Discover your next adventure and book a boat tour in Switzerland here. Switzerland is considered the water castle of Europe. So it's no surprise that there are more than enough opportunities for boat tours on the more than 1500 Swiss lakes and rivers. The experience on the water is intense, relaxing and full of views. The view of the surrounding landscape and mountain panorama makes the boat trip perfect.
If you want to drive yourself, you need a boat driver's license from a prescribed boat size of sport boats. The skipper's license is valid in Switzerland as proof of qualification and authorization to drive pleasure boats. It is mandatory from an engine power of 6 kW (8 hp). On Lake Constance, it is required from 4.4 kW (6 hp). For sailboats it is required from 15 m² sail area (on Lake Constance from 12 m² sail area).
Where can I get a boating license for my pleasure boat trips?
You can get this at motorboat schools after theoretical and practical exams. An eye sight test is also required.
Can I drive a sport boat myself on a booked boat tour as a beginner?
There is a possibility to drive yourself even without a boat license. You will get a detailed briefing about the safety rules, the driving behavior and the right of way rules when driving a motorboat. After this instruction you can - under professional observation - drive the boat yourself. However, you cannot acquire a boat license in this way.