Publication date: 28/02/2023 | Last updated: 07/07/2026
The IJsselmeer, a unique lake to explore by boat
The Lake IJssel, or IJsselmeer, was once part of the Zuiderzee. Today, thanks notably to the construction of the Houtrib dyke, or Houtribdijk, the area has been transformed into a large, particularly calm body of water, renowned for its sailing and easy access by boat.
Whether you’re out for a few hours, a day or a few days cruise, the IJssel lake offers a multitude of features for boaters like you to enjoy:
- Discover the local flora and fauna by sailing into the very heart of nature
- Fishing villages and historic towns such as Enkhuizen, Medemblik, Makkum, Hindeloopen, Stavoren, Lemmer, Urk…
- Unique landscapes and views of wind turbines, dykes, harbours and typical Dutch mills
- Museums and theme parks: the Rijksmuseum, Zuiderzeemuseum or Sprookjeswonderland in Enkhuizen, the Dutch Steam Engine Museum in Medemblik…
We bet you’ll enjoy sailing in this rich environment, which is comfortable and easy to explore by motorboat or sailboat.
Wondering what to do once you’ve circumnavigated the IJssel lake? The IJsselmeer makes it easy to sail to the surrounding lakes and waters, including the Wadden Sea, the North Sea, the Markermeer, the IJmeer, the Ketelmeer… Watersports enthusiasts will also be well served: the IJsselmeer and the surrounding lakes are the perfect destination for all kind of nautical sports.
Rent a boat on Lake IJssel at DEKO Marina Lelystad
Located on the southern shores of Lake IJssel, the DEKO Marina Lelystad harbour is the ideal starting point for discovering the exceptional sailing area of the IJsselmeer. You can rent all types of sailboats at the marina from Brug Jachthverhuur, a trusted partner of the Port Adhoc Group since 2011.
Brug Jachtverhuur boasts a vast fleet of perfectly maintained and fully equipped sailboats. From 30 to 46 feet, from the sportiest (Beneteau and Bavaria) to the most luxurious (Hanse and Bavaria): there’s choice for everyone!
Hire a boat a few miles from Lake IJssel at Lelystad Haven
On the neighboring Markermeer lake, but right next to one of the Houtribdijk locks, the harbour of Lelystad Haven is ideally located for exploring the IJsselmeer. You can rent a sailboat in the heart of the marina from one of the Port Adhoc Group’s partners, Ulrich Mittler Yachtcharter, and make the most of your charter immediately: in just a few minutes from the marina, once you’ve passed the lock, you’ll already be sailing on the IJssel lake.
If you choose to rent a boat in our Lelystad Haven harbour, you’ll also be able to take advantage of all the marina facilities, which are available to you free of charge. The Club Port Side floating restaurant, for instance, is a great address right on the marina, ideal for a meal after a day’s sailing.
Would you like to take advantage of our marina in Lelystad, or are you planning another sea trip the next day? You can also sleep on site! Hotel De Lange Jammer is a quality establishment located nearby, where you’re sure to enjoy a pleasant stay.
Rent a boat on IJsselmeer from our marina in Lelystad
A partner of our Lelystad Haven’s marina and the Port Adhoc Group in general, Ulrich Mittler Yachtcharter is a trusted yacht charter company. Specializing in marine tourism for over 30 years, it boasts a fleet of several quality charter sailboats. Bavaria 36/3, Bavaria Cruiser 33.2, 36/3, 37.3 or 46/4, Bavaria C42… There’s always a boat to suit your needs, ready to go! Visit our marina in Lelystad Haven soon to discover our facilities, meet our partner and bring your project to life. And if sailing a charter boat on the IJsselmeer makes you want to buy your own yacht, we can provide you with a year-round mooring solution in our Lelystad Haven harbour or in one of its sisters marinas. Please contact our team to discuss your requirements!
Hiring a boat on the IJsselmeer from Flevo Marina Lelystad
Located directly on the IJsselmeer, Flevo Marina Lelystad is an ideal starting point for exploring this vast and beautiful stretch of water. You can hire a sailing boat right at the marina through KM Yachtcharter, a trusted partner of the Port Adhoc Group. From the harbour, you’ll be out on the lake within minutes, no lock, no detour.
f you choose to hire a boat from Flevo Marina, you can also take full advantage of all the marina’s facilities. The restaurant Aan Ut Water, located right at the marina, is an excellent option for a meal after your day on the water. And if you’d like to extend your stay, accommodation is available on site, including the Wasserchalets, for a night as close to the water as possible.
KM Yachtcharter, your hire partner at Flevo Marina
A partner of Flevo Marina, KM Yachtcharter is a boat hire company specialising in sailing on the IJsselmeer. With a fleet of well-maintained, fully equipped sailing boats, you’re sure to find a vessel suited to your level and the size of your crew.
And if the experience inspires you to get your own boat, our teams are on hand to help you find a permanent berth, at Lelystad or at any of our other Port Adhoc marinas!
