Applying for an inland shipping certificate for pleasure crafts

Do you intend to sail a large pleasure craft in the Netherlands? For example, a motorboat or yacht with a length of 20 metres, or with a combined measurement of 100 m3 (length x width x draught) or more? If so, you usually need a binnenvaartcertificaat (inland shipping certificate). This certificate proves that you are the owner of the vessel. You can obtain an inland shipping certificate by applying to the classification societies or inspection bodies that have been approved by the Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport – ILT (Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate). 

Last updated on 30 November 2022

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Certification is mandatory

Do you own a large pleasure craft? If so, you must have an inland shipping certificate (in Dutch) The inland shipping certificate is mandatory for:

  • pleasure crafts with a length of 20 metres or more;
  • pleasure craft with a combined measurement of 100 m3 (length x width x draught) or more.

Zeebrief (Certificate of Registry) not mandatory

Do you intend to sail at sea with your pleasure craft? If so, you don’t need a zeebrief (Certificate of Registry). However, the advice of the ILT is to apply for a Certificate of Registry. The ILT website provides information on how you can apply for a certificate of registry.

Applying for an inland shipping certificate for pleasure crafts

Applications for an inland shipping certificate (in Dutch) are made by applying to a certification agency recognised by the ILT (in Dutch). The certification agency will remind you in good time when your inland shipping certificate is due to expire. This gives you enough time to renew the certificate.

Laws and regulations (in Dutch)

Binnenvaartwet, artikel 9

Binnenvaartbesluit

Binnenvaartregeling

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