Driving rules

Driving Rules in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, there are various rules and regulations for boating that must be observed.
The most important are:Right-of-way rules, speed limits, license plate requirements, boat license requirements, and the use of life jackets.

Right-of-way rules:

Commercial vessels always have the right of way.

Vessels over 20 m: Must yield to smaller boats.
Starboard side rule: When meeting, overtaking, or crossing, the vessel keeping to the starboard side has the right of way.
Yield: Small vessels must yield to large vessels if the starboard side rule does not apply.

Speed ​​limits:

General: There are speed limits on certain waterways.

Shore area: Within a radius of less than 50 m from the shore, boats are only permitted to travel at 9 km/h.

Environmental protection areas: The maximum speed in these areas is 6 km/h.Visibility: In poor weather conditions that impede visibility, a speed limit also applies.
License plate requirement: 

Motorboats under 20 m must have a license plate if they can travel faster than 20 km/h.

Sailboats and rowing boats: Do not require a license plate, but must have a name and state their home port.

Boat license requirement:

Boats under 15 m do not require a license if they cannot travel faster than 20 km/h.

Boats over 15 m: Require a boat license, regardless of speed.

Boats faster than 20 km/h: Require a boat license, regardless of length.

Life jacket requirement:

Driver: On fast motorboats (faster than 20 km/h), the driver must wear a life jacket when standing at the helm.

Additional persons:Life jackets are not required for additional persons on board,

but it is recommended that each person have a life jacket on board to prevent fainting.

Additional regulations for "fast boats":Quick-stop device:

This must be present:

A fully operational fire extinguisher is mandatory.

The steering system must be stable.T

he exhaust must have a silencer that complies with noise regulations.

Be considerate:

Pay attention to other water sports enthusiasts and the surrounding area.

Keep your distance:

Be aware of waves and the wake of larger vessels.

Maintain visibility:

Check behind regularly to detect overtaking maneuvers.

Vignette:

A vignette is required to pass through Amsterdam.