straight into Weerribben‑Wieden National Park and have plenty of space and time to enjoy the lakes, reed beds and peat forests – all without the usual tourist crowds.
Book your boat now at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur.
Giethoorn, Weerribben‑Wieden and Wanneperveen
Giethoorn, the “Venice of the North”, is famous for its traditional farmhouses, wooden bridges and narrow canals that you can only reach by boat or on foot. Giethoorn is part of Weerribben‑Wieden National Park, the largest continuous lowland peat bog in north‑western Europe, with lakes, ditches, vast reed fields and swamp forests. Wanneperveen lies just outside, on the edge of this protected nature reserve, and at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur on Veneweg 199 your nature experience practically begins the moment you step aboard: here you get into your boat right at the gateway to the national park and cruise straight into the unique landscape of Weerribben‑Wieden.
Many visitors search online for terms such as “rent a boat Giethoorn”, “boat rental Giethoorn” or “Giethoorn boat hire” – and end up directly at the crowded rental stations in the village centre.
If you start instead at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen, you experience Giethoorn at its best: from the very first moment you cruise calmly across wide lakes and through the quiet reed landscapes of Weerribben‑Wieden in the direction of Giethoorn. This way, you not only enjoy a much calmer alternative to the busy boat rentals in Giethoorn itself, but also a longer, more varied and nature‑rich route – far away from the hustle and bustle.
Renting a boat in Weerribben‑Wieden: what are the options?
Around Giethoorn and Wanneperveen you can rent different types of boats – depending on whether you want to cruise in a relaxed way or be more active on the water, the range goes from comfortable electric boats to sporty SUP boards. That means there is something for every taste.
Rent a boat Giethoorn
Anyone searching for “rent a boat Giethoorn” often ends up directly in the centre, where it gets crowded very quickly in high season. We at Nijenhuis boat rental in Wanneperveen offer a relaxed and above all more natural alternative. With us you step straight into unspoilt nature and cruise over the lakes and through Weerribben‑Wieden towards Giethoorn. With us you experience the beauty of Weerribben‑Wieden and Giethoorn just like a local – perfect for everyone who values an authentic experience without feeling like a typical tourist.
Small boat rental Giethoorn
People who use search terms like “rent a small boat Giethoorn” are usually looking for compact boats that are easy to handle. These include whisper boats, small electric boats and traditional (sailing) punters. At Nijenhuis you’ll find exactly these options – ideal for couples, smaller groups, or even if you simply want a peaceful solo boat trip. When you rent one of our small boats, you glide quietly and flexibly through narrow waterways and reed landscapes.
If you search for “Giethoorn rent small boat”, you’ll see many rental companies right in the tourist centre, where in high season things can really come to a standstill. That doesn’t just spoil the fun, it also wastes the precious time you could be using to enjoy your stay in our breathtaking area. We at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen are very aware of this. That’s why we offer you a relaxed alternative, far away from the hectic hustle and bustle of Giethoorn, while you cruise calmly across wide lakes such as the Belterwijde and Beulakerwijde and can decide for yourself whether you want to continue on to the lively centre of Giethoorn or prefer to keep enjoying the peace and quiet of nature – all without stress or time pressure.
Whisper boat, sloep, canoe or SUP: what’s the difference?
If you want to rent a boat in Giethoorn or Weerribben‑Wieden, you can choose between several boat types. Whether you prefer relaxed cruising, active paddling or comfortable touring with a whole group – every option offers its own special experience on the water.
- Whisper boat / electric sloep: Whisper boats and electric sloeps are among the most popular options when people search for “rent a boat Giethoorn”. They are quiet, eco‑friendly and very easy to steer – even without prior experience. You glide almost silently through nature and can fully enjoy the tranquillity of Weerribben‑Wieden. Ideal for families, couples or groups of around 8–12 people who want to be out on the water in a relaxed way.
