Boating in the Veenkoloniën

Boaters are kindly welcomed in this area by the bridge keepers. Boats can be moored in the centre of Veendam or at the moorings in Wildervank and the Pekelas. Dozens of characteristic drawbridges are operated for boating guests during the boating season, from May to September. From the Veenkoloniën, there are good boating connections to Zuidlaardermeer and Germany, for example. From the water, the richness of the Veenkoloniën is even more apparent.

The 'Knoal sailing route' shows various places of interest along the canal from Bareveld to Munnekemoer. It depicts the history of the peat-colonial area, the canal and neighbouring towns. The sailing route is distributed to all boating tourists entering 'Het Stadskanaal'. This route can also be used as a cycle route. You can download the route here.

The waterway from Nieuw Amsterdam/Veenoord to Ter Apel is known as the Veenvaart. With the opening of the King Willem-Alexander Canal, between Erica and Ter Apel, it is now possible to sail throughout Drenthe. The canal runs through a remarkable area with unique natural scenery and characteristic ribbon villages. Along the Veenvaart, you’ll see a wealth of cultural heritage, including monuments, local museums and works of art. You can also visit beautiful spots in the countryside, such as the Bargerveen nature reserve and the Bourtanger Moor in Germany. There’s plenty of space and tranquillity. Furthermore, this area is also ideal for a walk or a cycle ride.

The 'round Veendam' route starts in Winschoten and heads east to the Pekel Aa, which turns south. Past the Winschoterhoogebrug, you soon end up at Oude Pekela. View the route here.

On the western outskirts of Veendam lies the extensive Borgerswold leisure park. Here, there are various opportunities for canoeists to enjoy their sport. During the summer months, you can hire canoes from the Borgerswoldhoeve in Veendam. Motorised boats are permitted on the sailing lake in Langebosch. The maximum speed is 6 km/h. This is to maintain safety and tranquillity on the lake and to prevent damage to the banks.

This route connects the Zuidlaardermeer with the touring boat network in eastern Groningen. You can sail by boat from the Zuidlaardermeer directly to the Langebosschemeer in Wildervank. View the route here.

Some bridges and locks in the province of Groningen are self-operated. Sometimes this can be done using a push-button or pull-cord, but in most cases you’ll need a ‘self-service key’. These are available for a deposit from the TOURIST INFORMATION Veenkoloniën, amongst other places. The boating season runs from May to September. During the boating season, the bridges can be opened from Monday to Sunday (from 8.00 am to 12.00 pm and 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm). Passage is free of charge.