amsterdam canal cruise best

9 Best Canal Boat Tours In Amsterdam & Your Questions Answered! [2024]

Amsterdam has many canal cruises, but which is best for you? Which one is the most worth taking? No one tour caters to all. I’ve taken some of the best canal tours and will share how to pick the best one for yourself, professional tips, and answer all your questions.

Table of Contents

Which Canal Tours to Take?

This post provides detailed information to help you choose the best canal trip. Click here if you wish to see the best boat tours in Amsterdam right away .

Most Asked Questions When Booking A Canal Tour

You might have some questions about Amsterdam canal tours; I have listed them here.

Is It Worth Doing A Canal Cruise In Amsterdam?

Yes, especially if you visit Amsterdam for the first time.

Taking the canal tours allows you to see the historical and beautiful canal houses, understand Amsterdam’s history, and experience the Dutch vibe on a boat.

You might hear some people saying it is not worth it, but they probably didn’t pick the most suitable tour for themselves and didn’t join a good rating tour. That is why I have this post, so you have the best canal tour experience.

Is It Necessary To Book The Tickets In Advance?

Yes, especially if you take small boat tours or evening dinner cruises . Why?

You won’t find ticket offices selling small boat tours; most only sell big ones. That is why you need to book in advance. In addition, the tours I recommended in this post are top-rated, so be sure to book them in advance.

For dinner cruises, there’s only one boat per evening. Spots are limited!

Do Amsterdam Canal Boats Have Bathrooms?

There’s a toilet on board for big boats, but I advise you to use the bathroom before taking the tour. (You can find the public toilets in Amsterdam here)

For small boats, unfortunately, no restrooms!

How Long Is Amsterdam Canal Ride?

In general, it takes around 60 to 90 minutes. Some tours, like dinner and evening cruises, can take about 3 hours.

Where Do Canal Cruises Leave From In Amsterdam?

There are three places: Damrak, close to Amsterdam Central Station; Near Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum.

Most tours depart from Damrak, but I recommend boat tours from Anne Frank House and canal tours from Rijksmuseum since it’s less busy, and you can rest more on the boat after visiting the nearby attractions.

Is the Amsterdam Canal Cruise Better At Night Or Day?

It depends on personal preference.

A day cruise offers better visibility, and the natural light during the day provides excellent lighting conditions for capturing the city’s beauty.

An evening canal cruise offers a romantic and enchanting atmosphere, with the city lights illuminating the canals and landmarks. It is also a good option if you want to see the sunset views in Amsterdam. It’s more relaxing, too, since fewer people are on the street than in the daytime.

Taking A Big Boat or A Small Boat Cruise In Amsterdam?

It depends on what you prefer and what you like; here are the pros and cons of taking big and small boats:

Pros And Cons Of Taking A Big Boat Canal Trip

Some benefits:

• More affordable as more guests are on board
• Have multiple language audio guides for the guests, great for people who need more confidence in English.
• Have semi-open boats, which means you won’t get wet or need a raincoat when it rains. The captain closes the deck once it rains and opens it when it’s sunny.
• The heating system is on in winter; there is no need to bring an extra coat to get on the boat.

Some disadvantages:

• More than 80 people are on board, and the guests don’t get much interaction with the captain/guide
• The trip is with an audio guide, not a live guide
• The standard route might be a bit boring for some people

An excellent choice for people who see comfort as their first priority.

Pros And Cons Of Taking A Small Boat Cruise

some benefits:

• More chances to interact with the guide as there are much fewer guests
• Have a live guide on board
• Some tours include drinks and snacks
• Some tours might be canceled due to heavy rain; please check the details when reserving the spots. However, don’t worry about it from May to early September
• Although some boats have a heating system and most provide blankets, it might still be cold for some guests.
• It’s highly recommended to reserve before leaving for Amsterdam, as there are limited spots only.

A perfect option for people who like fun, interactive tours and want to have local experiences.

Best Canal Cruise Tours In Amsterdam

Here are the best canal cruises in Amsterdam; they are with high rating reviews, and I experienced some of them ourselves:

Cheapest 1-Hour Canal Tour In Amsterdam

Big boats are the cheapest option since more people are on the boat.

It costs EUR 18. Stromma and Lovers are the leading companies offering canal cruises in Amsterdam.

**Here is the special deal for my readers if you book with Tiqets, use the link below to get the lowest price. The link is already applied with the dicount code (CANALCRUISE10).**

Suppose you book the canal tickets together with Rijksmuseum or Heineken entrance tickets. In that case, you get the highest discount for the canal cruise!

Pro Tip When Getting On The Boat

Take the seat in the middle of the boat! It’s a bit noisy at the front since the captain is constantly on the intercom checking the traffic, and it’s smelly if you sit in the back.

Luxury And Environment-Friendly Canal Boat Tours

Friendly, knowledgeable staff made this comfortable canal cruise very enjoyable. I would recommend this tour. Irmgard_C ( read more reviews )

If you prefer a luxury boat with a maximum of 30 guests, this tour is for you.

You can sit comfortably with the cushion by taking this electric, gas-free boat. In addition, there’s a live guide introducing the landmarks in Amsterdam, so you can ask any questions you have!

A big boat trip costs EUR 18, but this tour with a much smaller group only costs EUR 22. It comes with great value and good ratings; no wonder it sells out quickly.

My Experience With This Tour

I took this tour in late November, and I loved it!

Most canal tours come with an audio guide, but this tour has a live guide, which makes it much more enjoyable for a tourist. In addition, it’s with an electric boat, so there is no lousy air, and there are only around 15 guests on that day, so the quality is excellent.

The guide was funny and interestingly shared the old Amsterdam story. If you like interaction with the guide, there’s no problem. I sat next to the guide, so I asked him many questions.

If you decide to join this tour, book the tickets in advance as it is popular. In addition, be sure to get on the boat 10 minutes before departure to get a good spot.

Their boat departs from Central Station, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum!

Fun And No Smoking Canal Tours With Food And Drinks

Can’t say enough how I recommend this tour! James did an awesome job in giving us a tour, with just enough historical information that didn’t make it boring. The food was light but tasty. Dr inks were plenty. A.must do activity! Annette_T ( Check the more reviews )

This is the best canal tour I’ve joined. It has a high rating from past guests as well.

You get to interact highly with the tour guide and ask any questions you have during the cruise. Most important of all, you get on a non-smoking electric boat!

I don’t like smoking and even hate the smell of it; this tour does not allow guests to smoke, while some other small boats only prohibit it if the guests mind.

Their boat departs from Central Station and Rijksmuseum!

Smoking allowed Canal Boat trip With Drinks

Very funny and informative boat ride; not only could you smoke/drink on the boat, but our guide, Anthony and Graham, were amazing. Anthony was a hilarious host and even rolled a customers joint for them! Which I thought was pretty good customer service; the boat itself is stocked up with drinks, and it’s electric, so you can charge your phone, etc, while on tour. Would 100% recommend it as an eccentric alternative to a regular canal cruise! Morad_A ( read more reviews )

Want to take small boats in Amsterdam but also plan to smoke and have drinks? You need a smoke-friendly boat tour !

This tour is more than just a smoke-free boat trip; the tour guides ensure you have a fun ride and see plenty of Amsterdam in a chill way!

Since it is a top-rated tour, be sure to book the tickets in advance in case it is fully booked.

Usual Boat Trip: Pedal Boat

If you already experienced the canal cruise or want a different experience in Amsterdam, the pedal boat is for you.

Most tours come with a captain navigating the boat; this time, you can pedal the boat yourself.

You can design your own route and explore Amsterdam at your own pace. In addition, while most small tours do not allow bringing your own food, you can do that if you rent the pedal boat!

The best part is that one pedal boat can have a maximum of 4 people; it’s also an excellent choice for small groups and families!

There are two locations for the boat: Rijksmuseum and Leidseplein.

Hop-on And Hop-Off Canal Boat Ride

Amsterdam is a canal city; it is perfect to experience it by taking the hop-on and hop-off boat service.

It is ideal for people who want to enjoy a different type of transportation in Amsterdam. There are 8 stops in Amsterdam city center, so you can easily access the attractions by boat!

After Covid, only one company offers unlimited hop-on and hop-off boat service.

You can also buy a combination ticket to enjoy the Amsterdam street view by taking their sightseeing bus!

Private Canal Tours With A Tour Guide: For Small-Groups And Families

If you travel as a family or with friends, joining a private tour with a guide, who is also your captain, is a great idea.

Why not navigate the private boat yourself? There are many private and tourist boats in Amsterdam canals; you need quite some skills or talent if you are new. Besides, with a local guide, you can fully immerse yourself in Amsterdam and enjoy the beautiful canal view like a local.

Remember to bring your own food and drinks as they are not included in the tour!

Evening Dinner Canal Cruise

After a long day traveling in Amsterdam, you should have some good food and quality time to have a perfect ending to the day! That’s why the Evening Dinner Cruise is popular!

This 2-hour tour lets you enjoy a fantastic canal evening view and symbolic buildings in Amsterdam while savoring the local three-course menu dinner.

I joined this tour with some colleagues a few years ago, the atmosphere was cozy, and it was an evening I will never forget.

Luxury Dinner Cruise

If you wish for more privacy and a quiet evening dinner, join this 3-hour long three-course dinner tour with a maximum of 16 guests only . Most importantly, a private table is guaranteed!

Romantic Private Canal Cruise For Couples

Amazing! Relaxing and informative! The tour guide was patient, knew everything about the area, and included complimentary drinks and blankets. Absolutely wonderful would definitely recommend it. Jason_G ( Read more reviews )

Want to have an unforgettable canal tour with your loved one?

This private tour is only for you and your partner, no other guests onboard. Besides, the guide can customize this 90-minute route based on your preference, giving you a special and unique canal cruise experience.

