In the Dutch Christmas tradition of Sinterklaas, a steamboat traditionally carries him when he arrives in the Netherlands.
The arrival is known as the intocht van Sinterklaas. In the familiar story, Sinterklaas travels from Spain by steamboat and comes ashore at a Dutch town or city. A televised national arrival has been a prominent part of the modern celebration since the mid-20th century.
After arriving, Sinterklaas is commonly shown traveling on a white horse. That horse is associated with his appearances after the boat journey, not with the vessel that brings him to the Netherlands. This distinction explains why “steamboat” is the traditional answer.
Sinterklaas’s feast is celebrated on December 5, Sinterklaasavond, especially in the Netherlands and parts of Belgium. The character is linked historically to Saint Nicholas of Myra, a Christian bishop associated with generosity toward children.