Do you need a boating license for a sloop?
A sloop is the perfect boat for a wonderful day on the water. They are not so big that they are difficult to drive, but big enough to go boating with a group. Not surprisingly, sloops are becoming increasingly popular. Have you purchased a sloop yourself, or perhaps you are considering renting one soon? Then you are probably wondering what license you need for a sloop. When you purchase boat insurance, you will be asked if you have a boating license. Don't have a boating license? Then this is not always a problem, because you do not have to have a boating license for every boat. At Alpina.nl , we explain whether you need a boating license for a sloop.
When do you actually need a boating license?
You do not need a boating license for every boat. Whether you need a boating license depends on two factors:
- The length of the boat
- The maximum speed of the boat
In the Netherlands: can the boat go faster than 20 km/h, or is the boat longer than 15 meters? Then you need a boating license. The same rules apply in Belgium as in the Netherlands, but other countries may have different rules. France, for example, distinguishes between sailing your own boat and renting one. In Spain and at Ibiza and Mallorca you need both Boating License 1 and Boating License 2 in most situations.
What boating license for a sloop?
A sloop is certainly no longer than 15 meters, and in most cases cannot go faster than 20 mph. That means you do not need a boating license to drive a sloop. In recent years, however, faster sloops have been on the rise. These are sloops that have the speed of sport boats, with the convenience of a normal sloop. These boats are also called fast-running sloops or tender sloops. A boat must be able to go faster than 20 mph to fall under the heading of fast sailing. Therefore, you do need a license to drive a fast-moving sloop.
Frequently asked questions about boat licensing for a sloop
Do I need a boating license to rent a sloop?
Renting a sloop is particularly popular during the summer months. On warm days, Dutch waters are full of sloops, motorboats and sailboats. Renting a sloop without a boating license is not a problem, because a normal sloop does not require a boating license. Would you like to rent a fast sailing sloop? Then you will need a license.
Do I need a boating license for an electric sloop?
The same rules apply to an electric sloop as to a regular sloop. If the boat can go faster than 20 km/h and/or is longer than 15 meters, you need a license. The electric sloop has a limited top speed, and therefore in principle you do not need a license.
Boat insurance for your sloop? Calculate the premium right away!
If you have purchased your own sloop, then boat insurance is worth considering. By insuring your sloop, you can go out on the water with peace of mind. For example, you can choose a third-party boat insurance. After all, an accident is in a small corner. Thus, the damage you cause to others is covered. These costs can be high in case of personal injury. You can also choose the more extensive WA + full hull boat insurance. Then damage to your own boat is also covered.
Calculate your boat insurance premium right away!
We can be reached via chat, WhatsApp, phone or email
Questions? Contact us if you want to know more.
We are here today until 6 p.m.