Zaanse Schans boat tour: the complete guide to sailing past the windmills

Why you should see Zaanse Schans from the water

Zaanse Schans was built around water. The windmills didn't end up on the Zaan by chance — they ran on wind and were supplied by boat. If you only walk the paths, you see the village from the back. From the water, you see it the way it was meant to be seen.

Our 30 minute boat tour takes a traditional sloop past the windmills, the green wooden houses and the banks of the Zaan. Not a large passenger ship, but a small boat with a skipper who knows the area.

What you'll see along the way

• The row of windmills on the Kalverringdijk — De Kat, Het Jonge Schaap, De Zoeker and De Huisman, all from the water.
• The green Zaan houses — The characteristic Zaan green with white trim, right on the bank.
• The Zaan itself — Still a working river, with historic warehouses and industrial heritage.
• Water and meadow birds — Herons, grebes and cormorants are part of the trip.

When is the best time to sail?

• Early morning — Still water, few people on the paths, perfect reflections of the mills.
• Midday — The liveliest moment; the mills are turning and the village is busy.
• Late afternoon — Warm, low light on the sails. The best time for photos.

Sailing is possible all year round. Winter is quieter and barer, but the mills stand out sharply against the sky.

Practical information

1. Departure point: Lagedijk 32, 1544 BG Zaandijk — Boutique Hotel Zaandijk, jetty at the terrace.
2. Duration: 30 minutes.
3. Price: € 7.50 p.p.
4. Times: daily 10:00 – 17:00.
5. Clothing: it's cooler on the water than ashore; bring an extra layer.

Ready to step aboard? View the cruises and come by the jetty.