This tour is very popular from April to October; if the evening private tour is not available, try their day tour!

In Conclusion: Which Canal Tour is The Best?

Many options exist, but I like Captain Jack Canal Cruises after taking big and small boat tours.

If you prefer to take tours without drinks, join the Flagship luxury boat tour , which has a high value in terms of price!

If you wish to have a dinner canal cruise, this tour offers a great experience . This private table dinner canal tour is perfect if you want more privacy.

Want a romantic evening with your loved one? Book this romantic private tour with a customized canal route!

Want to explore Amsterdam in an unusual way? Pedal Boat is for you!

hope you enjoy this post; you can read more about Amsterdam travel tips .

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16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With

Visiting Amsterdam without embarking on a canal cruise is like going to Rome without seeing the Colosseum!

Of course, you’ll surely spend a significant portion of your trip strolling alongside canals like Herengracht and Prisengracht, but there’s something magical about the city towering over you from the waters. 

Amsterdam has over 150 canals to its name, with almost as many boat tours on offer, too! In fact, you’ll likely spot dozens of canal cruises gliding through the waterways from the moment you arrive. 

The abundance of Amsterdam canal tours gives you lots of flexibility and choice, but it can be tricky to determine which cruises tick all your boxes and which will have you uncomfortably sandwiched between one too many passengers.

You might also be surprised that the variety of boat tours is endless, with cruises catering to just about every interest. Think romantic sunset sailing for couples, family-friendly excursions, and rowdy booze cruises for any party animals!

Below, you’ll find a collection of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam, featuring everything from trips that will be kind to your wallet to luxurious private outings for you and your crew.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Quick Lockdown of the Top Amsterdam Canal Cruises

• Most Budget-Friendly Canal Tour in Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Live Commentary and Audio Guide
• Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam for Families: River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes
• Most Exclusive Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drink s
• Best Amsterdam Canal Tour for a Special Occasion: Romantic Private Canal Tour and Prosecco & Snacks
• Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam for Party-Lovers: Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

1. classic boat cruise with cheese & wine option.

A quintessential boat ride in Amsterdam with a twist, this cruise will help you start crossing off many landmarks from your Amsterdam to-do list in style.

Although you can opt for the basic package without any add-ons, if you’re like me, you most certainly won’t regret elevating your trip with some delectable Dutch cheeses and tasty wines!

As you snack on your plate of Gouda and Edam, your hosts and skipper will be on hand to unravel the rich history behind sites like the Damrak Canal Houses and the Skinny Bridge.

Don’t let the idea of unlimited wine fool you into thinking that this is a party cruise! This tour is much more low-key and focuses on exploring the canals in comfort. 

2. Evening Canal Cruise

Even though first-timers are usually best to stick to daytime tours to get a closer look at Amsterdam’s staggering architecture and flower-covered bridges, after-dark cruises are also a fantastic opportunity that allows you to see the city in a whole different light.

Amsterdam is vibrant at any hour of the day, but I love witnessing the city light up when the sun goes down. Every walkway along the canal feels incredibly romantic, the cobblestone streets are full of life, and the canal houses become even more enchanting.

Over an hour and a half, you’ll get unparalleled views of famous sights like the Blauwbrug Bridge, A’DAM Lookout, and Rijksmuseum while your audio guide gives you all the need-to-know information.

If you’ve arrived before your dinner and are feeling famished, you can add a snack box to your ticket so you can nibble on popcorn, stroopwafels, and peanuts along the way!

3. Amsterdam City Canal Cruise

Packing in a myriad of Amsterdam hot spots into one trip, like Skinny Bridge and the Golden Bend, this excursion will have you arguing with your travel buddy over who gets the window seat!

You’ll have your pick of up to ten departure times each day, but if you have a particular date in mind, be sure to snap up your tickets ahead of time online, as the weekend and sunset spots frequently sell out quickly.

This won’t be a quiet and intimate cruise, but the vibe on each of these sailings still tends to be pretty relaxed as passengers get the low down on Amsterdam’s winding canals from an audio guide.

Much like the previous Amsterdam canal boat tours, you can select some treats to keep your hunger at bay during your outing.

Read Next: 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Itinerary

4. Canal Cruise with Live Commentary and Audio Guide

It’s rare to find boat rides in Amsterdam that feature narration from the captain and are also easy on the pocket. This is why this tour has rightfully earned its place among the best canal cruises in Amsterdam!

Not only will your skipper share little-known facts about life along the canals and Amsterdam’s fascinating culture, but you’ll also use your audio guide to get some extra insight into the many points of interest you encounter during your tour.

As well as being a fully electric boat, this vessel has another, rather strange, claim to fame, as it’s home to the smallest toilet in Amsterdam!

You won’t find drinks included in your ticket, but you can purchase some onboard if the summer sun is leaving you parched.

5. Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks

Only for the cheese and wine-filled cruise option I mentioned before, this evening tour just might have been my top recommendation!

It doesn’t get much better than pizza and a glass of wine at sunset as your captain stops by some of Amsterdam’s most eye-catching waterfront buildings and iconic sites.

Possibly, the only thing that can distract you from the beauty of this magical city is when you’re picking out your pizza on board! Five flavors are available, which you’ll pair with two drinks of your choice from a selection of wines, beers, and soft drinks.

A great middle ground that’s neither an upscale cruise nor a party boat, I think this tour fits the bill whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or with your pals.

6. River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes

From fresh pizzas to bottomless pancakes, the Dutch certainly know how to keep their visitors well-fed! In addition to the seemingly endless supply of pancakes provided, this tour is distinct from many other boat rides in that it focuses on a different part of Amsterdam. 

After you’ve topped your pancakes with your favorite fruits, jams, and cheeses, you can look out over the River IJ and spot contemporary buildings like the EYE Filmmuseum that have popped up just minutes from the typical streets filled with traditional Dutch structures. 

If your youngsters aren’t as enamored with the views as you are, there’s a playground on board to keep them entertained!

7. Hop-On Hop-Off Boat

When in Amsterdam, a hop-on, hop-off bus just won’t suffice! This hop-on, hop-off boat is a flexible sightseeing tour with 24 and 48-hour boat passes, allowing you to navigate the city on the water as you please, much in the same way as you would with traditional hop-on, hop-off bus packages.

With this option, you can choose between passes for the bus, boat, or both, though the boat pass is definitely the way to go for a unique and convenient Amsterdam adventure.

To make things even easier, the bus and boat boarding points are usually quite close together, which is fantastic if you’ve opted for the combined ticket.

Read Next: 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List

8. Open Boat Canal Cruise with Local Guide

For uninterrupted views of Amsterdam’s historic canal-side architecture, this open boat tour is hard to beat. 

Your onboard guide will fill you in on each captivating sight you pass and will have the answer to all your lingering questions if you want more in-depth insight into the Dutch way of life.

Over the course of an hour, your skipper will give you a glimpse of bucket list Amsterdam attractions like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. 

You’ll have an opportunity to get some stellar shots of the scenic Grachtengordel district, so have your cameras at the ready!

9. Semi-Open Canal Boat Cruise

Next up is the 1-hour Semi-Open Canal Boat Cruise with a partially open rooftop offering unbeatable views. The roofs of these ships are fully made of glass and run with zero emissions, so you won’t miss out on views regardless of the weather. 

This relaxing tour departs all throughout the day at various times and shows you the best of Amsterdam at a slow pace. Cruise through the historical center and spot all the landmarks you’ve dreamt about.

After you jump on your electric boat, you’ll be equipped with an audio guide you can listen to in between bursts of commentary from your captain if you wish.

10. Canal Cruise with Drinks and Bites

Gather your family and friends for this one ! Despite the name, this is not the type of cruise where you’ll spend the evening partying along the canals. While you can sip on a few Heinekens or wines, the ambiance onboard is mellow, and passengers old and young are all welcome.

As this boat is relatively small, your captain will drift along tiny canals many other tours can’t offer, letting you spot some fabulous hidden corners of the city unknown to many.

There will be a bunch of guides on hand during your 90-minute expedition to answer any questions you might have about any of the sights or the city itself. 

Each group leader puts their own spin on the tour, so no two journeys are the same.

To top it all off, you’ll be supplied with a platter of Dutch delights, including a selection of sweet and savory bites so nobody goes hungry.

11. Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Get ready for a night out while exploring the sights and sounds of Amsterdam on this party tour .

The drinks start flowing as soon as you climb aboard this lively boat, where you’ll have an hour of unlimited beer and wine to sip on as you sail under historic bridges and onto the Amstel River.

You’ll travel on a gorgeous, nautical-themed open boat during the warmer months or stay toasty inside a luxury enclosed vessel when the winter chill gets a bit too much.

With a huge range of time slots, you’ll have no problem fitting this boozy activity into your schedule.

Read Next: Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels

12. Smoke and Lounge City Boat Cruise

Combining two of the things Amsterdam has become famed for, this smoke-friendly Amsterdam canal cruise is a surprisingly rare tour.

You’ll need to leave the kids at home for this one, as this trip is filled with passengers dabbling in the city’s famous cannabis culture while taking in the views of Amsterdam’s mesmerizing canals.

Anyone planning to smoke up will need to bring their own stash, though you’re welcome to use the onboard supply of shishas for an extra cost. Opt for the 60-minute journey, and you’ll get a complimentary drink, while the 70-minute excursion supplies guests with two beverages.

13. Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise

Take your better half on a date night they’ll never forget on this cheese and wine-filled cruise . 

Each tour starts in the evening, meaning you’ll have the most incredible view in Amsterdam to watch the capital transition from day to night. 

Plenty of nibbles are provided, including a range of Dutch cheeses that pair perfectly with a few glasses of wine of your choice. 

This particular tour feels a little more upmarket than many of its competitors, though it still manages to have a casual vibe that attracts couples and friend groups looking to catch a dreamy Amsterdam sunset.

