What is required for a civil wedding on a boat in Amsterdam?

  • Thomas van Loon
  • 🕐 6 min leestijd

Getting married in Amsterdam is already something special. But getting married on the water, while the canals glide past you and your guests are on board? That’s an experience no one will forget anytime soon. A civil wedding on a boat in Amsterdam is possible, but there’s more to it than you might think. From official permits and the right paperwork to choosing the perfect boat and route — this article lays it all out clearly for you.

What exactly is a civil wedding on a boat?

A civil wedding is an official marriage ceremony conducted by a civil registrar. It is the legally valid form of marriage, as opposed to a religious or symbolic ceremony. When you want this ceremony to take place on a boat, it’s referred to as a floating wedding or a waterborne wedding venue.

What makes a civil wedding on a boat so unique is that the boat itself serves as the wedding venue. The registrar is present on board, speaks the official words, and you sign the marriage certificate while Amsterdam unfolds around you. It’s an intimate and one-of-a-kind setting that stands in stark contrast to the classic town hall or traditional wedding room.

Is it legally permitted to get married on a boat in Amsterdam?

Yes, it is. In the Netherlands, it is legally permitted to get married on a boat, provided certain conditions are met. The boat must be within the boundaries of the municipality of Amsterdam at the time the ceremony takes place. A civil registrar from Amsterdam must be willing to officiate the ceremony on the water.

Not every municipality automatically allows this, and not every registrar is available for a location outside the town hall. It is therefore important to contact the municipality of Amsterdam well in advance to confirm that your desired date and location are feasible. In practice, many Amsterdam registrars are happy to participate in a wedding on the water, but be sure to book well ahead of time.

What permits and documents are required for a wedding on the water?

This is the part where many couples run into complications. There are several things you need to arrange:

  • Marriage notice: You must file a notice of intended marriage with the municipality of Amsterdam at least two weeks before the wedding date. This is a legal requirement.
  • Venue approval: The municipality must approve the boat as a wedding venue. To do this, submit the name of the boat, the operator, and the planned route.
  • Identification: Both partners must bring a valid form of ID on board.
  • Witnesses: You need a minimum of two and a maximum of four witnesses, each of whom must also carry valid identification.
  • Prenuptial agreement (optional): If you wish to draw up a prenuptial agreement, this must be arranged through a notary before the ceremony.

The boat operator will typically hold a navigation permit for Amsterdam and ensure the vessel meets all safety requirements. However, the administrative side of the wedding itself is your responsibility as a couple.

How do you choose the right boat for a wedding ceremony?

The choice of boat largely determines the atmosphere of your day. Consider the number of guests, the style you’re going for, and the kind of experience you want to offer. A small salon boat for twenty people feels very different from a larger vessel for a hundred guests.

Key things to consider when choosing:

  • Capacity: How many guests are you bringing? Make sure the boat is spacious enough for everyone to sit comfortably during the ceremony.
  • Cover: Weather in the Netherlands is unpredictable. A boat with an enclosed salon or a retractable roof provides greater peace of mind.
  • Facilities: Think about on-board catering, a bar, a sound system for music, and a suitable spot for the registrar and the couple.
  • Style: Classic salon boats exude elegance. Modern vessels have a sleeker, more contemporary feel. Choose what suits you as a couple.

We are one of the few operators in Amsterdam with boats large enough to host a full wedding. While most companies only offer small dinghies or compact salon boats, our fleet includes vessels that can accommodate up to 175 guests. This makes it possible to organize the entire wedding on board, including dinner and a reception. Visit getting married on a boat in Amsterdam for an overview of what we offer.

What does a civil wedding on a boat in Amsterdam cost?

The costs consist of two parts: the municipal fees and the cost of the boat.

  • Municipal fees: The municipality of Amsterdam charges a fee for performing the marriage ceremony. This varies depending on the day (weekdays are cheaper than Saturdays) and the type of registrar (a staff registrar or a one-day registrar). Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred euros to over a thousand euros.
  • Boat costs: This depends on the size of the vessel, the duration of the cruise, and the arrangements you choose. A simple two-hour cruise for a small group starts at a few hundred euros per person, while a fully catered wedding with dinner and a reception on board naturally requires a larger budget.

For a general overview of available packages and pricing, visit our arrangements page. Every wedding is different, so a personalized quote will give you the most accurate picture.

Which canal routes are best suited for a wedding cruise?

Amsterdam has dozens of kilometers of canals, but not all routes are equally suited for a wedding cruise. The most beautiful and atmospheric routes run along the Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht — the classic canal ring listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wide canals, historic canal houses, and graceful bridges make every photo a celebration.

Other popular choices include:

  • The Amstel: Wide, peaceful, and offering stunning views of the city. Perfect for a romantic atmosphere.
  • The IJ: For a more urban and industrial backdrop, with views of Central Station and the modern architecture of Amsterdam North.
  • Combined routes: A cruise that begins on the canals and ends on the IJ or the Amstel combines the best of both worlds.

Our skippers know Amsterdam inside and out and know exactly which route combines the best light, the calmest waterways, and the most photogenic spots. All you have to do is enjoy the moment.

How Rederij de Nederlanden helps you get married on the water

Rederij de Nederlanden is one of the few operators in Amsterdam that can take care of the complete experience surrounding a wedding on the water. From an intimate ceremony for thirty guests to a grand wedding celebration for over a hundred people — we have the boats, the expertise, and the packages to make your day unforgettable.

  • A choice of multiple vessels, from classic salon boats to larger event ships
  • Full on-board catering: appetizers, drinks, dinner, or buffet
  • Experienced skipper and hostess included
  • Personal advice on route, catering, and planning
  • Option to fully customize the cruise to your wishes

Want to find out what we can do for your wedding? Learn more about us or request a no-obligation quote and we’ll be happy to think along with you.

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