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📋 Before you book

Do you need a boating licence on Lake Haltern?

The short answer: for the rental boats at Bootshaus Niehues you need no boating licence. Why that is, and when a licence would even be required, we explain here at your leisure.

You need no licence for our boats

Pedal boats, kayaks and canoes are moved by muscle power, that is by pedalling or paddling. For muscle-powered boats like these there is generally no licence requirement in Germany. So you can simply come, rent a boat and set off.

You get a short briefing on site: how to get in and out, how to steer and what to watch for on the water. That's plenty, even if you've never been on a boat before.

When would a licence be needed at all?

In Germany a licence only becomes mandatory for motorboats above a certain power (15 hp, or 11.03 kW). Since our boats have no strong motor, that doesn't apply to you.

What to bring instead

Instead of a licence, common sense counts most: follow the briefing, don't overestimate yourself or the children, and keep an eye on the weather. If a thunderstorm approaches, always head back to shore in good time.

Frequently asked questions

Do children need a licence, or may they steer?

No, no one needs a licence. Whether and from what age children may steer on their own is best settled briefly on site, together we make sure everyone is safe.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Being able to swim is always an advantage. Life jackets are part of the safety kit, just ask us for one on site.

Ready for your boat trip?

Right on Lake Haltern, no licence needed. Reserve your boat or check the current boat weather.

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