Information

It goes without saying that you, as our guest, have the choice of hundreds of sailing and motor yachts. On that score, we're not likely to disappoint you. Top of Holland has something for everyone. On this website you will find chartering firms located in boating areas all over the Netherlands. We wish you suitable weather! With us the sun always shines.

Top of Holland-service.
The sailing area.
No license? No problem!
Sailing is not difficult! Instructions?
Which ship do you choose?
Which period of the year?
Alternatives that make your holiday unforgettable.
Rental and insurance.
Confirmation and reservation.
International fairs.


Service

'If you have any problems along the way, one phone call to a Top of Holland charterer is enough'. 7 days a week, with their own service department. Whereever you are, as a Top of Holland guest, you are cordially welcome at all charterers! This advantage saves you time and energy. It is important to us that you continue your holiday as soon as possible.


License

No navigation licence is required for a Top of Holland yacht. 

No Dutch navigation licence is required' for steering a motor or sailing boat of less than 15 metres, a feature which is convenient for you and your crew,

You are expected, however, to be acquainted with the rules of the waterways. Any Top of Holland charterer can tell you all about these rules.


Instructions

Is your experience with a motor or sailing yacht limited, and does this lack makes you reluctant to charter a boat? Feel free to ask for written and oral instructions from the staff of the chartering firm of your choice. After an hour's instruction and a trial cruise you feel yourself a born skipper. If you want further instructions, these can be provided as well. You will find the most important rules of the waterways in Holland in a booklet on board.

With good charts, tourist tips and an almanac, you easily find your way to the loveliest spots. If you want to enjoy an agreeable boating atmosphere, with lots of fresh air in lovely surroundings, we suggest you cruise at your leisure and forget the speeds of the highway!


Which ship

If you want to charter a yacht for the first time, you probably have many questions. Some of them will be answered on this website. For good advice and the answers to all your queries, the Top of Holland charterer is the obvious choice.

You must first decide between a motor yacht and a sailing boat; a small boat or a larger one; a simple model and lay-out, or all the luxury available. Obviously, a larger vessel offers more space, but this factor depends on the number of persons who will be aboard. Also bear in mind the height of the tallest family member!

Your choice further depends on the experience of the crew members and the area concerned. A smaller boat means, apart from a lower rate, the advantage of easier manoeuvring when passing under low fixed bridges - and that your cruising area therefore is much larger.


Which period

At Top of Holland, the season for chartering a motor or sailing yacht runs from the beginning of March to mid-November. You may be interested in knowing in connection with your holiday plans, that prices are lower during off-season. Ask at the charterer about the chance for a short trial cruise of a larger vessel on quiet waters. Or charter a sailing boat once instead of a motor yacht, or vice versa. In principle, the season begins at Easter and lasts until autumn, with the waters of Holland twice at their loveliest.

 Also consider a mid-week or weekend arrangement, at attractive rates. During off-season, there are numerous recreational options on shore as well.


Insurance

Top of Holland yachts are all-risk insured. The deductible sum depends on the boat and charterer, but the sum usually varies from Dfl. 350,- to Dfl.1.250,-.

On departure, you pay this sum as a deposit, and it is refunded if the boat is returned clean and in good order. You are naturally expected to comply with the charter period agreed. You may pay the deposit in cash or by cheque.


Confirmation and reservation

Immediately after your booking by phone and written reservation of the boat of your choice, assuming it is free, your Top of Holland character will send you a charter agreement. Sign and send this back right away. At the same time, you are expected to transfer 50% of the total rental sum by bank or giro (or Eurocheques to a limit of Dfl. 300,- each).

After receipt of this payment instalment and the signed contract the reservation of your holiday yacht becomes definitive. You make the second payment three weeks before the start of your holiday. As already said, you pay the deposit and any extras on the first day, before departure.

If you want cancellation insurance, you can arrange it along with the charter agreement. Without this insurance you are in all cases obliged to pay the full charter fee. The premium for cancellation insurance is 4% of the charter sum, plus policy charges and, if desired comprehensive risk coverage.