BoatNow

Based in Amsterdam, BoatNow operates as a real-time booking platform for private boat tours, primarily on the city's canals. The company was founded in 2017, with its origins tracing back to the bachelor's thesis of founder Freek van Koolbergen. With over a decade of experience as a skipper on Amsterdam's canals, van Koolbergen developed the initial concept by analyzing the supply and demand for local boat tours.

The business functions as an intermediary, connecting customers with a wide selection of licensed boats and professional captains from various local shipping companies. This asset-light model, sometimes likened to an 'Uber for boats', is facilitated through a dedicated website and mobile application. The platform generates revenue by taking a commission on these bookings. Users can browse, compare, and book boats, with options for immediate rental or advance scheduling. A key feature is the "Boat Now" service, which aims to have a customer on the water within an hour of booking.

The clientele is diverse, encompassing individual tourists and local residents seeking leisure cruises, as well as corporate clients for business events. The company has organized events for notable firms such as Spotify and Booking.com. The platform offers a curated fleet of over 100 vessels, categorized into types like open boats, classic saloon boats, and larger boats for groups exceeding 20 people. All rentals include a licensed captain and adhere to local safety regulations. Customers can select from more than 150 pickup locations across Amsterdam, allowing for customized tour routes.

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