Source: Press office
Holland is the country of water. It's been around for a long time a network of channels which includes 7600 junctions, which give the possibility of establishing the desired route by following splendid itineraries easily and independently.
But now a new network has been born, the “Sloop network” or “navigation network” for small electric or motor boats (the “sloops”) to navigate the canals, surrounded by nature and the wonderful Dutch landscapes.
I very silent “sloops” they are above all designed for day or half-day trips, as they are not equipped with a cabin to sleep in. However, there is the possibility of renting them for several days, taking advantage of the various overnight accommodation options available along the route.
Depending on the mooring possibilities, you can decide to disembark, visit a nearby city or site and then get back on board and continue the journey.
The network is already present in various regions of the Netherlands and is constantly expanding. New stops are added regularly, so as to always create new and different routes to discover Holland from the water.
Thanks to a "route planner" you can personally create a favorite route and download the itinerary map from the website or via the app. Through these tools you can set and modify the length and duration of your route, always following the network with the junctions indicated on the signs along the route. Further details are also provided, such as water depth indications, maximum heights and information on bridges and locks.
Various accommodation and dining options are marked on the hub map which allow travelers to enjoy their cruise in peace. In Den Helder and Andijk, for example, there are boats on which it is possible to stay overnight: these are real accommodations on the water, but cannot be used for sailing.
The locations of the rental companies along the route are also marked on the map. Each offers different types of boats, electric or not, which can accommodate from five to ten people depending on the type.
Along the canals of Holland you pass through villages and admire the beautiful ones mills Schermermolens, you pass through rural areas and towns overlooking the water. A very picturesque slow journey.