Perfectly-timed sailings like this truly make for some of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam.

14. Romantic Private Canal Tour and Prosecco & Snacks

Explore the city’s more sentimental side on this day tour as your guide takes you through spots like the Skinny Bridge and the Bridge of Love while you and your partner share some Prosecco, sweet treats, and traditional Dutch snacks.

For an even more intimate affair, I can’t think of anything more romantic than this nighttime cruise through Amsterdam.

Similar to the daytime version but even more romantic, your skipper will double as a storyteller during this heavenly journey, treating you and your loved one to Prosecco or mulled wine, snacks, and heated seats for those cold winter nights.

You’ll be glad to know that the rain can’t interfere with your date night, as each boat has a detachable roof to ensure nothing puts a dampener on your plans.

15. Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks

When it comes to the best canal tours in Amsterdam for big groups, it’s hard to argue that anything can top this BBQ cruise .

Exactly as the name suggests, your gang will have a deluxe boat to yourselves, where there’ll be a private chef onboard serving up mouthwatering BBQ favorites for two hours.

Fresh bread and colorful salads will accompany a selection of steaks, burgers, and chicken skewers fit for a king. Your chef can cook up veggie alternatives for each dish if meat isn’t your thing, ensuring everyone gets a good feed before the unlimited beer and wine takes its toll.

As superb as this already sounds, you’ll have all of this with Amsterdam’s iconic scenery as your backdrop.

16. Canal Belt Private Beer Boat Tour

If you’d prefer to pass on the food, this beer canal cruise will be right up your street.

A top pick for bachelors and bachelorettes who’ve come to Amsterdam to party, this plush boat can hold up to 35 of your nearest and dearest if you have a big friend group.

Your captain will take you through some of the most bewitching parts of town, pointing out tourist hubs and cultural hotspots on the way, but you’ll undoubtedly be more focused on the booze.

You’ll sample four of the tastiest Dutch beers across this 90-minute, fun-filled outing that will stay with you long after you’ve headed home.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

If you’re a first-time visitor, then you’ll want to stay close to the city center, and there are plenty of options.

De Pijp is the city’s bohemian quarter and home to some of the best bars and streetside cafes. If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, then Jordaan is an excellent option with its gorgeous 17th-century townhouses and top-class restaurants. Oud West is another charming area with leafy parks and plenty to do.

If you want to read more about the best areas to stay in the city, make sure to check out our in-depth post about  where to stay in Amsterdam .

For an unforgettable stay, browse through the list of the  best Amsterdam hotels with canal views or the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam .

In case you’re in a rush, here are my top hotel recommendations for different budgets.

• Luxury | Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam
• Mid-range | NH Amsterdam Schiller
• Budget | Bridge Inn

Planning a trip to Amsterdam?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Amsterdam. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Amsterdam hotel guides:

• Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels
• 24 Best Amsterdam Hotels with Canal Views
• 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam for an Unforgettable City Break

Amsterdam travel guides:

• 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List
• 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With
• One Day in Amsterdam: How to See the Best of Amsterdam in a Day
• The Perfect 2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary for First Timers
• 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect Amsterdam Itinerary
• How to Spend 4 Days in Amsterdam: Ultimate Itinerary for First Timers
• 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

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Canal Cruise Amsterdam

Amsterdam is known for its many canals and bridges. The city centre is practically a network of canals, along which you’ll find Amsterdam’s monumental 17th-century canal houses. This historical area is referred to as “Grachtengordel” which would be best translated as “Canal Ring or Canal Belt “. The unique architecture comes alive while viewed from the water and will leave a great impression. People often state that Amsterdam is best seen from the water. Find out whether that’s true by going on an Amsterdam boat tour yourself! We’ve compiled a selection of what we believe to be the best boat tours in Amsterdam. We’re sure you’ll find a cruise that suits your needs within this selection. Best of all, there’s often a discount when booking online! Are you travelling with a group or looking for a more intimate experience? Consider booking a private canal cruise ! Most boat tours in Amsterdam offer guided tours and cover the city’s main highlights and main Amsterdam’s attractions .

Our selection of the best boat tours Amsterdam

What is the best boat tour in Amsterdam? There are many options! Prices of the canal cruises go from around €15,- up to €90, depending on the duration and beverages included in the tours. Scroll down to see the various recommended options for a boat tour along the beautiful canals, or go directly to;

• Classic canal boat cruise; best price!
• Semi-open boat tour; best price for an open boat!
• Hop-on-Hop-Off cruise; see the city at your own pace!
• Canal bike: cycle your way through the water!
• Pancake cruise for the hungry sailors; enjoy unlimited pancakes!
• Small open boat cruise; enjoy the canals from a comfortable electric boat!
• New York Pizza cruise; combine your cruise with a pizza!
• Smoke & lounge cruise; a relaxed, marijuana-friendly cruise!
• 60-minute wine and cheese cruise; the highlights on a luxurious boat!
• Wine and Cheese evening cruise; enjoy a drink and a bite after sunset!
• Booze cruise; a great choice to get into the party mood, drinks included!
• 2-hour evening dinner cruise including drinks and a three-course meal!
• Luxury dinner cruise; 3-hour top-of-the-bill cruise including 3-course dinner!
• Private historical canal cruise: enjoy a 100-year-old boat!

You can’t leave Amsterdam without going on a canal cruise, as Amsterdam is best seen from the water!

Classical canal cruise daytime trip – 1 hour

The classical canal boat tour is always a good choice! These comfortable canal boats with glass ceilings and windows give you the opportunity to view the architectural highlights Amsterdam has to offer. In fall and winter, these boats provide you with cover against the weather so you can enjoy the city without feeling cold or getting wet.

Canal cruises are offered both day and night. What is the best canal tour for you is up to you to decide. Obviously, you’ll see more during the day and have better opportunities to take good pictures. However, if you are visiting Amsterdam with the love of your life, there’s nothing as romantic as cruising the canals at night! One of the best-known boating companies in Amsterdam is Lovers Canal Cruises . The boats depart from multiple locations throughout the city every 20 to 30 minutes. The route goes along all the highlights that Amsterdam has to offer. There are audio guides available in over 19 different languages. If you want to know if this is the right cruise for you, also read our full review of the Lovers 1 hour day time canal cruise . Purchasing tickets for your Amsterdam canal tour online will save you a few bucks and wait in the queue.

• Book a daytime cruise directly at Lovers.nl 
• Book an evening cruise directly at Lovers.nl 

– Order your tickets with our exclusive Tours-tickets.com discount code ‘THINGSTODO10’ and get 10% extra off –

Semi-open boat tour (cheapest open boat option) – 1 hour

Enjoy an Amsterdam canal cruise from an electric, solar-powered vessel. On these pollution-free canal boats, you’ll get to enjoy the city comfortably in silence, or as you wish with an audio guide available in several languages. On sunny days, the boat tops will be removed, so that you can freely enjoy the sights of Amsterdam. Therefore these cruises are also a perfect match when you want to take home some magnificent pictures. However, if the weather turns out to be a bit more Dutch than expected, a dry comfortable place is also guaranteed. The semi-open boats depart from the centrally located Raamsdonksteiger, a two-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station.

– Order your canal tour tickets with our exclusive Tours-tickets.com discount code ‘THINGSTODO10’ and get 10% extra off –

Hop-on-Hop-off cruise – over 1,5 hour tour during 24 hours

The Hop-on-Hop-off boat tour is the most flexible canal cruise in Amsterdam one can find. It allows you to see the city at your own pace. The boat tour takes you on a ride throughout the city. The canal boat stops at 7 different stops and you can get off at any point of choice. Among the seven stops, you’ll find Amsterdam Central Station, Rijksmuseum , the Albert Cuyp market , Anne Frank House , Gassan Diamonds and the Hermitage Museum . Feel free to get off at any point you like. Your ticket is valid for a full 24 hours between 9:15 and 19:00 and there are boats stopping every 25 minutes or so. In between the stops you’ll have plenty of time to visit one of the museums or do some shopping. When you’re ready to go back to finish the cruise no reservation is required, just hop on and hop off as much as you like . If you book your 24-hour ticket online you’ll be rewarded with €2,50 discount for each ticket and do not forget to use our discount.

The Hop on-Hop off cruises can also be booked for 48 hours and can be combined with a bus tour. Visit the following page on all available hop on hop off tours for more information and prices.

Rent a pedal boat

Looking for some playful fun out on the Amsterdam canals? Don’t miss out on the canal bike rentals! Become the captain of your very own pedal boat and cycle your way through the water. The canal bikes are a really cool way to cruise the canals of Amsterdam. This is also a fun thing to do with kids in Amsterdam . Do keep in mind that you won’t see as much of the city as with any sort of boat as it does take a lot of energy to keep the bike moving on the water. The canal bikes will offer you a good workout though and a great time. Especially when it is sunny outside.

Dutch pancake cruise – 75 minutes

Are you looking for a strong traditional Dutch meal including an Amsterdam boat tour? Look no further! “De Pannenkoekenboot” or pancake boat is the best Amsterdam canal tour for you! The boat tour will take you on a cruise over the IJ River, while you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat traditional Dutch dish. The Dutch pancakes are served with toppings of choice, including syrup,  fruit, chocolate, and marmalade, as well as savoury toppings such as bacon, Dutch cheese, and more! The boat departs from the Northern part of Amsterdam, which can easily be reached by the free ferry (NDSM F4) departing every 30 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station. The all-you-can-eat concept is a strongly recommended feast for both adults and kids! Half way the cruise, there will be a special surprise for the kids, as the hatch of the hidden ball pit opens and they can slide right in to have some fun! However, please bear in mind that, due to the size of this ship, you won’t be able to sail the iconic Amsterdam canals and do an iconic Amsterdam canal tour.