- Sloep: A sloep offers you even more comfort and space. Compared to a classic whisper boat, you sit more comfortably, often with better cushions and more freedom of movement on board. Perfect for a longer day trip, for example from Wanneperveen towards Giethoorn across the lakes. If you are searching for "rent a sloep Giethoorn” and value comfort, this is the best choice.
- Canoe: With a canoe, your trip becomes considerably more active. You are very flexible and can reach narrow ditches, small canals and hidden corners of the national park that are off‑limits for larger boats. Ideal for nature lovers who want to experience Weerribben‑Wieden up close and in complete peace.
- SUP (stand up paddle): Our sportiest option. You stand on the board and move across the water with a paddle – perfect for anyone who wants to be active while still soaking up the natural surroundings. Especially on the calm lakes around Wanneperveen and Giethoorn, stand‑up paddling is a real highlight.
Whether you want to rent an electric boat, a comfortable sloep or a small boat in Giethoorn – at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur you start right in the middle of nature and avoid the crowds in the centre.
👉 Secure your boat now and discover Giethoorn and Weerribben‑Wieden in a relaxed way from the water.
Why start in Wanneperveen instead of directly in Giethoorn’s centre?
Stress‑free parking
Directly in Giethoorn, parking is often full and sometimes paid, especially close to the centre. At Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen you can park for free just a 2‑minute walk from the harbour and start your day on the water feeling completely relaxed.
Peace and nature instead of boat jams
The old village of Giethoorn is beautiful, but in high season the waterways can get really crowded and you can end up queuing in a line of rental boats. From Wanneperveen you first cruise across wide lakes and quiet natural waterways in De Wieden, so right at the beginning you can enjoy open views, birds and reed beds instead of sitting in a traffic jam under the bridges.
Direct access to lakes and reed areas
Nijenhuis Botenverhuur is located directly on the waterways of Weerribben‑Wieden National Park, with fast access to lakes such as the Belterwijde and the surrounding reed fields. You don’t have to first manoeuvre through narrow, busy canals – you start your tour right in the heart of nature.
Popular boat routes to Giethoorn and through Weerribben‑Wieden
From Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen you can take various beautiful boat routes – from a short lap across the lakes to a full‑day tour through Weerribben‑Wieden National Park. Whether you want to discover Giethoorn or prefer to enjoy the peace of nature: you always start here in greenery, not in the hustle and bustle of the village centre.
Route 1: From Wanneperveen to the centre of Giethoorn
If you want to experience Giethoorn from the water without starting directly in the crowded village centre, this route from Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen is ideal. You depart right at the edge of Weerribben‑Wieden National Park, first glide calmly over wide lakes and quiet canals and then gradually head towards the famous “Venice of the North”. This way you combine the feeling of peace and nature with the special atmosphere of Giethoorn – without spending the whole day in dense boat traffic.
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Duration: around 1.5 to 2 hours for the round trip, depending on boat type and speed.
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Distance: approximately 10–15 km in total.
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Highlights: From Wanneperveen you cruise across the lakes and canals of De Wieden towards Giethoorn and finally reach the famous “Venice of the North” with its little bridges, thatched farmhouses and narrow canals.
This route is ideal if you want to combine nature and Giethoorn without spending the whole day in the busiest part of the canals. Instead of starting directly in the centre, you first glide over the wide open waters and can then decide for yourself how long you want to stay in the village.
Route 2: Lake Belterwijde and De Wieden
This route also starts directly at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen and takes you into the wide lake landscape of the Belterwijde and De Wieden – ideal if you want a peaceful boat trip in Weerribben‑Wieden National Park.
- Duration: about 1 to 2 hours, perfect as a short morning loop or a relaxed afternoon outing.
- Distance: around 5 kilometres, depending on the exact loop you take and how often you stop for a break.
- Highlights: Wide open lakes, long reed belts, lots of water birds and quiet corners where you can drop anchor for a moment, enjoy the view or simply let the silence sink in.
If you rent a boat in Wanneperveen and are mainly looking for nature and tranquillity, this lake loop is just right. Instead of squeezing through the busy canals of Giethoorn, you enjoy a feeling of freedom on the water, the typical Weerribben‑Wieden landscape and plenty of space to relax.
