De Vlaamse Waterweg

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

User Guide

Users looking for additional explanations and detailed information about the use of the Flanders Boating app can download a user guide via the link below. This guide was last updated on 30 March 2026.

Download User Guide in Dutch (PDF)

Instruction Videos

The main steps involved in using Flanders Boating are also explained in the videos below:

Installing the app
Signing in / creating an account
Linking a mobile phone number and configuring permissions
Managing and sharing vessels
Requesting bridge operation

Step 1: Installing the App

Learn how to install the Flanders Boating app on your smartphone and where to find additional support.

Step 2: Signing In / Creating an Account

See how to sign in to Flanders Boating using a VisuRIS account or easily create a new account.

Step 3: Linking a Mobile Phone Number and Configuring Permissions

Link your phone number to the Flanders Boating app and discover which permissions can be enabled for optimal operation.

Step 4: Managing and Sharing Vessels

We demonstrate how to manage your vessels in Flanders Boating and how to share them with other users.

Step 5: Requesting an Operation

We show how to request the operation of movable bridges and hydraulic structures through Flanders Boating.

Questions & answers about the new recreational boating app. (updated: June 30th 2026)

What does the new app do, and who is it for?
Since April 3rd 2026, the free app Flanders Boating is 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.
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 Flanders Boating. 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).
At present, these two methods cannot be used together: you must therefore choose either the app or the marine radio to request your shifts.
The shift instructions you receive are binding in both cases: anyone who is unable or unwilling to take part in a scheduled shift must cancel their request via the app or the marine radio.

Exceptions :
1. If you stay on a route without structures, you do not need to download or use the app.
2. The Flanders Boating app works in combination with a waterway permit. In a limited number of zones, this permit does not apply. In those exceptional cases, you can still request an operation via telephone or VHF radio.
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.
How do I install and use the app Flanders Boating?
Flanders Boating is available in the App Store and Google Play, in four languages. Instruction videos and a manual are available elsewhere on this page.
The telephone helpdesk is available from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at +32 15 672 101.
From 1 July 2026, it is mandatory to use either AIS and VHF radio, or the app, when submitting an operation request.
What if I can’t find the app in the App Store or Google Play?
The app was developed for smartphones with Android 11 or later and iPhones with iOS 17.5 or later. Flanders Boating cannot be used on tablets or iPads.
If you install the app on an older operating system, the app may freeze.
The app is only available to App Store and Play Store accounts registered within the EU or in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the UK, the US, South Africa, and Switzerland.
What if I don't receive a confirmation text message to link my mobile phone number?
The text message containing the confirmation code is sent from the public numbers 8128 or 8459 (via Belgian mobile network operators). Please check that these numbers are not blocked on your device, and check whether your messaging app automatically filters short numbers. On some devices, this is the default setting, but you can easily change it.
If you enter an incorrect mobile phone number, request a new code and do not use it, or enter an incorrect code more than five times in a row, you can request a new code after one hour.
Users outside the EU are strongly advised to use a SIM card from an EU operator. Functionality with SIM cards from other regions cannot be guaranteed.
How can I see my vessel in the app?
Log in with your VisuRIS account and you will see an overview of your vessels. 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.
Each user with whom a vessel is shared must have the app installed and a VisuRIS account. Both are free.
Until the validity period of your waterway licence has begun, your vessel will not be visible in the app.
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.
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.
What if my operation request submitted via the app is not answered?
If you have been waiting more than 15 minutes for your request to be processed, we recommend contacting the structure (lock or operable bridge) via VHF and/or by telephone. You can find both the VHF channel and the telephone number in the app (select 'more info' on the structure's detail screen) and on VisuRIS/EuRIS.