Proud Skippers of Lier

Since 1979, we’ve been taking visitors on unique journeys across the Inner Nete, the beating heart of our beautiful city.

From Eel Fishers to Tourist Skippers

In the early 1900s, brave Lier locals navigated the Nete in sturdy flat-bottom boats, searching for the best catch. These ‘eel turners’ used a unique technique: a square net was lowered to the riverbed and held at an angle by the current, allowing eels to swim in. Every five minutes, the net was raised using a turning wheel – hence the name ‘eel turning’.

In 1932, about thirty eel fishers joined forces to become stronger together. Their flat-bottom boats had no sail or engine and moved with the Nete’s tides, which flowed downstream for nine hours and upstream for two to three hours. The fishers let themselves drift to their fishing spots and returned home the same way.

When eel fishing was legally banned in 1974, our fishers had to give up their beloved craft. But the Brave Boat Fishers wouldn’t be discouraged! In 1979, we began offering tourist boat tours on the Small Nete in Lier’s center. Our flat-bottom boats, now equipped with outboard motors, have since offered visitors a unique perspective of the city.

In 1982, honoring our fifty years of existence, we received the title ‘Royal’. Since then, we’ve dedicated ourselves to enhancing Lier’s tourism appeal. A boat trip with us is truly a must-experience activity!

Our Mission: Discovering Lier from the Water

Our enthusiastic volunteers, born and raised in Lier, love sharing our city’s hidden stories and secrets.

During a 45-minute tour, you’ll discover Lier’s most attractive spots, including the Hof van Geetruyen, city park, Beguinage (UNESCO World Heritage site), Zimmer Tower, the Werf, Fish Market, Saint Gummarus Church, Mosdijk, the famous Aragon Bridge, the Fortuin, and the Spui. Our guides will also tell you about the ‘Pottekesnete’…

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Happy visitors enjoyed a boat trip through our beloved Lier during our previous season.

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Enthusiastic volunteers ensure unforgettable tours through Lier each season.

1250

Tours completed last year - rain or shine, we keep sailing!

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Authentic eel boats make up our historic fleet.

Our Tours: Something for Everyone

We operate annually from April 1st to October 31st,
on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 14:00 to 17:30.
In July and August, we operate daily starting at 14:00.

Classic Cruise

Classic Cruise

Explore beautiful Lier from the water!

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Aperitif cruise

Aperitif cruise

Enjoy drinks and snacks during a wonderful boat tour.

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Group Arrangements

Group Arrangements

A fun boat trip with your whole crew.

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Wedding Boat

Wedding Boat

Make your wedding day extra special on the water.

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“Step aboard and become part of our story. Let yourself be carried away by the waters of Lier and discover the city as you’ve never seen it before. The Royal Brave Boat Fishers warmly welcome you!”

Maurits De Smedt

Chairman Royal Brave Boat Fishers