There’s a big variation of boat companies in Leiden city, but to venture more outside the city for a longer route, the private electric sloops of Columbus Watersport are perfect. Their boat pickup and starting point is conveniently located on the edge of Leiden with free parking space. With several routes to choose from we went for the 3 hour route to de Kaag this time, number 3 on the map.

With Columbus Watersport you can either choose to rent an electric sloop for 8 or 12 persons, to sail on your own without a license. Prices start from €99 for 2 hours, with €35 for every extra hour. Or you can rent a bigger boat or more luxurious private canal cruise with captain.

Highly recommended as it leads you past wide fields, windmills, quaint villages like Warmond, Oegstgeest and even the stunning Oud Poelgeest Castle, if you know where to look:)