In the Netherlands, you can sail without a boating license on boats that are smaller than 15 meters and cannot exceed a speed of 20 kilometers per hour. This determination is based on the speed over the ground, not the horsepower of the engines.
When can I boat without a boating license?
In recreational boating, we have Klein Vaarbewijs I and II. With a boating license, you can operate boats between 15 and 25 meters long, as well as boats, water scooters, and jet skis capable of speeds exceeding 20 kilometers per hour. Vaarbewijs I is for navigating canals, rivers, and lakes. Vaarbewijs II is required for larger water bodies such as the IJsselmeer, the Wadden Sea, and the Westerschelde.
Without a boating license, you can operate boats up to 15 meters long at speeds up to 20 kilometers per hour.
How do I obtain my boating license?
You can obtain your boating license from the CBR (Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing). You must be at least 18 years old and fill out a medical health declaration. The exam for Vaarbewijs I includes questions on legal regulations, handling propulsion systems, knowledge of waterways and meteorology, and navigating and maneuvering under special conditions. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and you must correctly answer about 70% to pass. The exam fee for Vaarbewijs I is €45.35. The license card itself costs €10.80.
A sample question for Klein Vaarbewijs I:
A small boat is moored as depicted in the diagram. The loop of the red line is secured to a bollard starboard aft, and the red line passes behind a post on the shore. The line is not fastened to that post but continues to a bollard starboard on the foredeck, where it is secured. Additionally, the blue line is extended transversely from the bow to a bollard on the shore. Refer to the diagram. What is correct?
A. The boat can move forward and backward freely, and the bow is not properly held against the shore. Therefore, the boat is not properly moored.
B. The boat can move forward and backward freely, and the stern is not properly held against the shore. Therefore, the boat is not properly moored.
C. The boat cannot move freely forward and backward, but the stern is not properly held against the shore. Therefore, the boat is not properly moored.
D. The boat cannot move freely forward or backward. Both the bow and stern are properly held against the shore. Therefore, the boat is properly moored.
The correct answer is option B.
Klein Vaarbewijs II
Klein Vaarbewijs II is focused on navigating larger waters. This exam includes questions on the Navigation Regulations for the Westerschelde, Navigation Regulations for the Eemsmonding, the BPR (General Police Regulations for Inland Navigation), and the regulations for the Canal from Ghent to Terneuzen. Additionally, you will face navigation questions, need to determine a course, be familiar with the IALA-A and Signi buoyage systems, and understand the basics of meteorology. The exam for Klein Vaarbewijs II consists of 23 multiple-choice and 4 open-ended questions. You pass if you correctly answer 70% or more of the questions. For this exam, you will need a chart plotter, parallel ruler or triangle, and a ship’s divider.
Sample Question for Klein Vaarbewijs II:
You are sailing on the Markermeer between Marken and Enkhuizen. The wind is causing white foam caps to form. What is the wind force according to the Beaufort scale?
A. 3 Bft
B. 5 Bft
C. 7 Bft
The correct answer is option B. The description of wind force 5 includes: “Rising dust affects eyes, waves have crests on lakes and canals, and garbage cans may tip over
How high are the fines for boating without a boating license?
If you operate a boat without a boating license, you can receive a fine. Fines on the water have been significantly increased in recent years. Operating a fast boat without a boating license can cost you around 600 euros.
Can you operate Varen met Sil’s boats without a boating license?
You can operate all of Varen met Sil’s boats without a boating license. The boats do not exceed 20 kilometers per hour in speed and are not longer than 15 meters. Whether you want to go on a sailing vacation, sail the Eleven Cities Tour, or spend a day on the Lauwersmeer, it’s no problem. We are happy to provide you with a brief boating lesson and some explanations.
Which of our classic boats will you take on a sailing adventure?
