Sailing and water-based recreation Oostzaan
Discover Oostzaan from the water - Through ditches, canals and open water
Oostzaan has strong ties to the water. To the west of the village lies the Oostzanerveld, a characteristic peat meadow landscape of narrow plots, ditches and canals that is best explored from the water. To the east lies Het Twiske, where, in addition to sailing and canoeing, other forms of water-based recreation are also available. Choose a sailing route, hire a canoe or boat, and discover the landscape from a different perspective.
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Boating routes in Oostzaan
Boating routes in Oostzaan
Follow a boating route through the Oostzanerveld, Het Twiske and the surrounding water-rich landscape.
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Canoe and boat hire
Canoe and boat hire
Don’t have your own boat or canoe? Find out where you can hire equipment and get out on the water yourself.
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More water recreation
More water recreation
From swimming and fishing to diving: discover the water-based activities available around Oostzaan.
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Water-based recreation in Het Twiske
Water-based recreation in Het Twiske
Discover the beaches, lakes and other opportunities for recreation on and by the water in Het Twiske.
Boating through Oostzaan and the Oostzanerveld - From narrow ditches to open lakes
From Oostzaan, you can follow various boating routes through the water-rich landscape. One route takes you through the narrow ditches of the Oostzanerveld, whilst another heads towards the larger lakes of Het Twiske. Choose a route that suits your experience and the time you have available, and check the latest route information and conditions on the water in advance.
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1. Twiskeroute
The Twiske Waterway stretches for approximately 16 kilometres through the Oostzanerveld and Het Twiske. Along the way, you’ll sail through a varied landscape of peat meadows, ditches, reeds and open water. The area forms part of the Ilperveld, Varkensland, Oostzanerveld & Twiske Natura 2000 site and is important for various bird species.
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2. The Fens route
The Vennenroute lets you discover the water-rich landscape of Het Twiske from the water. The signposted route takes you past meadows and nature, offering various spots along the way to pause and take in the scenery.
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3. Oostzanerveld and Zaandam
This waterway route connects Oostzaan with Zaandam and passes through the Oostzanerveld and on towards the Jagersplas, amongst other places. Low bridges, narrow waterways and open countryside alternate along the route. Always check the latest route information and navigability in advance.
Boating trip through the Oostzanerveld
Those who prefer not to sail themselves can explore the Oostzanerveld on a guided boat trip. On the Koeman Express, you’ll sail through the peat meadow landscape on a flat-bottomed boat, whilst a guide tells you more about the landscape, nature and life on and around the water. Check with the operator for the latest sailing dates and options.
More water recreation - From swimming to diving and fishing
For other forms of water-based recreation, head to Het Twiske. The lakes offer opportunities for swimming, fishing and diving. Always check the latest information in advance regarding permitted activities, locations and conditions in the recreation area.
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Diving in Het Twiske
Het Twiske is home to an underwater park with various diving routes. Underwater, you can discover objects, wrecks and freshwater wildlife, amongst other things. Please check the current accessibility and diving conditions in advance.
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Fishing in Het Twiske
Anglers are also welcome in Het Twiske . There are various spots for fishing; please check in advance which rules, permits and locations apply.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Around Oostzaan there are various boating routes through areas such as the Oostzanerveld and Het Twiske. Check the latest route information and conditions in advance.
Yes, thanks to its many ditches and canals, the Oostzanerveld is well suited to exploring from the water. There are routes and opportunities to set off in a canoe or small boat.
In and around Oostzaan, there are providers offering canoe, SUP and boat hire. Check with the provider for the current range of services, opening hours and terms and conditions.
As well as boating and canoeing, Het Twiske offers opportunities for swimming, fishing and diving, amongst other activities. Always check the current rules and conditions in advance.
The Oostzanerveld forms part of the Natura 2000 site Ilperveld, Varkensland, Oostzanerveld & Twiske. Please therefore be mindful of the natural environment, peace and quiet, and any access rules that may apply.