Small open boat cruise – 1 hour

Would you like to cruise in a comfortable open boat? This canal cruise is the right one for you! In these small electric vessels, you’ll be able to sit back, relax and enjoy some of the most amazing views of the historic city centre of Amsterdam. Thanks to the electric propulsion, there’s no noise and no pollution. During the cruise, you’ll pass some of the most iconic sights in Amsterdam, including the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) and the Amstel Hotel. The local captain is accompanied by a host who’ll make sure you won’t get thirsty during the cruise. A variety of drinks and snacks can be purchased during the cruise (not included in the price). These boat cruises can be booked from two departure points in the city centre; Amsterdam Central Station and the Anne Frank House.

• Book the small open boat cruise – with departure from Amsterdam Central Station – at Tiqets.com
• Book the small open boat cruise – with departure from the Anne Frank House – at Tiqets.com

New York Pizza canal cruise – 1.5 hour

If you would like to do a canal cruise in the evening, but the dinner cruise is a bit over your budget, the pizza cruise is a perfect alternative. During this 90 minute cruise, you’ll be covering both the historical and newer parts of the city whilst enjoying a pizza of choice with a beer or a soda. The beverages are included in the price, so you’ll save money that you don’t have to spend on dinner and you can tick off a must-do in Amsterdam! Enjoy a boat tour in Amsterdam while eating pizza. Do we need to say more?

Smoke & lounge boat tour – 1 hour

Amsterdam is widely known for the legalisation of marihuana, which you can buy at one of the many coffeeshops in Amsterdam . This boat trip is for those that want to enjoy the pleasure of smoking some on the water. During this 1-hour canal cruise, you’ll be able to watch Amsterdam drift by while enjoying your smoke. However, make sure to bring your own, as marijuana can only be sold at coffeeshops and not aboard the boat. Since smoking pot can make you thirsty, the cruise includes two drinks of choice. Expect a relaxed boat tour with some like-minded people and some relaxing music. Please note; this boat is not a party boat and doesn’t allow intoxicated people aboard.

Wine & Cheese canal cruise – 1 hour

This 60-minute cruise on a luxurious, modern ship departs regularly from the Anne Frank House . In 60 minutes’ time,  you’ll get to see some of the most iconic parts of Amsterdam, including the Skinny Bridge, the Red Light District and the Maritime Museum . This cruise can be booked either with or without bites and beverages. For a little extra, you can enjoy drinks of choice and some nice Dutch Cheese. The friendly hosts will welcome you aboard the boat and pour you a drink of choice once the boat sets sail. During the comfortable ride on the Amsterdam canals the hosts can tell you all about the sights and surroundings.

• Book the Wine & Cheese cruise – with departure from Amsterdam Central Station – at Tiqets.com
• Book the Wine & Cheese cruise – with departure from the Anne Frank House  – at Tiqets.com

Wine & Cheese evening boat cruise – 1.5 hour

During this 90-minute boat tour in Amsterdam, you’ll get to see the Dutch capital from the water after sunset. You’ll sail through Amsterdam’s romantic canal belt while enjoying a drink and a bite. Departing from a location near Amsterdam Central Station, the cruise will take you on some of Amsterdam’s finest UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterways with romantically illuminated bridges. Included in the cruise is the wine of choice: white, red, or rose, as well as mineral water. The wine will be accompanied by some tasty bites; a variety of local Dutch cheeses, grapes, bread and figs. A great way of exploring Amsterdam while enjoying quality time with your loved ones. Do you want to know if this cruise is the right fit for you? Read our full Lovers Cheese and Wine cruise review here !

Open booze canal cruise – 75 minutes including drinks

Are you looking for a cruise with a bit more excitement than the average, dull, canal cruise? Starboard Boats has got you covered. Their booze cruise in a small open boat is tailored for people looking for interaction with other travellers, who are looking to have a good time! During the 90-minute booze cruise, the cold beverages are waiting for you and are all included in the price.  The luxury boats are fitted with comfy cushions and a toilet. The open boats enable you to shoot some of the most magnificent pictures of Amsterdam, while a cover will protect you in case of rain.

• A 75-minute cruise in a comfortable, open boat
• Choose between two included drinks or an open-bar option
• Ship fitted with a toilet
• Two pick-up points available; Red Light District & Amstel

Click here to book the Booze Cruise with departure from Red Light District at Tiqets.com >>

Dinner cruise on a classic canal boat – 2 hours

If you’re looking to do an Amsterdam canal cruise in the evening, combined with a tasty three-course meal, check out this dinner cruise on a classical canal boat! Departing at 19:30 from Amsterdam Central Station, you’ll get to enjoy some amazing views of Amsterdam at sunset. Once you have boarded the boat, you’ll be served freshly baked bread and soup for a starter. The main dish can be chosen upon reservation and includes a vegetarian, fish and meat option. Drinks are already included in the price, you can choose between multiple wines, beers or sodas of choice as well as a bottle of sparkling or still water for each table.  To top it all off, a sweet dessert will be served to all. All in all a perfect cruise for anyone looking to combine an evening cruise on the romantic Amsterdam waterways with a decent meal!

Luxury Dinner Cruise with 3-course fine dining experience – 3 hours

If you’re looking to take your Amsterdam canal tour to the next level, we highly recommend checking out this luxury dinner cruise by Amsterdam Boats . Step aboard one of the high-end saloon boats and prepare for a 3-hour boat trip on the blissful Amsterdam canals, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage. This boat tour takes you along some of the finest historic Amsterdam canals, while you sit back and enjoy an à la carte 3-course dinner, with your loved ones. You’re desired courses will be freshly cooked in an acclaimed riverside restaurant and can be paired with some beautiful wines. The welcoming crew of Amsterdam Boats will do anything to ensure that you’ll have a wonderful fine dining experience on the Amsterdam canals. Any specific dietary wishes can be met, by indicating them on the reservation. The high-end ships can provide you with a comfortable experience with any type of weather; they are fitted with heating, but can also open the roof if the weather allows it. It is also possible to enjoy the views from the open deck in the back! This canal tour by Amsterdam Boats departs from a central location, near the Amsterdam City Hall.

Due to high demand, this cruise is now also available as a 3-hour luxury lunch cruise!

Private historical canal cruise on a 100-year-old boat – 1.5 hour

Do you want to relax, eat and drink on board a 100-year-old traditional Dutch boat while listening to all kinds of stories about Rembrandt? Do you want to discover the Amsterdam canals in privacy and learn something about her history?  Book this private tour from skipper Rock That Boat. This private boat tour includes drinks like wine, beer, tea or coffee and has room for ten passengers. So this tour is perfect for a small group of friends or a family. The duration of this private Amsterdam boat tour is 1,5 hours and reservations are a must, as availability is limited.

Discover a canal cruise near you, and picture locations

In the front seat of the Lovers canal cruise. Our captain loved to tell us some (fun) facts about Amsterdam.

Boat Tour Amsterdam FAQ

Should i do a canal cruise in amsterdam.

The answer is yes! Amsterdam is well known for its historical canals. Going on a boat trip allows you to explore and feel part of the city. As you cruise the canals, you will see many of Amsterdam’s highlights. We even dare to state that your trip isn’t complete if you haven’t been on a canal cruise. It is part of the Amsterdam journey.

How long is a canal cruise in Amsterdam?

The duration of a boat trip through Amsterdam depends on the one you choose. The duration of a boat trip differs from 60 minutes to 90 minutes or more. If you are happy to go on a classical cruise, you will cruise the water for one hour. Fancy a dinner and a drink and watch the sunset? The duration of the canal tour is 3 hours.

What’s the price for a canal cruise in Amsterdam?

There are many different canal cruises in Amsterdam, so it is hard to give you just one price. Prices of the canal cruises go from around €15,- up to €90,- or more, depending on the duration of the boat tour and beverages included in the boat tours.

Which canal cruise to take in Amsterdam?

We advise you to take a look at the many different canal cruises Amsterdam has to offer. Ask yourself the following questions, for example: would I like to have a good view in broad daylight, or would I prefer a more romantic cruise in the evening? How long do I want to be on the water? Would I just want to see the city or maybe also enjoy some bites or even dinner on the water? Do you want to share a canal boat and meet new people or just want to be with your loved ones? Look at your preferences and budget and choose the canal cruise that fits you most.

What is the best canal cruise in Amsterdam?

There is no such thing as the best canal cruise in Amsterdam. There are so many options, depending on your preference and budget. We advise you to go on a canal cruise if you have the chance. A canal cruise in Amsterdam is the perfect way to explore and feel part of the most beautiful part of the city!

Combitickets and discounted canal cruises

Obviously, the canal cruises are a big thing in Amsterdam. But as Amsterdam is expensive already, the price of canal tours in Amsterdam can be expensive for some. So for those who are looking for a cheap canal cruise check out the complete list of canal cruises and available discounts below. The best discounts and cheap canal cruises are often found in a combination ticket with a museum or excursion included. Choose wisely and have the best canal cruise Amsterdam price!

Tours & Tickets

Sail a small boat yourself

Do you want to be completely free and decide yourself which canals to cruise, have a picnic, drink or stay on the canals for hours? Then there’s the option to hire a small electric boat and sail it yourself. This might very well be the coolest way to explore the waterways of Amsterdam! Especially when you’re with a group of people renting a boat in Amsterdam is a fun and cheap alternative for canal cruises with a classical canal boat. There are multiple companies that rent out small electric boats that you can sail yourself. They are easy to sail and the electric propulsion provides a smooth, comfortable cruise over the Amsterdam canals. So put your captain hat on and start your own adventure. An electric rental boat will cost you somewhere around €30,- per hour. A boat carries up to 6 people so that’s only €5,- per person when fully loaded. Sounds like a heck of a deal as a cheap canal tour!

The 7 Best Amsterdam Canal Cruises [2024 Reviews]

Amsterdam is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world, and it’s no wonder why. The history alone is fascinating, but then incorporate its delicious food, endless nightlife activities, beautiful architecture, and stunning canals and it’s incredible.

