De Vlaamse Waterweg

Flanders Boating

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Adjustment of launch date and mandatory use of the new App in 2026

Due to additional functional features and the need to integrate recent cybersecurity developments within the Flemish Government, the app is being expanded and the obligation will be postponed.

Originally, the period from 1 January to 1 April was intended as a transition phase before the app became mandatory. Because of this integration, we have chosen to postpone the launch until 3 April, so we can deliver an optimal and secure product.

Availability: from April 3rd
Mandatory use for operation requests: from July 1st

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FAQ

 Questions & answers about the new recreational boating app.

  1. What does the new app do, and who is it for?
    From 3 April 2026, the free app will be available for skippers of pleasure craft and tourist passenger boats on the Flemish waterways. Other skippers without AIS or VHF radio obligations can also use the app.
    The app offers the unique functionality of location sharing and submitting operation requests for locks and bridges.

  2. Is use of the app mandatory, and when?
    On all waterways managed by De Vlaamse Waterweg, it will be mandatory as from 1 July 2026 to submit an operation request via AIS and VHF radio, or via the free app. Without a valid request, the operation may be refused.
    Both request methods are treated equally: the sequence is handled according to the FIFO principle (First In - First Out). If you stay on a route without structures, you do not need to download or use the app.

  3. What can I do with the app?
    • Share your location and select your vessel.
    • Track your position on a map.
    • Submit operation requests for locks and mobile bridges.
    • Receive feedback about your time slot and your position in the lock.

  4. How do I install and use the app?
    From 3 April 2026, the app will be available in the App Store and Google Play, in four languages. Instruction videos and webinars will be available on this website.
    The telephone helpdesk will be open daily from 8 am to 4 pm. The phone number will be communicated later.
    From 1 July 2026, it is mandatory to use either AIS and VHF radio, or the app, when submitting an operation request.

  5. How can I see my vessel in the app?
    Log in with your VisuRIS account and you will see an overview of your vessels.
    Don’t have an account yet? You can create one for free.
    Are you renting or borrowing a boat? The owner can temporarily share the vessel with you. You will see how to do this in the instruction videos.

  6. Do I have to share my location? Will my data be shared?
    Location sharing is mandatory when using the app, but your data will not be shared with third parties.

  7. What if I have no signal or lose my device?
    Your position will be automatically updated once your signal returns.
    If you lose your device, you can log in on another device using your VisuRIS account.
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