Friesland offers many different boating routes, each with its own character. For beginners, the Frisian Lakes Route (3-7 days) and the Woudaap Route (1-2 days) are ideal. Nature lovers should choose De Alde Feanen or the Lits-Lauwersmeer Route. Experienced boaters can go for the challenging Turf Route (7-10 days) or the complete Eleven Cities Route (7-10 days). Your choice depends on your experience, available time, and what you want to see.
Friesland is known for its beautiful waterways with hundreds of kilometers of navigable waters. With so many possible routes, the choice can be overwhelming. Which route matches your experience? How much time do you need? And what are the must-see sights?
This guide will help you make the right choice. You will learn which routes are suitable for beginners, where nature lovers should go, and which routes challenge experienced boaters. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or have a full week, after reading this you will know exactly which route suits you best.
How to choose the right boating route?
The perfect boating route depends on four key factors. By determining these in advance, you can make the best choice for your situation.
Boating experience is the first consideration. Are you boating for the first time? Then routes with wide lakes, good facilities, and movable bridges are ideal. You will have space to practice steering and docking without stress. If you already have experience, you can try more challenging routes with narrow waterways and more maneuvering.
Available time determines which routes are feasible. A weekend gives you enough time for the Woudaap Route or part of the Frisian Lakes Route. For the complete Eleven Cities Route or Turf Route, you will need a week or longer. Consider not only the sailing distance but also the time to visit places and enjoy the surroundings.
Interests make the difference between a good and a great boating trip. Do you enjoy historical cities and culture? Choose the Eleven Cities Route. Is untouched nature more important? Then De Alde Feanen or the Lits-Lauwersmeer Route are better options. Want a mix of both? The Frisian Lakes Route combines nature with charming villages.
Boat clearance height is crucial. Some routes have low or fixed bridges that do not open. Always check in advance if your boat is suitable for the chosen route. From Terherne, most boats fit the most popular routes, but specific stretches require specific dimensions.
Routes for beginners
If you are renting a motorboat for the first time, choose routes that give you space to learn without stress. These three routes are perfect for beginners.
Frisian Lakes Route (5-7 days)
The Frisian Lakes Route is the classic beginner route, and for good reason. The route connects the large Frisian lakes via wide waterways. All bridges are movable, so there are no clearance issues. The lakes provide plenty of space to practice steering and docking.
You will sail past typical Frisian water sports towns such as Sneek, Sloten, IJlst, and Workum. These towns have good marinas with all facilities, ideal if you are still getting used to docking. The distance ranges from approximately 80 to 160 kilometers, depending on the chosen variant.
The beauty of this route is that you can adjust it to your own pace. Three days is the minimum, but seven days gives you the space to fully enjoy each town without rushing. The combination of wide lakes, good facilities, and charming towns makes this the most popular route for first-time boaters.
Woudaap Route (1-2 days)
The Woudaap Route is specifically designed for families with children, making it also perfect for beginners. You sail from Terherne via Langweer and Woudsend to Heeg and back. Distances are short, usually one to two hours of sailing.
All villages along this route have playgrounds and swimming beaches. The short distances make it relaxing while still seeing a beautiful part of Friesland. Perfect for a first-time experience.
Aqueduct Route (1-2 days)
The Aqueduct Route through Southwest Friesland offers something unique: you sail over five aqueducts. Traffic passes underneath, so there is no waiting at bridges. This modern solution makes the route very smooth.
The route combines modern engineering with traditional Frisian villages. The waterways are wide and clear, making it suitable for first-time boaters.
Routes for Nature Lovers
Some houseboat routes pass through the most beautiful natural areas of northern Netherlands. If nature is your priority, these routes are a must.
De Alde Feanen (1–2 days)
De Alde Feanen is not a traditional route but a natural area to explore. This 2,500-hectare region is a National Park.
Here you navigate narrow waterways between reed fields and marshes. The tranquility is overwhelming. In April and May, bird migration is at its peak. Herons nest, lapwings call, and with some luck, you may spot a marsh harrier.
This area requires a relaxed pace: no rush, no strict schedule. For nature photographers, it’s a paradise, and families can enjoy Friesland’s nature at its best.
Lits-Lauwersmeer Route (3–4 days)
The Lits-Lauwersmeer Route connects the Frisian lakes with the Lauwersmeer. The Lauwersmeer was created in 1969 and is now an important bird area. In spring and autumn, large flocks of geese and ducks can be seen.