We’re going to focus a bit on the latter today, as cruises along the canal are one of the most popular activities to do. However, there are also a lot of tours available, so which one is the best? No need to wonder, as we have all the top canal cruises in Amsterdam right here!

Don’t leave Amsterdam until you see all the things there are to do in this beautiful City!

Best amsterdam canal tours, quick answer: the 7 best amsterdam canal tours for 2024.

• Best Value Tour: Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks
• Best Tour w/ Drinks: Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise with Live Guide, Drinks and Cheese
• Best Budget Tour: Amsterdam Private Canal Booze Cruise
• Best Evening Tour: Amsterdam Private Romantic Canal Cruise at Night
• Best Private Tour: Private Boat Tour: Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
• Best Family Tour: Amsterdam 90-Minute Private Family Canal Cruise
• Best Small Group Tour: Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks

Be sure to see our reviews of Red Light District Tours, Van Gogh Museum Tours and Windmill Tours .

Amsterdam Canal Tour Reviews

1. best value tour: amsterdam small-group canal cruise plus snacks and drinks.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure: Keizersgracht 106, 1015 CV Amsterdam
• Departure Time:  1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:30 PM
• Includes:  Snack platter, unlimited drinks (open bar), professional guide, all taxes & fees, snacks, bottled water

The next one up is a bit longer than the other two we’ve covered so far. Clocking in at 2 hours, you’ll get to learn all about the local history, lifestyle, landmarks, and the canals, specifically.

Do it all while enjoying some delicious snacks and drinks on Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks . If you’ve just arrived in Amsterdam, it’s one of the best ways to get an introduction to the city.

The ride is relaxing and beautiful, and ideal for a small group (maximum of 9 people) for a customized experience and the ability to ask any questions you may have to the skipper.

Start out in Jordaan, which is a great place to explore if you want to escape the crowds and general hustle-and-bustle of the city.

It’s a lovely area to sit back, relax, and take the views in. They’ll offer you all kinds of local eats like a snack platter with fruit, cheese, cookies, and sausages.

Wash it all down with some craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Pass by the city’s oldest hat factory, called the Rode Hoed (Red Hat), which now serves as an event center. Your guide will tell you all about its interesting (and lengthy!) history.

They’ll continue offering an educational commentary on the canals’ history and heritage, and how important they are.

Not only that, but you’ll get to see the gorgeous side houses that line the canals, along with the enormous mansions that sit on the bigger main canals.

The route does vary a bit, depending on the weather and time of day you book for. However, each trip is a very enjoyable experience!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. best tour w/ drinks: amsterdam classic boat cruise with live guide, drinks and cheese.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Departure:  Prinsengracht 263
• Departure Time: Between 10:30 AM & 10:00 PM
• Includes: Expert tour guide and skipper , two different types of Dutch Cheese, Unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks and water

One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is from a canal cruise. There’s just something magical about floating down the calm waters as you pass by centuries-old buildings and under beautiful bridges.

The Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise with Live Guide, Drinks and Cheese is one of the best if you’re looking for a great way to spend time seeing the city while enjoying some food and drinks.

Being on the short site at an hour, it’s super easy to fit into even the busiest schedules. Whether you go day or night, it’s simply a magical experience you have to try at least once.

Meet up with your guide, and hop on board, where you’ll be acquainted with your local, certified skipper who is an expert in all things “Amsterdam”.

They’ll tell you all about the city’s history and specifically that of the canals. The district is UNESCO-listed, and it’s unique to just this area.

Not only that, but they provide insight into the locals’ way of life and how the canals are used present-day. There are many people who actually live in house boats docked at the sides of the canals, which is pretty cool!

As you’ll get to see so much of the city, once you’re on land you’ll find that navigating around is much easier.

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best budget tour: amsterdam private canal booze cruise.

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Departure:  Jungle Dock
• Departure Time:  12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Includes:   Live tour guide, t ransport for activity duration: sightseeing cruise, b eer, w ine,  s oft drinks

Amsterdam is a city that’s known for having a good time, and if you’re looking for one, you’re in the right place. The Amsterdam: Private Canal Booze Cruise lasts 1.5 hours and is a great way to start off the evening or day of sightseeing.

Take a break to relax, but cruising through the gorgeous canals with a refreshing beverage in hand! Sure, there are tons of bars in the city, but trust us when we say this way is much more fun! If it’s your first time in the city, it’s a must-do!

If you’re traveling in groups, this is a nice way to get everyone together from some simultaneous excitement and sightseeing. It’s available for groups of 10 people and under. Meet up with your guide near Central Station, which is easy to get to from just about any part of the city.

Board your boat, where you’ll be able to relax on the padded seats with plenty of leg room.  There’s also a restroom on board, which is ideal if you’re going to be drinking!

Crack open a cold beer, pop open a bottle of champagne, or some simple mixed drinks while you cruise around the canals. Think of it as like an open bar because you don’t have a limit on how many drinks you can have.

You’ll pass through the Amstel River, under 7 stunning bridges and some hidden gems your skipper will point out to you. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the city, where famous landmarks are, and will make it easier to plan excursions on land based on this.

Other Amsterdam Experiences To Try:

4. best evening tour: amsterdam private romantic canal cruise at night.

• Duration: 50 minutes to 90 minutes
• Departure: At the canals (white boat with blue tops)
• Departure Time:  Variety Available
• Includes:   Private boat cruise at night, c aptain/storyteller, g lass of mulled wine (winter), s mall bottle of Prosecco (summer), l ocal cheese, grapes, crackers, and waffles, b lankets

On the hunt for the perfect date night adventure? If so, there are a lot of choices to select from, but this next tour always seems to rank quite high.

The Amsterdam: Private Romantic Canal Cruise at Night tour is a great alternative to heading to a fancy restaurant, because you have it all right here on board! While the city is beautiful just about any time of day or with any weather, it’s really something different at night.

The city is all lit up, with the warm lights reflecting off of the rippling waters. It’s also a great way to preface dinner, as it won’t spoil your meal but will definitely satisfy any hunger pangs and quench your thirst.

Board your comfortable, private vessel for the next 50 to 90 minutes while you get settled and cruise down the canals. The glistening lights light the way, as your skipper tells you all kinds of fascinating stories about the city’s history, culture, and notable landmarks.

They’ll share facts about important people from here, as well as local legends that always are fun to learn about.

With cozy blankets provided, along with some sparkling champagne, wine, cheese, and waffles, we can’t recommend this tour enough if you really want to get in some quality time with that special someone.

It’s also perfect if you want to learn more about navigating the city and how to access certain tourist hot spots.

While it’s not required, you do have the option of having the guide play some romantic music as well. It’s all up to what you and your partner would like to do – they’re all very accommodating and there to ensure you have a wonderful romantic evening.

5. Best Private Tour: Private Boat Tour: Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

• Departure: Oosterdokskade 8, Oosterdokskade 8, 1011 AE Amsterdam
• Includes:  Alcoholic beverages, soda

This next tour is perfect for couples or groups of friends and family, alike. You can reserve the boat for up to 12 people, making it a great way to spend some quality time and have a blast while doing it!

The Private Boat Tour: Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam lasts 1.5 hours full of laughs, adventuring, and learning about this unique city!

Start out by meeting down at the wooden dock next to the “Sea Palace” restaurant. We found the boats to look brand-new, and are in excellent condition. It actually is one of the more luxurious boats we’ve seen, with the wooden sitting area sporting traditional windows and padded seats.

Actually, this traditional vessel is one of just a few in all of Amsterdam that holds the title of “floating monument status” due to its historic traits! If you’re curious, your guide will tell you all about this beauty.

Enjoy unlimited champagne and sip the bubbly while you watch out over the gorgeous canals, as you cruise under bridges and past elaborately-designed homes that line each side.

The boat’s owner will tell you all about the history of the city and offer interesting anecdotes and personal stories, as well.

Enjoy attentive service as you cruise by important landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, Magere Brug, the Red Light District, National Maritime Museum, Heineken Experience, Café de Sluyswacht, Bridge of 15 Bridges, and much more.

We highly recommend checking at least some of those out once you’re on land, and now that you know how to get to them!

6. Best Family Tour: Amsterdam 90-Minute Private Family Canal Cruise

• Departure:  Keizersgracht 198, Keizersgracht 198, 1015 CZ Amsterdam
• Includes: Variety Available

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable excursion to take the entire family on, you’ve found it! The Amsterdam 90-Minute Private Family Canal Cruise tour is a fantastic way to explore the legendary Dutch canals, and see some of the most popular landmarks from a different perspective.

This is a must-do if you’re bringing the entire family along, and is great for all ages! With a max passenger limit of 10 people per boat, you can feel confident you’re going to receive personalized attention and be able to have any of your questions answered by a professional.

They captain will ask you if you have any specific interests, so they can tailor your cruise to them, too. While food and drinks aren’t served on the boat, you’re more than welcome to bring your own. After exploring, you may want to go grab some food, anyway.

This 1.5-hour tour offers quite a bit of flexibility with start times, making it easy to fit into busy schedules.

As you cruise down the charming canals, they’ll teach you all about the city’s history, modern-day attractions, and many stories with cultural relevance. They’ll show you some hidden gems that not many tourists get to see or even know about, too!

If you’re new to the city, they’ll offer some tips on places to visit later, including any restaurant recommendations! This is a fantastic way to learn about local lifestyles here, and how the canals impact them.

They’re an excellent mode of transportation and offer a bit of relaxation away from the crowds.

7. Best Small Group Tour: Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks

• Departure: Keizersgracht 401, Keizersgracht 401, 1016 EK Amsterdam
• Includes:  Snacks, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, fees and taxes

This next tour is always a blast, super affordable, and one of the most highly-rated canal cruises out there! The Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise plus Snacks and Drinks tour is one everyone should try, even if you’ve already done a canal cruise before!

