Legislation 2026: What’s changing in Belgium and the Netherlands?
Flanders focuses on digital monitoring
In Flanders, a reporting obligation for pleasure craft will be introduced from April 1, 2026. In practice, this means you will need to communicate your location at every lock or movable bridge along your route.
This can be done in two ways: via an AIS system combined with a VHF radio, or through a new free app from De Vlaamse Waterweg, available from January 2026.
This app not only helps you comply with regulations, but also makes boating more practical. You can easily share your location while navigating and submit operating requests for bridges and locks directly. This is expected to improve traffic flow and make infrastructure management more efficient.
The Netherlands focuses on environment and innovation
The Netherlands is also introducing several changes, with a strong focus on environmental protection and technological innovation.
Regulations on discharges will become stricter. From January 1, 2026, the so-called “sealed toilet” regulation is expected to come into force. This requires boat owners to seal off onboard toilet discharge systems to prevent waste from entering surface waters.
In addition, more room is being created for innovative solutions such as “Smart Shipping.” Autonomous navigation will be allowed under strict conditions, further modernizing the sector.
Stay alert to basic obligations
Alongside new rules, existing obligations remain just as important. In Belgium, this includes having a life jacket on board for every person and ensuring your navigation charts are up to date, whether digital or paper.
These may seem like basic requirements, but they are essential for your safety and that of others on the water.
Head out well prepared
Legislation can seem complex, but with the right preparation, it remains manageable. By regularly reviewing new regulations and adapting your equipment and procedures accordingly, you can avoid issues and continue to enjoy boating with confidence.
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