The route passes through varied landscapes via Dokkum to the open waters of the Lauwersmeer. Open water requires respect: in strong winds, conditions can be rough. Check the weather forecast and plan your crossing on a calm day.
Routes along Historic Cities
For history and culture enthusiasts, Friesland offers houseboat routes along beautiful old towns.
Eleven Cities Route (7–10 days)
The Eleven Cities Route is the most famous houseboat route in the Netherlands. It passes all eleven Frisian cities: Leeuwarden, Sneek, IJlst, Sloten, Stavoren, Hindeloopen, Workum, Bolsward, Harlingen, Franeker, and Dokkum. The total distance is approximately 200 kilometers.
Each city has its own character: Leeuwarden buzzes as the provincial capital, Sloten is the smallest town, Hindeloopen is known for its harbor, and Harlingen has a rich maritime history.
Note the clearance height: maximum 2.50 meters. With some boating experience, the route is manageable.
Groningen Route (4–7 days)
The Groningen Route connects Friesland with the province of Groningen. Via Leeuwarden and Dokkum, you navigate through the Lauwersmeer to the city of Groningen. Groningen is a lively student city with a historic center, a mix of old buildings and youthful energy.
The route combines nature (Lauwersmeer) with culture (cities) and takes four to seven days. Suitable for boaters with some experience, particularly because of the open water of the Lauwersmeer.
Routes for Experienced Skippers
Some routes offer extra challenges for experienced boaters seeking something special.
Turf Route (7–10 days)
The Turf Route is the most challenging route. In the 16th century, peat boatmen created a network of waterways. Today, the Turf Route navigates these narrow canals through Southeast Friesland, West Drenthe, and North Overijssel.
Maneuvering through narrow canals requires skill and experience. This is not a beginner route. The reward: authentic Dutch villages preserving their character and pristine nature. Plan seven to ten days.
Note: only possible between May 15 and September 15.
Middelsee Route (2–3 days)
Historically, the Middelsee Route connected Leeuwarden and Sneek. Part of the original Eleven Cities Tour, long unpassable for motorboats. Now an alternative to the busy Prinses Margriet Canal.
The challenge: low bridges and many turns. You need a boat with a collapsible mast and max height 2.50 meters. Many bridges cannot be opened, so check your boat beforehand.
For experienced boaters with suitable boats, this route offers a quiet alternative. Less traffic than main waterways and more character.
Routes by Duration
Limited on time? Here are the houseboat routes matching your available days.
Weekend (2–3 days) – For a short weekend, the Woudaap Route and Middelsee Route are perfect. A day trip through De Alde Feanen with an overnight in a cozy village is also doable.
Short week (3–5 days) – Three to five days open up more options. The Frisian Lakes Route is ideal. The Aqueduct Route fits perfectly. A shorter version of the Groningen Route is also possible.
Full Week (5–7 days) – A full week allows for the most scenic routes. The Frisian Lakes Route takes five to seven days, showcasing all highlights of Southwest Friesland. The Lits-Lauwersmeer Route also fits this timeframe.
Extended Trip (7–10 days) – More than a week? The Turf Route or Eleven Cities Route become feasible. The full 3-Provinces Route can also be enjoyed. You may combine several shorter routes for a large adventure.
Practical Information
The boating season runs from April 1 to October 31. Bridges are staffed from 09:00 to 19:00 (June–August until 20:00). Some bridges have lunch breaks. Queue at waiting boats and pass quickly when the bridge opens.
Expect a cruising speed of 7–9 km/h. Add 5–10 minutes per bridge waiting. For longer routes, schedule rest days. Always check your boat’s clearance height in advance.
Mooring is possible at Marrekrite spots (free, in nature) or marinas (paid with showers and electricity, €15–25/night).
Which Route Will You Choose?
The choice is yours. With this information, you can pick the right houseboat route. Here’s a summary again:
First Time Boating? – Start with the Frisian Lakes Route or Woudaap Route. Both provide space to learn at a relaxed pace.
Nature as Priority? – Choose De Alde Feanen for pure tranquility or the Lits-Lauwersmeer Route for nature combined with wide-open spaces.
Want to See Cities? – The Eleven Cities Route or Groningen Route lead to the most beautiful historic locations.
Seeking Adventure? – The Turf Route offers a unique experience for experienced skippers.
Short Weekend? – Woudaap Route or Middelsee Route are perfect for two to three days.
For more details on each route, visit the website: detailed descriptions of 13 houseboat routes with maps and practical tips. Personal advice is also available. The best route is the one that fits you.