Want to try this route yourself? Then rent your boat directly at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen and start your personal lake loop on the Belterwijde:
https://nijenhuis-botenverhuur.com
Route 3: Nature route towards Belt‑Schutsloot
If you want to experience not just Giethoorn but the full tranquillity of Weerribben‑Wieden National Park, this nature route from Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen is ideal for you. Instead of cruising through the busy canals of Giethoorn, you glide here through an original water landscape with authentic villages and plenty of space for nature watching.
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Duration: plan around 2 to 3 hours for the round trip – depending on which boat you rent at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur and how many breaks you take along the way. This makes the tour perfect for an extended half‑day trip, with plenty of time to soak up the surroundings.https://nijenhuis-botenverhuur.com/belt-schutsloot
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Distance: the route covers about 6 to 8 kilometres each way and leads you from Wanneperveen through Weerribben‑Wieden National Park to the vicinity of the idyllic water village of Belt‑Schutsloot. You experience far more nature than on a quick loop just around Giethoorn.
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Highlights: Along the way you’ll find narrow ditches and canals, wide reed fields, typical water villages such as Belt‑Schutsloot and great chances to spot various bird species and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
If you rent a boat in Wanneperveen from Nijenhuis Botenverhuur, you get more than a classic “Giethoorn boat tour”: you start right at the edge of Weerribben‑Wieden National Park, cruise through quiet nature, discover lesser‑known waterways and can consciously avoid the hustle and bustle in Giethoorn – or simply save it for another day.
A complete overview of all boat routes from Nijenhuis, including the route to Giethoorn, the Belterwijde lake loop and the nature route towards Belt‑Schutsloot, can be found on the interactive boating map (Vaarkaart):
https://nijenhuis-botenverhuur.com/vaarkaart
Which boat suits my group?
Which boat is best with children?
If you are out on the water with children, our electric boat for 5 people or the electric sloep for 8 people (if you need a bit more space) is ideal: you sit together low and safely in the boat, have enough room for bags and a picnic and are still close to the water. Because the boats travel slowly and are easy to handle, you can focus on the surroundings and the kids instead of worrying about complicated technology.
On the water with 8–10 people: which sloep is right?
For groups of 8–10 people, the larger classic tender boats from Nijenhuis are perfect; they are designed for around 8 to 12 people. You have comfortable seating all around, lots of legroom and enough capacity for a longer trip to Giethoorn or through Weerribben‑Wieden.
Relaxed boating for two: which boat is right for us?
For couples or small groups of 2–4 people, a compact electric boat or a small sloep is usually more than enough, because you can manoeuvre easily and still sit well protected. If you want to be more sporty and even closer to the water, a kayak or a SUP board is perfect for exploring the narrow ditches and quiet lakes together.
Sporty on the water: canoe or SUP?
Anyone who likes a bit of action often chooses a canoe or SUP, with which you paddle at your own pace through the reeds and across the lakes. Because many parts of De Wieden are calm and relatively shallow, this area is made for these quiet, nature‑friendly forms of watersport.
Practical info (prices, times, reservations)
Season and opening hours
Nijenhuis Botenverhuur is a family‑run boat rental at Veneweg 199 in 7946 LP Wanneperveen, right on the edge of the unique Weerribben‑Wieden National Park – the largest lowland peat bog in north‑western Europe. From here, your boat trip to Giethoorn and into Weerribben‑Wieden starts straight away. In the season from 1 April to 31 October we are open daily from 09:00 to 18:00.
Prices and rental models
At Nijenhuis you’ll find boats for different budgets, with day rates starting from 20 euros for kayaks and up to 230 euros for our larger, more luxurious sloeps. You can rent your boat very flexibly:
You can reserve full days online or by phone – also for several days or full weeks in a row. If you prefer to be spontaneous, you can also rent by the hour directly at our rental station during opening hours; hourly rental is only possible on site, not online or by phone.