Lasting 2 hours long, it’s a fantastic way to have fun, eat some delicious traditional snacks, and enjoy the views without the crowds. Located right in front of the Museum for Photography, you’ll meet up with your guide where you and the rest of your group will be escorted to the boat.

Due to the space, you will be limited to groups of 12 people. We really enjoyed the configuration of this boat, which is open on the ends but has a glass covering to keep you protected just in case of rain (which can happen even in the summertime!).

It also offers unobstructed views of this gorgeous city, where you’ll be able to fully enjoy the incredible architecture and canal views.

To keep your thirst and hunger at bay, they provide mulled wine and authentic Dutch snacks like the “bitterballen” and “stroopwafel” which are delicious and perfect if you like sweets! Start out in the old quarter of the Jordaan, which is arguably one of the prettiest areas.

Cruise along and spot landmarks such as the Anne Frank house,  Red Light District, National maritime Museum, Hortus Botanicus, and even the East Indiaman ship dating from back to the Golden Age!

You’ll even get to see various “hidden gems” that not too many tourists know about, and can go back to visit them once you’re on land.

Why You Should Take an Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tour

Taking an Amsterdam canal cruise is a great way to experience the city from a unique perspective.

• See the city from a different angle : Amsterdam is of course famous for its canals but taking a canal cruise/tour allows you can see can see sights that visitors walking around don’t get to see. You will get to see the city’s narrow streets, historic buildings and picturesque bridges from the water.
• Learn about Amsterdam’s history and culture : Most canal cruise tours have audio guides or live commentary which can provide interesting information about Amsterdam’s history, architecture and culture. You’ll learn all about the city’s most famous residents, its trading history and its most famous landmarks.
• Relax and unwind: A canal cruise is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. have a glass of wine while you enjoy the sights. Most canal cruises have food and drink options so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views.
• Ideal for all ages : A canal cruise is a great activity for families, couples or groups of friends. It’s a good option for families and is an enjoyable experience for everyone.

What Will You See on Canal Tour/Cruise?

• Architecture : Amsterdam’s canal ring is home to many stunning buildings, including 17th-century merchant houses, grand public buildings and its modern architecture.
• Bridges : Amsterdam has over 1,200 bridges many of which are historic and offer unique views of the city.
• Houseboats : Amsterdam is famous for its houseboats which line the canals and give you a glimpse into the city’s unique culture.
• Landmarks : A canal cruise will take you past many of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks, including the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and of course the Van Gogh Museum .
• Bustling streets : As you cruise through Amsterdam’s canals, you’ll also see bustling streets and neighborhoods, giving you a feel for the city’s vibrant energy and lively atmosphere.
• Red Light District – This area is probably one of the more obvious neighborhoods to go adventuring around at night. The iconic red windows and notorious coffee shops are everywhere and while this area is full of tourist traps. You should take a Red Light District tour so you can see all the cool spots like Belushi’s, Hill Street Blues, and Aepjen.

Tour Guides

The Private 1.5 hour Canal Tour in Amsterdam with your Loved One is our Editors Choice for the best canal tour in Amsterdam

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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7 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam To Experience In 2024

Amsterdam is one of the places I am constantly visiting; it’s my favorite. And since I’ve visited so many times, I’ve had the opportunity to take many of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam over the past few years! In this post, I’ve rounded up the top canal boat tours that are worth your time! I hope they will help you fall in love with Amsterdam as much as I have

Taking a canal tour is the #1 thing that visitors to the Netherlands must have on their Amsterdam itinerary whether it’s your first time abroad in Amsterdam or your 30th. No matter how many times I travel to Amsterdam (and I’m low-key obsessed with it, so….a lot!), I always take a canal tour. It’s the perfect way to see the beautiful waterways and immerse yourself in the city quickly. But, I’ve taken some awful canal tours over the years (those ones RIGHT outside Central Station ) , and it is so easy to get caught up on a tour that caters only to tourists and isn’t worth your time. That’s where I come in! I’ve rounded up some of my favorite Amsterdam canal tours- from the most popular tour to the best small group tours, and even the most unique canal experiences- all with 5 stars and amazing ratings. Read on and take your pick of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam!

🏆 BEST AMSTERDAM CANAL CRUISE

Short on time? No problem! Captain Jack’s All-Inclusive Canal Cruise is the best canal tour in Amsterdam!

7 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

Here are some of the top boat tours in Amsterdam:

1. Best Overall and Family-Friendly: Captain Jacks (My Favorite!)

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 1 Hour 30 Minutes | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

I just took this boat tour in Amsterdam about a month ago, and let me tell you, it was incredible! Captain Jack has a way of making Amsterdam feel like home, all the while providing interesting information about the city! If you’ve asked around about the best canal cruises in Amsterdam, chances are you’ve heard of Captain Jack. His name is a revered one among visitors looking for the best experience in the city, and let me tell you, he lives up to the name! As soon as we saw him, he greeted us with open arms and a massive smile! It’s no surprise that his tours have been awarded the Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award more than once. And most recently in 2022! Choose from multiple departure times and places throughout the day and prepare to be regaled by the entertaining tales and commentary from Captain Jack himself or one of his teammates. Our guide was born and raised in Amsterdam, so he had tons of unique tidbits to share with us!

As with most of the boat cruises in the Canal Ring, Captain Jack’s takes in the main sights. He sails visitors past famous landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House. This tour includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks in a small group environment, where you’ll set sail with a maximum of 20 total visitors. Overall, I’d highly recommend an Amsterdam river cruise with Captain Jack. It was such a welcoming experience- and we felt like royalty with all of the free snacks, beers, and stories!

2. Most Popular Canal Cruise in Amsterdam: Flagship Amsterdam

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars (more than 30,000 reviews) | ⏳ Duration: 1 Hour | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

Looking for the #1 top-rated boat tour in the world? Flagship’s luxury open-boat tour is the one you want. With more than 30,000 five-star reviews, this is easily the most popular tour in Amsterdam , and it’s one of the most well-priced, too. I enjoyed this boat tour when I took it myself, and it’s absolutely my top recommendation for those who are looking for a good cruise at an affordable pricepoint! Board a chic, comfortable boat and sail through the canal ring of the Netherlands like you belong there. See more than 40 landmarks and areas of Amsterdam such as the Anne Frank House , the Houseboat Museum, and the Dutch National Opera and Ballet as you cruise along canals such as the Herengracht, Singel, and Prinsengracht. Flagship is known for its witty tour guides who regale travelers with their unique tales of Amsterdam and their cozy, family-like atmosphere. This tour is a must-do for a first-timers trip to the city, even if you are only there for one day !

Our guides were amazing! They had so many interesting facts and kept the whole group engaged throughout. They were really friendly and we throughly enjoyed our cruise. I would absolutely recommend this company over other boats! -ERIN (READ MORE REVIEWS )

This cruise runs year-round and offers blankets to keep warm in chillier weather so that you can still see the beauty of Amsterdam from the water. Plus… a cash bar on board makes this the perfect tour to book for a relaxing afternoon seeing the city.

3. Amazing Small-Group Evening Canal Tour: Pure Boats

One of my favorite canal boat tours ever was an evening one! There’s something about seeing the city all lit up at night that almost feels unreal. So, if you want a unique evening experience , look no further than the Pure Boats small-group nighttime canal cruise. It goes without saying that the 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage Canal Ring is a stunning sight to see under the stars. Glide through the waterways of Amsterdam as you enjoy an open-bar cruise complete with wine, craft beer, and delicious Dutch cheese. This river tour experience will blow you away as you take in the scenery of the city all lit up and watch Amsterdam descend into a night of excitement. When you’re finished, you’re all set to continue enjoying the fabulous European nightlife Amsterdam is famous for. With a maximum of 16 travelers, this small group tour creates an intimate environment with a personal touch.

Really intimate and beautiful. We did a canal boat ride during the day and the this one at night highlighted very different things. Claas was a great host. The cheese was freaking amazing. – HAFEESA (SEE more reviews )

Amsterdam basically never sleeps, so this is a unique opportunity to admire the beauty of popular must-see places like the Skinny Bridge, the Amstel, and the 7 Bridges. During your journey, learn historical facts and interesting stories from a local, trained guide.

4. Top Amsterdam Canal Cruise Experience: Amsterdam Food & Canal Tour

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 4 Hours | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

Local guides provide a unique canal cruise and tour experience all in one with one of the top Amsterdam river cruises- the Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour. Spend four entire hours with your guide uncovering hidden gems and local favorites in the city. You cannot find this experience anywhere else! Meet a Dutch family, see historical sites, and explore Amsterdam both on foot and via waterway during your adventure.

Hanging with Gerard felt like an old friend. He shared old history stories throughout Jordaan and the city center as we stumbled into hidden gems. With a total of 6 food stops with herring fish and aged boeren overjarig cheese being my favorite! Our time ended with a private luxury salon boat cruise through the canals and even into the Amstel River. Book now before it’s sold out! – Dan (read more reviews )

First, your tour begins with a private boat ride that takes you around the UNESCO World Heritage canals such as the Prinsengracht, Herengracht, and Keizersgracht (Emperor’s Canal) to see both traditional and unique buildings in Amsterdam. Then, take a walking tour and taste multiple Dutch foods while you engage with locals. This tour is a great way to meet some new friends in Amsterdam and see lesser-known parts of the city.

5. Top Private Luxury Canal Cruise Tour in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy romantic evening in the city for couples or an intimate tour for your small group, a private canal tour is the way to go! This entirely customizable boat tour in Amsterdam means you can have everything that you want for a personalized, unique night out with up to 10 of your closest friends. Decide on your cruise itinerary with the skipper from Rederij Paping. Have you been wanting to see a specific part of Amsterdam? Put it on the list, and your captain will take you there!

