Since June 25, 2025, the first of the new Gondoletta boats has been gliding through the scenic waterways of Efteling theme park. By the end of the year, all forty boats will be replaced, offering increased capacity and a fresh design. This upgrade elevates the beloved attraction while preserving its serene journey through the park’s natural beauty.
New Boats Boost Capacity and Comfort
The Gondoletta, a cherished highlight of Efteling, undergoes a complete overhaul in 2025. The first of forty new boats launched on June 25, with the remaining boats set to follow gradually from September to December. Project leader Bas Boertien notes that the replacement was essential after over thirty years of operation. The new boats accommodate eight passengers instead of six, thanks to a redesigned seating arrangement that shifts from three consecutive benches to two pairs of facing benches. This layout not only increases capacity but also enhances comfort, allowing guests to sit cozily in pairs facing each other.
Fresh Design with Fish Figurehead
The boats feature a revamped look, crafted by Efteling designer Bas van Rijsbergen. Each boat sports a redesigned stern and a fish-shaped figurehead, adding a maritime charm to the attraction. Starting in September 2025, all boats will display their final ornaments and accurate color schemes. These design updates create a modern, cohesive aesthetic that complements the park’s natural surroundings.
Collaboration with Intamin
Efteling partners with renowned Swiss attraction manufacturer Intamin for the boat refurbishment, a collaboration that dates back to the Gondoletta’s debut in 1981. This long-standing partnership ensures the new boats meet the park’s high standards for quality and reliability.
A Nature Experience on the Siervijver
Since 1981, the Gondoletta has offered guests a twenty-minute, covered boat ride across the Siervijver, a pond created in the early 1950s. Water makes up 13 percent of Efteling’s landscape, reflected in its ponds, rivers, fountains, waterfalls, and attractions. The Siervijver’s inaccessible island serves as a safe breeding ground for waterfowl and provides a picturesque backdrop. From the new boats, visitors enjoy stunning views of the natural scenery, making the Gondoletta an unforgettable experience.