Reservations: online or on site
Especially at weekends, on public holidays and during school vacations, it’s worth reserving your sloep or boat online in advance – that way you can be sure that a boat is available for you, even on busy days. Of course, you can also just drop by spontaneously; then it depends on which boats are still available – especially in sunny weather, many boats are quickly fully booked.
Reserve your boat now at Nijenhuis Botenverhuurhttps://nijenhuis-botenverhuur.com/
Payment methods and deposit
At Nijenhuis Botenverhuur you can conveniently pay in cash or by debit card (EC‑card) on site; for online reservations you can also use iDEAL, Apple Pay and Google Pay. For our sloeps we charge a deposit, which you leave in cash on arrival and which will be fully refunded when you return the boat undamaged. If you book online and choose “pay on arrival”, a prepayment fee of 10% of the rental price applies; the remaining amount is paid on site.
Boat licence and briefing
You don’t need a boat licence for any of the boats at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur – neither for the electric sloeps nor for the other electric boats. They are deliberately slow (maximum around 6 km/h), easy to steer and thus ideal if this is your first time renting a boat. Before you cast off, you receive a personal briefing on your boat, its controls and the most important navigation rules in the Weerribben‑Wieden area, so you can start your trip feeling safe and confident.
Parking
Directly at our boat rental in Wanneperveen you’ll find free parking spaces right by the water. You park your car directly at the rental and walk only about two minutes to the jetty – so after your trip you can moor, get off and be back at your car in no time.
FAQ – renting a boat near Giethoorn and Wanneperveen
Do I need a boat licence to rent a sloep from Nijenhuis Botenverhuur?
No. If you rent a sloep or any other boat from Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen, you do not need a boat licence; the boats are slow and easy to operate.
Can I rent a boat with children at Nijenhuis?
Yes, families are very welcome, and electric sloeps and whisper boats are perfect for a calm trip with children. Because the boats do not reach high speeds and you receive a full briefing before departure, even inexperienced skippers feel safe.
How long does it take to go from Wanneperveen to Giethoorn?
From Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen it is about 10 km to the centre of Giethoorn. The full trip there and back usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on boat type and speed.
Question: Is Nijenhuis Botenverhuur close to Giethoorn?
Answer: Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen is only about 4 to 5 kilometres from Giethoorn and can be reached by car in around 5 minutes – an ideal alternative to renting a boat directly in the centre.
If you rent a boat here, you start your trip relaxed, away from the crowds, and reach Giethoorn easily over the water. The distance to the centre is about 10 kilometres and leads you through the beautiful nature of Weerribben‑Wieden. For the outward and return journey you should plan around 1.5 to 2 hours – perfect for a varied and peaceful boat tour.
So if you are searching for “rent a boat Giethoorn”, in Wanneperveen you will find not only a relaxed alternative, but also the ideal starting point for a longer and much more scenic route.
Are there free parking spaces at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur?
Yes, at Nijenhuis you can park for free on the premises at Veneweg 199 in Wanneperveen, directly at the boat rental.
Is Nijenhuis Botenverhuur close to Giethoorn?
Yes, Wanneperveen is about 4–5 km by car and 9–10 km by boat from Giethoorn; by car you need around 5 minutes, and on the water you follow a beautiful route through De Wieden towards the village in about 20–30 minutes.
Can I rent by the hour instead of for a full day?
Yes, at Nijenhuis hourly rental is possible, but you arrange this exclusively on site and not via the online reservation system.
Which boats can I rent at Nijenhuis Botenverhuur in Wanneperveen?
You can choose from various electric sloeps and whisper boats, sailing boats, canoes and SUP boards for 1 to around 12 people. Our classic tenders for 8– 10 people and our electric sloeps are especially popular.
I want to avoid the crowds in Giethoorn’s centre – is Wanneperveen a quieter starting point?
Yes, because you start directly in Weerribben‑Wieden National Park, you mainly cruise through nature and across wide lakes and can decide for yourself if and when you head into the livelier centre of Giethoorn.