My fiancee and I had a fantastic time with Skipper Paap. He is extremely knowledgeable about Amsterdam and had a ton of offbeat insights to share, which made the tour more memorable. He was very hospitable and generous as well, sharing local cheese and beer along with his stories. I highly recommend this tour. -Russell (Read more reviews )

Depending on the season, choose the time of day that you’d prefer. Perhaps you want a sunrise viewing, lunchtime extravaganza, or a starlit evening cruise during Christmastime. This eco-friendly tour has won the Viator Badge of Excellence in 2022 , and previous adventurers rave about the insightful live commentary.

Tip: You can find my reviews on all of the BEST PRIVATE BOAT TOURS in Amsterdam here!

6. Best Combination Ticket + Canal Tour

⭐ RATING 4.5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 75 Minutes (Plus Museum) | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

One of the best ways to maximize your time in Amsterdam is to combine attractions whenever possible. If you’re planning to check a few things off of your Amsterdam list , definitely consider combining them with your canal tour! This tour offers audio commentary on your trip through the Amsterdam Canal Ring . You’ll see all of the typical sights on your 75-minute tour, like the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), Westerkerk, the Hermitage Amsterdam, and the NEMO Science Museum. But, in addition, you’ll also grab yourself skip-the-line entry to the Rijksmuseum.

The package is a must do for those visiting Amsterdam for the first time! The RIJKSMUSEUM is an enriching experience. The boat tour is another unmissable treat! You can enjoy the well chosen music while listening the excellent guide or go out to take those magical shots of the romantic canals and bridges at night! The package is definitely value for money! (sEE mORE rEVIEWS )

The Rijksmuseum entries can sell out quickly, so buying your ticket ahead of time with your canal cruise not only saves you money, but it also saves you time and prevents you from being disappointed should museum tickets become unavailable.

Tip: Looking to combine tours, but not interested in the Rijksmuseum? Try these popular combinations below: ✔️ Canal Cruise + Heineken Experience Tickets (Book Here!) ✔️ Canal Cruise + Van Gogh Museum (Book Here!) ✔️ Canal Cruise + Xtracold Icebar Admission (Book Here!)

7. Unforgettable Amsterdam Light Festival Holiday Boat Tour

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 2 Hours | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

After being in Amsterdam for Christmas a few years ago, I can 10/10 recommend doing a nighttime canal cruise to see the Amsterdam Light Festival ! While you can certainly walk or bike around the city and view them, there’s something special about seeing them from the water. Look no further than hopping aboard a small-group canal cruise with Rederij De Wester. Each year, the Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city center into a magical winter wonderland. Artists from all over the world create unique works of art out of lights, decorating streets and canals alike. Hop into a luxurious sloop (one-mast sailboat) complete with heated seats and blankets and marvel at the stunning light displays around the city.

The captain was so knowledgeable and informative and humorous that he made the trip one of the best experiences we have ever had in our few trips to Amsterdam. -GP (SEE more reviews )

With 12 others, enjoy a more comfortable and personalized excursion where you can enjoy unlimited drinks from the open bar and authentic snacks such as the Dutch stroopwafel and bitterballen. What could be more heartwarming than sipping on mulled wine as you cruise around the twinkling canals with a loved one?

FAQ: Amsterdam Canal Cruises

With so many different Amsterdam boat tours available, it’s no wonder that people have questions. Here are some answers to the questions I get most often:

What is the best canal cruise to take in Amsterdam?

The best canal cruise to take in Amsterdam is Captain Jack’s All Inclusive canal cruise . It is an hour and a half filled with stories from locals, great sightseeing, and delicious Dutch treats. And who doesn’t love bottomless beer, wine, and soda? We felt like royalty on Captain Jack’s cruise- he has a way of making everyone feel welcome and included. Plus, we love supporting a fantastic small business.

Is the Amsterdam Canal cruise worth it?

110% an Amsterdam canal cruise is worth it. Do not let anyone talk you out of taking one. Some locals will say they’re touristy. But a boat tour is a beautiful way to see more of Amsterdam, and it is such a unique experience that is quintessentially Amsterdam. I’ve been to Amsterdam many times now, and I still take at least one canal cruise every time I visit!

Which canal is the most beautiful in Amsterdam?

The Brouwersgracht is widely considered to be the most stunning canal in Amsterdam. It has a mixture of magnificent architectural homes built during the Golden Age, unique bridges, and Amsterdam landmarks.

What is the best time for a canal cruise in Amsterdam?

The best time for a canal cruise in Amsterdam is during the day. That way, you can see all of the sights and get some fantastic pictures. Luckily, you can take a boat tour during any season- even winter! Many canal boats are equipped with blankets and covers for inclement weather.

Final Thoughts: Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

There you have it! The 6 most fantastic canal cruise tours for Amsterdam. I hope it was helpful! Regardless of which Amsterdam canal cruise you choose to take, you’re going to have an amazing time in this must-visit city ! In case you skimmed through to the end ( we are all busy!), here is the roundup of the top canal tours for each type of traveler:

✔️ Best Overall + My Personal Favorite Tour: Captain Jack’s ✔️Top Rated + Most Popular: Flagship Amsterdam Open-Boat Canal Cruise ✔️Best Private Canal Cruise: Rederij Paping 1.5 Hour Private Canal Cruise ✔️Best Canal Tour Experience: Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour

Planning a trip to Amsterdam soon? Check out my top Amsterdam posts below!

✅ My favorite Amsterdam itineraries for 4 days or one day in Amsterdam ! ✅ All the canal cruise private tours I recommend! ✅ An Amsterdam Bucket List to complete! ✅ Everything you need to know for visiting the Anne Frank House ✅ Top Weekend Trips from Amsterdam ✅ Review on my #1 Place to stay in Amsterdam ✅ If you’re biking around the city, here’s what you need to know ! ✅ Wondering if you can speak English in Amsterdam ? Or do you need to greet in Dutch ?

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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Amsterdam Canal Cruise (2024): 10 Tips for a Better Experience

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 6, 2024

Are you thinking of taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam in the Netherlands and wondering if it’s worth it and what to expect?

In this guide, we share our experience-based tips for Amsterdam canal cruises to help you plan a truly unforgettable experience. In addition, you’ll also find our hand-picked recommendations for the best canal cruises in Amsterdam in 2024.

Amsterdam’s canal system dates back to the 17th century, the prosperous time of the Golden Age. They are now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Many of the oldest neighborhoods and historic buildings can be found along Amsterdam’s canals (‘grachten’). There is really no better way to get a first introduction to the city than by taking a sightseeing boat trip along the main canals of Amsterdam.

So if you are wondering if the Amsterdam canals cruise is worth it, yes, it absolutely is. More than that – it’s one of the best things to do in Amsterdam that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

If you visit the city on a sunny weekend, you will be amazed at the sheer number of boats on the canals all over Amsterdam. It sometimes looks as if everyone here owns a boat and they use every opportunity to get on the water… So do as the locals and don’t miss a chance to discover this beautiful city from the water.

Good to know: Since most canal cruises in Amsterdam only take 60-75 minutes and there are multiple starting locations , it’s really easy to fit it into any itinerary.

Now that we established that taking a canal cruise is really a must-do in Amsterdam, there are quite a few things that you may want to know before you go. Which boat to choose, where to start, what to wear, or how to make the most of your visit…

In this article, we share Amsterdam canal cruise tips and useful info that should help you avoid disappointment and have a truly unforgettable experience. At the end of this guide, you will also find some of the frequently asked questions about Amsterdam canal cruises.

TIP: If you have no time to read the entire article, here are the best options for Amsterdam canal cruise:

• Open-boat canal cruise . This is our personal recommendation, based on our various experiences with canal cruises in Amsterdam.
• Semi-open boat cruise . This is a very popular canal cruise, great in any weather. If you like the idea of enjoying an unlimited supply of Dutch cheese & wine (or other drinks if you prefer) during your cruise, then opt for this tour.
• Classic LOVERS canal cruise . This is the most popular, budget-friendly canal cruise on a covered boat with a glass roof. Please note that the name of this cruise company has nothing to do with the English meaning of this word ;).
• Evening canal cruise . This is a great option if you want to experience Amsterdam canals in the dark.
• Private canal cruise . The best option if you are looking for a more authentic experience and want the whole boat just for your own group/family.

Just in case you wonder, this article is not sponsored and all opinions are our own. We visit Amsterdam quite often and have done multiple canal tours. So all these tips are based on our first-hand experiences.

Here are our top tips for Amsterdam canal cruises:

1. Book in advance

First things first – if you are planning your itinerary and want to take a canal cruise in Amsterdam, we strongly recommend booking in advance . There are a few reasons for this.

First, by booking in advance, you can make sure that the location of the boat tour fits your overall itinerary. Furthermore, you can choose the boat type that you like, read customer reviews, compare prices, and know exactly what you get.

There are so many options for Amsterdam canal cruises that the choice is tough even online. Once you get to the city, it’s absolutely overwhelming. With dozens of companies running tours from numerous locations and various boat types and other options available, you never know exactly what you’ll get.

On a recent visit, we also noticed that most canal cruises in Amsterdam were slightly more expensive than online. Some companies also adjust their prices depending on demand. We saw multiple companies increase their price by a euro or two on the weekend or when it got busier. Luckily, most canal cruises aren’t expensive to start with, but a few euros extra for a big family can quickly add up.

Last but not least, booking in advance will save you time. While it is usually possible to book a canal cruise on the day itself as well, often that means that you’ll need to wait for the next available boat. On busy days at the most popular locations, you can waste a couple of hours or may not even be able to find a suitable option at all.

Further below, you can find more information on the best canal cruises.

2. Opt for an open-boat tour

Unless you are visiting Amsterdam in the coldest months, I highly recommend considering an open-boat canal cruise. The experience on these boats is incomparable to the (semi-)covered ones and the price difference is normally just 3-5 euros.

