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How does the route planner work in the Waterkaarten app?

This video demonstrates how the route planner works.

Do you want to enjoy a hassle-free boat trip and explore the waters? Our route planner helps you get going! But keep this in mind before you depart:

Bridges and locks: Enter your boat dimensions in the app, and we’ll ensure smooth sailing under every bridge along your way. Please note: opening hours can change throughout the year. Always check the latest information in advance.

Waiting times: Allow for extra time when passing through bridges and locks, especially during busy periods.

Water depths: Although we display water depths as accurately as possible, they can change due to various conditions. Usually, this isn’t a problem, but please always keep the current water levels and tides in mind.

Shipping notices/alerts: We warn you about things like maintenance work or blockages on your route within the route list. However, make sure to stay up to date with the latest notices yourself as well.

Why is this important? We want you to be able to boat safely and hassle-free. That’s why it is important to remain proactive and not rely solely on the route planner. After all, boating is different from driving a car!

Tip: Plan your route well in advance and keep a close eye on the latest information regarding water levels, bridges, and locks.

In short: Our route planner is a handy tool, but remember to stay alert and, most importantly, enjoy your time on the water!

With the Waterkaarten app, you can plan your route in three different ways:

1. Plan a route

  1. Open the Waterkaarten app and make sure you are logged in.
  2. Tap the search bar at the top of the app. A new window will appear. In this window, choose the option ‘Plan a route’.
  3. Find your starting point by typing it into the search bar, or simply select your Current location or Home location from the list.
  4. Follow the same steps to choose your destination.
  5. The app will automatically calculate the best boating route for you based on the boat dimensions you have entered, including details on bridges, locks, operating hours, and any active shipping notices.
  6. Want to add an extra stop? It’s easy! Just tap ‘Add stopover’. You’ll find this option between your starting point and destination, marked with a blue plus icon. You can add multiple stops to each route.
  7. Be sure to check water depths, shipping alerts, currents, and weather info so you’re fully prepared before you set off.
  8. Click ‘Start’ to begin navigating your route right away. If you’d rather save the route for later, just tap ‘Save’.

2. Plan route manually

  1. Open the Waterkaarten app and make sure you are logged in.
  2. Tap the search bar at the top of the app. A new window will appear. In this window, choose the option ‘Plan route manually’.
  3. Drag the map until the orange symbol points to your desired starting location.
  4. For every extra point you’d like to add to your route, simply drag the map and tap ‘Add’.
  5. Tap ‘Done’ once your route is complete.
  6. Now, all you need is a name for your route so you can save it. Or, if you’re ready to go, you can start boating right away.

3. Plan route to a specific POI

  1. Open the Waterkaarten app and make sure you are logged in.
  2. Want to head to a spot you’ve discovered along the way – perhaps to refuel or to stay overnight in a harbor? Simply drag the map until you can see your destination.
  3. Tap on the relevant POI (a bridge, lock, or marina). Information about the location will appear at the bottom of the screen. Here, you can also find a handy ‘Route’ button.
  4. Tap the ‘Route’-button to choose your starting point. Then, tap ‘Starting point’ and ‘Search on the map.’ Drag the map until the orange pin points to your desired starting location and tap ‘Set starting point.’
  5. Alternatively, choose your starting point by typing it into the search bar – or use your Current location or Home location as the starting point.
  6. The app will calculate your route automatically based on the boat dimensions you have entered.

Tip: Please keep in mind that the route planner does not take water depths into account. Depths can change from season to season, day to day, and even hour by hour. Additionally, the route planner does not automatically include shipping notices or verify if a route is currently navigable. It is important to check these details yourself.

Many skippers plan a route in advance but don’t set sail until later. Because conditions can change, always double-check your pre-planned route before you head out on the water. Please let us know if you spot an error in a route, please let us know so we can keep improving.