The Best Dutch Water Sports: From Sailing to Surfing

The Netherlands is a country that is famous for its water sports. With over a quarter of the country lying below sea level, it’s no wonder that Dutch people have become experts in water-based activities. Whether you’re looking to sail, windsurf, kiteboard, stand-up paddleboard, or surf, there are plenty of fantastic options in the Netherlands. In this blog post, we will explore the best Dutch water sports, from sailing to surfing.

Sailing

Sailing is one of the most popular water sports in the Netherlands. With over 6,000 kilometers of coastline and countless lakes and rivers, there are plenty of excellent sailing locations in the country. Some of the best places to sail in the Netherlands include the IJsselmeer, the Wadden Sea, and the Zeeland waters. Sailing boats in the Netherlands range from small dinghies to large yachts, and there are plenty of sailing classes and courses available for all levels of experience.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is another popular water sport in the Netherlands. The country’s flat landscapes and windy climate make it an ideal location for windsurfing enthusiasts. Some of the best places to windsurf in the Netherlands include Scheveningen, Brouwersdam, and Ouddorp. These locations offer ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Kiteboarding

Kiteboarding is a relatively new water sport in the Netherlands, but it has become very popular in recent years. The country’s beaches and strong winds make it an excellent location for kiteboarding enthusiasts. Some of the best kiteboarding locations in the Netherlands include the North Sea coast, IJsselmeer, and Grevelingen. There are plenty of kiteboarding schools and courses available in these locations for those looking to try this exciting sport.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a relatively new water sport in the Netherlands but has quickly gained popularity in recent years. The country’s numerous canals, lakes, and rivers offer the perfect location for this sport. Some of the best places to SUP in the Netherlands include the Amsterdam canals, Utrecht’s canals, and the Vecht river. Stand-up paddleboarding is an excellent way to explore the Dutch waterways while enjoying a great workout.

Surfing

Surfing may not be the first water sport that comes to mind when thinking of the Netherlands, but the country’s North Sea coast offers excellent surf conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers. Some of the best surfing locations in the Netherlands include Scheveningen, Zandvoort, and Texel. Dutch surf culture is also thriving, with plenty of surf schools and surf camps available for those looking to try this exciting sport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Netherlands is a fantastic destination for water sports enthusiasts, with plenty of options available for all levels of experience. Whether you’re looking to sail, windsurf, kiteboard, stand-up paddleboard, or surf, there are plenty of excellent locations in the country to explore. So, grab your wetsuit, pick your favorite water sport, and head to the Netherlands for an unforgettable experience on the water.