Publication date: 08/20/2025
This is also the reason why more and more German boat owners – especially from NRW, Lower Saxony, and the north – are opting for a smart alternative: a long-term berth in Holland.
Especially around the IJsselmeer, modern marinas offer safe, well-equipped, and surprisingly affordable annual berths – with much more flexibility and transparency than in many German areas. Whether for a season, the whole year, or permanently: a fixed berth in Holland often means less stress – and more time on the water.
What is a long-term berth – and who is a berth in Holland worthwhile for?
A long-term or annual berth is more than just a parking space for your boat. It is your home port, your maritime base for the entire season – or the whole year. Instead of searching every spring and hoping that a spot becomes available somewhere, a fixed berth finally gives you planning security.
Who is a long-term berth in Holland worthwhile for?
- For leisure sailors who want to get on the water regularly without having to spend ages calling around or improvising
- For weekend boaters who simply want to set off relaxed on Friday evening without much planning stress
- For working people with little time, for whom every free hour counts
- For long-term berth holders with a second home or camper at the harbor
- For owners looking for a place to winter their boat, where they can get straight back on the water in spring without having to transport the boat back and forth
The advantages of a long-term berth in Holland at a glance
- No annual search for a free spot
- No waiting lists or last-minute cancellations
- Noticeable cost savings compared to seasonal single bookings
- Can be combined with winter storage, crane service & technical support
- All-round service thanks to well-thought-out infrastructure and direct access to workshops
- Personal service and communication on equal terms
- Comfortable facilities for longer stays
- Exclusive to Port Adhoc Marinas: The loyalty program with great benefits
Advantages of an annual berth in Holland compared to one in Germany
Many boaters from Germany reconsider every year where they should keep their boat – and repeatedly get annoyed about rising costs, full harbors, or insufficient service. Those who look beyond the border quickly realize: In the Netherlands, things are often more relaxed, better organized, and sometimes even significantly cheaper.
4 advantages of a long-term berth in Holland
1. Fairer prices & transparent offers
In popular German areas like the Baltic Sea or Lake Constance, an annual berth for a 9–10 m boat quickly costs €2,500 or more – almost always plus electricity fees, winter storage, and crane services.
In Holland – for example in Lelystad – comparable annual spots start at around €1,300–2,300, often including water, electricity, well-maintained sanitary facilities, and access to winter storage and technical services. There are no hidden costs, no nasty surprises – instead, clear calculations.
2. Shorter or no waiting lists
While German marinas are often bursting at the seams, many Dutch harbors still have free capacity – also for permanent berth holders. Especially in well-connected regions like Lelystad, you are warmly welcomed and not put off like in Germany.
3. More service, better infrastructure
Whether indoor winter storage, modern crane systems, shipyard service, or digital booking systems: many marinas in the Netherlands are technically top-notch. Wi-Fi, electric charging stations, and well-kept facilities are often standard today – especially in harbors like Flevo Marina Lelystad or Deko Marina Lelystad, where you can expect great amenities.
4. Easily accessible – ideal for sailors and boaters from NRW & Northern Germany
From Düsseldorf, Cologne, or Osnabrück, Lelystad can be reached in 2.5 to 4 hours. If you set off on Friday, you’ll already be sitting on board in the evening – without a ferry, without crossing the Alps, but with plenty of sailing fun right on your doorstep.
Overview: all 8 Port Adhoc marinas in the Netherlands
- Marina Muiderzand (IJmeer)
- Jachthaven Naarden (Gooimeer)
- Jachthaven Bruinisse (Grevelingenmeer)
- Marina Cape Helius (Haringvliet)
- Jachthaven Strijensas (Hollands Diep)
- Top marina for Germans: Lelystad Haven (Markermeer)
- Top marina for Germans: Flevo Marina Lelystad (IJsselmeer)
- Top marina for Germans: Deko Marina Lelystad (IJsselmeer)
Loyalty program for members of the Port Adhoc network
As briefly mentioned at the beginning, there is an exclusive loyalty program for those who have a long-term berth in one of the Port Adhoc marinas (this also applies to the Port Adhoc marinas in France and Sweden).
If you have an active annual or seasonal contract for a water berth, you enjoy 28 free overnight stays per year in Port Adhoc marinas that are not your home port. Ideal for a summer vacation at an absolute bargain price or for a discovery tour through the Netherlands.
And in all dry harbors, you can enjoy a 10% discount on selected services such as handling or indoor and outdoor storage.
