Theory Drachten

Sailing information

Important things While Sailing:

  • Always keep to the starboard side!
  • When passing fishing boats, canoes, houseboats, and moored vessels, reduce your speed!
  • Inland/commercial vessels may travel at 14 km/h; these vessels can approach from behind and overtake. Look behind you regularly!
  • Keep the center of the fairway clear for large ships.
  • Do not change course suddenly.
  • Display the correct navigation lights in time.
  • Do not anchor near bridges, locks, work vessels with extended anchors, or in the middle of a fairway.
  • Swimming in the fairway is prohibited, as well as near bridges, locks, and waiting areas.
  • Stay away from fishing nets. These are usually marked with black or yellow flags or a sign with a green/white diamond, where the green side indicates the safe passing side.
  • Boating under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. The legal limit on the water is 0.5‰. This is enforced, and fines are high!
  • Do not disturb the peace in nature and residential areas.

Speed

Maximum speed

  • Inland waterways: 7–9 km/h
  • In built-up areas: 4–6 km/h
  • Harinxmakanaal and Prinses Margrietkanaal: 12.5 km/h

In addition to the maximum allowed speed, it is also important to be a responsible skipper. Always consider the effects of your speed. Check the bow and stern waves created by your boat and pay attention to other waterway users and/or moored vessels. This means you should adjust your speed accordingly and slow down if necessary.

Navigation Rules

Hornsignals