Boats prohibited in Amsterdam canals for ice skating

As of today, boats are not allowed on the canals in Amsterdam.

The prohibition is meant to make it possible for ice to form on the water, so that the Amsterdammers can skate. Skating on natural ice is a favourite pastime for the Dutch, and especially skating on the canals in Amsterdam is popular.

In February 2012 ice skating was also possible on the Amsterdam canals (see pictures below). Then, this was the first time in 15 years the canals were frozen over enough for ice skating.

It is customary in Amsterdam to block the canals for boats when a longer frost period is expected.
Waternet already closed the Eenhoornsluis lock at the beginning of the Prinsengracht canal, yesterday, to ensure that water can no longer stream in the canals.