These 3 marinas offer especially attractive long-term berths in Holland for Germans
If you, as a German boater, are looking for a long-term berth in the Netherlands, Lelystad offers three well-connected, excellent options – plus one of the most beautiful sailing areas in Europe right at your bow. All three marinas have different focuses, so you can find exactly the harbor that matches your boat, budget, and personal preferences.
The family marina: Lelystad Haven – relaxed & family-friendly
This marina stands out with its laid-back atmosphere, easy accessibility, and attractive prices – ideal for families, weekend sailors, and anyone looking for a straightforward way to get started.
Especially suitable for:
- Families
- Small to medium-sized boats
- Berth holders who like to visit spontaneously
Advantages:
- Easily accessible by car
- EV charging station for cars
- Slipway, trailer parking, dinghy storage
- Fair annual rates starting at €1,200
The technical marina: Flevo Marina Lelystad – year-round use & high technical standards
Flevo Marina Lelystad is the right choice for owners with high expectations regarding technology, service, and infrastructure. With heated indoor winter storage, its own crane, and direct shipyard access, Flevo Marina is perfect for permanent berth holders and large yachts.
Especially suitable for:
- Owners of technical or larger boats up to 40 meters
- Seasonal or year-round users
- Those who value on-site service
Advantages:
- 40-ton crane
- Heated indoor winter storage
- Slipway, dinghy storage, trailer parking
- Annual berths from approx. €1,300
The luxury marina: Deko Marina Lelystad – quiet, well-kept, and comfortable for connoisseurs
If you value peace, design, and a refined premium atmosphere, Deko Marina Lelystad is the right choice. The berths are spacious, and the facilities are modern and elegantly designed – ideal for those who appreciate comfort and style.
Especially suitable for:
- Owners with high standards
- Long-term berth holders with a motorhome or second residence
- Couples who regularly use their boat but also like to leave it in a safe, quiet place
Advantages:
- EV charging stations for boat & car
- High-quality sanitary facilities
- 28-ton crane
- Annual berths from approx. €1,700
All 3 marinas in Holland have their own charm. Ultimately, your needs determine which one is right for you. All offer:
✔️ Modern pontoons
✔️ Clean sanitary facilities
✔️ Transparent pricing
✔️ Friendly, often German-speaking contact persons
Finding your ideal long-term berth in Holland
Questions to consider before choosing:
- Do you want to be there year-round or only in the sailing season?
- Is technical infrastructure (e.g., shipyard, winter storage, crane) important to you?
- Do you prefer peace and quiet or proximity to tourist attractions?
- How far can the marina be from your home?
- Is having a German- or English-speaking contact important to you?
Three recommendations for different needs:
Lelystad Haven – ideal for weekend boaters, and families
Advantage: straightforward, accessible, attractively priced
Flevo Marina Lelystad – ideal for permanent berth holders with technical requirements
Advantage: indoor storage, crane service, shipyard facilities on site
Deko Marina Lelystad – ideal for long-term pleasure boaters & owners with high standards
Advantage: quiet location, premium flair, modern facilities
Tip: Inquire early!
Especially for long-term and annual berths, early contact is recommended – particularly if you want to start in spring or autumn. Many marinas in Holland also offer on-site tours.
Research & compare online
Use the marinas’ websites, check reviews (e.g., on Google or boating portals) – and compare not just prices but also services. Important: Read the fine print – many Dutch marinas are refreshingly transparent and offer clear packages.
Finding your ideal long-term berth in Holland
Can I combine my annual berth with winter storage?
Yes – many marinas in the Netherlands (e.g., Flevo Marina Lelystad or Deko Marina Lelystad) offer combined packages for summer berths and indoor or outdoor winter storage. This saves time, money, and organizational effort.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Usually, you’ll get a fixed annual contract with an extension option. Many marinas offer regular customers a preferred renewal – long-term relationships are very welcome.
Are there flexible seasonal berths (e.g., summer only or winter only)?
Yes – alongside year-round berths, you can also book summer-only or winter-only storage. Ideal for weekend boaters or owners who charter their boat in summer.
How do I know which marina suits me best?
Besides checking the website, we recommend:
- Visiting in person
- Contacting them by email or phone
- Talking to other berth holders in forums or groups
💡 Tip: Many marinas in Lelystad also offer German-language advice.
What if I can’t use my boat every weekend?
This is exactly when a long-term berth in Holland is worthwhile. Your boat will be safe, well-kept, and ready for the next trip at any time. Deko Marina Lelystad, in particular, offers a quiet, high-quality environment for this.
We look forward to your inquiry and to finding the perfect berth for you!
