Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling with Waterbus. From tickets and OV-pay to bringing bikes on board, parking, and travel times, here you’ll find practical information for your trip.
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On board
Is there a restroom on board?
Yes, every water bus is equipped with a restroom. If the restroom door is locked, please ask the steward for assistance.
Are dogs allowed on board?
That's allowed, but only if the dog is on a leash and behaves well. Dogs that cause a disturbance may be refused entry by our staff.
Am I allowed to wear clothing that covers my face on board?
No, face-covering clothing is not permitted on board the Waterbus.
Schedule
How do I get to the windmills at Kinderdijk?
Starting October 6, 2025, we will be operating the new WaterShuttle to Kinderdijk on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Please visit the website for the schedule and more information.
How will I be notified of cancellations or delays?
You can see delays on the DRIS signs at the stops, on our website, in this app, on social media, and in the trip planner.
How long does a trip on the Waterbus take?
We operate on a fixed schedule. You can easily check the travel time in the trip planner. There, you’ll also find any transfers you might need.
Which Waterbus routes are currently in service?
Line 20 runs between Dordrecht Merwekade and Rotterdam Erasmusbrug. Line 22 runs between Dordrecht Hooikade and Papendrecht Veerdam.
Where can I find a travel planner or travel advice?
On the website and in this app, you'll find our trip planner with up-to-date routes, times, and transfers.
What if the water bus is delayed?
That's a bummer! But luckily, at least you're still better off with us than stuck in traffic ;-). And of course, we'll keep you well informed through our trip planner.
Is the water bus a good idea for an outing?
Absolutely. And be sure to use it for a romantic getaway—that way, you'll be on the same page right away ;-).
Stop / dock
Where do I check in and check out?
At our stops, there are blue poles where you check in and out before boarding.
Can I park at the bus stops?
Parking is limited or requires a fee in Rotterdam, Dordrecht, and Zwijndrecht. Check out our overview on the website for the P+R locations.
Customer Service
Can I take photos on board?
Yes, that's fine for personal use. For professional use or publication, please contact us at info@aqualiner.com.
How do I submit a complaint or question?
We take your question or complaint seriously. Please call us at +31(0)85-4895191, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We’re happy to assist you.
I lost something on board. Who should I contact?
Have you lost something? That's a bummer. Check out our "I Lost" page, and we'll do our best to help you.
I have a tip for Waterbus—where can I submit it?
We really appreciate your input. Please send an email to info@aqualiner.com; we’d be happy to take your suggestion into consideration.
Punctuality
What happens if I'm late?
Then you literally missed the boat ;-). But luckily, we operate several water buses. We recommend checking our trip planner to find the next departure.
Accessibility
Can I use the water bus if I'm in a wheelchair or on a mobility scooter?
Yes, all water buses are accessible to wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Only on our Type 2400 model do we assist you with a ramp at the steep ramp.
Can I bring my cargo bike or scooter on board?
You can bring your bike for free. Scooters and cargo bikes are allowed on board at the steward’s discretion. Sometimes it gets crowded, so thank you in advance for your understanding.
Will I get help boarding the ship?
You must be able to board the ship on your own. The flight attendant will be happy to assist you if necessary.
The gangway has just been retracted—now what?
Once the boarding bridge is raised, you can no longer board the plane. We do this for your safety. Therefore, always follow the flight attendant’s instructions.
How wide is the gangway, what is its slope, and what is the maximum weight limit?
The ramp has a clearance width of 1.65 m; the slope averages 11%, depending on various factors. The maximum allowable weight is 1,000 kg.
Ticket
How do I plan my trip on the water bus?
The trip planner is available on the website's homepage. The planner shows you the travel options available for your chosen time and route. It also takes any transfers into account.
What kind of ticket do I need?
You can travel with a valid ticket, an OV-chipkaart, or using OVpay. If you don't have one, you can easily buy a ticket on board or in our online store.
Does my Waterbus Tourist Day Ticket give me access to the WaterShuttle and Kinderdijk?
Unfortunately, no. The Tourist Day Ticket is only valid on the regular Waterbus routes. As of October 6, 2025, Waterbus no longer operates service to Kinderdijk. Since then, this route has been served by WaterShuttle, a tourist line with its own schedule between Rotterdam and Kinderdijk.
Can I buy a ticket on board?
Yes, you can do that at the ticket counter. Just keep in mind that this is more expensive than an e-ticket or traveling with OV-pay or an OV-chipkaart.
Can I change or cancel an online ticket?
Of course, there may be times when you need to change your ticket. That's no problem, but you'll be responsible for any associated fees.
How long is a ticket valid?
Your ticket is valid only on the selected date.
The flight attendant isn't coming by. Can I travel for free now?
No, you always need a valid ticket. If you don't have a ticket, you may be fined.
Something went wrong with OVpay. Where can I get more information?
On the OVpay website, you can view your travel details and the costs incurred.
I have a question about my public transit chip card.
You can ask any questions about the OV-chipkaart on the OV-chipkaart website.
I checked in using my debit card on my phone—can the flight attendant see this?
Yes, hold your phone up to the scanner so the flight attendant can see that you've checked in.