I still remember the first time we visited Amsterdam and took a ‘regular’ tour on a covered boat. It was so busy that everyone was packed inside. If you got on the boat a bit later than others, you had no window seat. Despite the beautiful sunny weather, the glass roof and windows were only partially open and we had obstructed views. To make things worse, we could hardly hear the commentary from the guide…

A lot has changed since then and most companies running canal cruises in Amsterdam try not to overload their boats too much, the sound quality is better, etc. Since a few years, there are also several companies offering open boat cruises in Amsterdam. So nowadays, we always try to opt for an open boat, even though it’s a bit more expensive and a bit more uncertain weather-wise.

The main advantage of an open boat is that you have unobstructed views (and can take better pictures). Plus, everyone gets the best seat since all the chairs are along the side. These boats are also much smaller than the traditional canal cruises in Amsterdam, so it feels like a much more local experience, and you can interact with the captain and the guide in person.

Open boats usually have an onboard bar, so you can order a drink and enjoy it while sailing on the canals. You’ll meet many locals doing exactly the same thing on their own little boats. So it feels like a much more relaxed local experience.

Good to know: One of the best companies for open boat cruises is Flagship Amsterdam. They have various options for canal cruises in Amsterdam. Their standard cruise with an onboard bar is the most popular choice (we took it recently and really enjoyed it). In addition, they have private cruises, cruises that include drinks and snacks, etc.

However, an open boat may not be suitable for everyone (e.g. people with mobility issues) – more info about it below.

3. Consider your mobility & season when choosing the boat

As already mentioned, our personal preference goes for open-boat tours on Amsterdam canals. However, they may not always be the best idea for everyone. So consider your personal situation and the season when you are visiting when deciding on the boat type.

For example, open boat cruises are definitely not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Classic boats like the LOVERS cruises are a bit more suitable if you have mobility restrictions. However, also there, you have to be able to walk 1-3 steps when getting in and out of the boat. Please also note that you cannot take a wheelchair (or a stroller) on board. You can leave them on the quayside; in that case, I strongly recommend packing a bicycle lock – it will give you peace of mind.

Blue Boat cruises have just one wheelchair-accessible location and that is if you start at Hard Rock Café Pier (close to Rijksmuseum). However, you have to book one of the following time slots (11 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, or 4 PM) and let them know in advance that you’ll be in a wheelchair. They allow just 3 wheelchairs onboard at the same time.

As for the weather, you can’t predict that in advance, often, not even a few days upfront. So decide based on the season, keeping in mind that there is always a chance of rain and wind in Amsterdam.

While open boat cruises typically have a few blankets and umbrellas available, it may not be your idea of a fun excursion. So if you are visiting in a shoulder season or are worried that you’ll quickly get cold, opt for a traditional boat or a semi-open boat instead.

Good to know: Traditional covered boats typically have heating in the winter, but it can still be chilly on the coldest days.

4. Pick a cruise location wisely

As already mentioned, there are multiple locations where you can take a canal cruise in Amsterdam. The most popular starting points are Amsterdam Central Railway Station, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum.

Good to know: There is not one ‘best’ place to start your canal tour in Amsterdam. No matter where you start and which boat you take, most sightseeing cruises visit the same places and main highlights along Amsterdam’s Canal Belt ( Grachtengordel ) .

Depending on where you start, you will see somewhat different parts of the city, but typically, all cruises go on at least one or two main canals.

Every cruise we’ve been to passed the most prestigious Herengracht which was traditionally inhabited by the richest and most prominent citizens of the city. Nowadays, you will find some of the most expensive hotels in the city here, such as Waldorf Astoria , and offices of companies like Booking.com .

They all take you to the famous Seven Bridges (and you have to be really quick to see them). All cruises go to the Amstel River as well, where you can see some of the most impressive bridges in Amsterdam and the famous ‘dancing houses’. (You will soon realize that pretty much all houses in Amsterdam’s city center are leaning one way or the other, but these cruises will always point out the same ones ;)).

There are also canal cruises visiting ‘off-the-beaten path’ canals in Amsterdam (e.g. this cruise that focuses on the Jordaan neighborhood), but those are less common. If it’s your first time in the city, you will want to see the top places, and for that, it doesn’t matter that much where you start or which tour you choose.

However, the location matters a lot for your overall itinerary . Choosing it wisely can save you a lot of time. In case you wonder, the cruises will always drop you off at the place where you started.

For example, if you are arriving by train and plan to spend just a day in Amsterdam , you may want to start your visit with a canal cruise right away. In that case, choose a cruise departing near the Central Station. Whereas if you are visiting the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum first thing in the morning, you may want to do a cruise right after that. In this case, choose the starting location at the Rijksmuseum.

On our recent trip to Amsterdam, we had tickets for Anne Frank House at 5 PM. Knowing that a typical visit takes about 1 hour, we booked a canal cruise starting at Anne Frank House at 6.30 PM. Planning in advance makes it so much more relaxing too!

TIP: This open boat cruise is possible from all three most popular locations; you choose them during booking.

5. Save money with combination tickets

Depending on the landmarks that you are planning to visit and the boat type, you can save some money on Amsterdam canal cruises by booking combination tickets.

Here are some of the best options :

• Amsterdam Pass . This digital pass lets you choose a few of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam including a canal cruise. The main advantage of this pass is that you can immediately book your timed slots for all the sites (and see if they are available at the date/time you want to visit). Most other combination tickets don’t allow you to prebook a time slot for the boat in advance.
• Van Gogh Museum + Canal Cruise or Rijksmuseum + Canal Cruise . These combination tickets let you choose a timed entry for the museum of your choice, but the canal cruise is an open ticket. You can board the next available boat from one of the two docks at either Hard Rock Cafe or Heineken Experience (both docks are not too far from these museums).
• Van Gogh Museum + Canal Cruise or Rijksmuseum + Canal Cruise or Heineken Experience + Canal Cruise . Same as above – you can choose a timed slot for the museum visit. However, the canal cruise departs from the Central Station (which is on the other side of town from the museums), and the time slot has to be pre-booked at their office.
• i amsterdam City Card . This card offers great value if you are staying in Amsterdam for at least a few days. However, you will have to pre-book time slots for some museums and also canal cruises separately. It can be an amazing deal if you are here for 3-5 days and plan to visit many of the included attractions, but it’s a bit more hassle to arrange things where advance booking is essential.

Good to know: These combination tickets are actually quite popular, but be sure to consider all the practicalities such as the cruise departure location and ability/need to reserve the boat. Also, keep in mind that all these boats are traditional ones. So if you would like to take an open-boat cruise, simply book all your tickets separately.

READ ALSO: Tips for Visiting Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam

6. Avoid weekends and peak times

Taking a boat trip on Amsterdam canals is the most popular thing to do in the city. So the canal cruises are at their busiest during weekends, school holidays, and also during the peak times in the middle of the day.

Plus, lots of locals take out their own boats for a ride on the canals when the weather is nice and they have more time. So on a sunny summer weekend, Amsterdam canals might look like a beehive. While it is always fun to watch from the side, it’s less fun to be stuck in a ‘traffic jam’ on the canals.

TIP: For a more relaxed experience, we recommend taking a canal cruise on a weekday, early in the morning (9-10.30 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 4-5 PM). Evening cruises (with or without dinner options) are also very popular and can be especially nice in the winter season when it gets dark early.

Not only is it much quieter on the canals in the morning on a weekday, but it’s usually also not as busy on the boat itself.

Good to know: Most canal cruises in Amsterdam start at 9 AM (bigger boats) or 10 AM (open boats) with frequent departure times throughout the entire day and until late in the evening.

7. Do a canal cruise at the beginning of your trip

If you are visiting Amsterdam for the first time, I highly recommend doing a canal cruise at the start of your trip. In fact, I would do it on the very first day.

It’s such a good way to get a first introduction to the city, get your bearings, and also decide which places you potentially want to visit on foot later during your stay.

Depending on how much time you have in Amsterdam, you can always do an additional cruise (for example, in the dark or with dinner) later for yet a different experience. You can find more information about evening boat cruises in Amsterdam further below.

8. Use a bathroom before going on a boat

Boat trips on Amsterdam canals typically take 60-75 minutes. Plus, you will also need to arrive at least 10-15 minutes in advance. So you will not be able to use a bathroom for at least 1.5-2 hours.

So consider this and be sure to use a bathroom before you go on a boat!

Good to know: Most covered traditional boats have bathrooms on board, but you never know in advance if your boat will have a bathroom. Open boats have no bathrooms.

Recently, when we were on an open-boat canal cruise in Amsterdam, the guides asked everyone if they needed to use a bathroom before we left. Apparently, the previous boat had to stop and leave some people halfway through the tour because they needed to use a bathroom urgently.

Normally, bigger boats won’t even be able to stop at all (nor will you easily find a toilet readily available just anywhere).

9. Dress warmly

If you wonder what to wear for a canal cruise in Amsterdam, there is really no dress code, so dress comfortably. Comfortable walking shoes will also make it easier to get in and out of the boat, especially if you are taking an open-air cruise.

However, keep in mind that it can be cold on the boat, also because it’s often quite windy in Amsterdam. Even in the summer, you may want to wear a sweater (and sometimes also a jacket) on a boat. But in the summer, it’s just as likely that you will be fine in a T-shirt and will need sun protection too.

So check the weather forecast, but always pack one extra layer just in case.

Good to know: Closed boats have (some) heating in the winter, but they can feel really warm in the summer. Open boats have a couple of blankets on board, but they don’t always have enough for everyone, so they may not be ideal in the coldest season.

Just recently, we were in Amsterdam in June , and it was quite grey and windy on the day we took a canal cruise. The temperatures were around 18-20°C (64-68 F). I was wearing a light puffer jacket and was just fine, whereas my Italian friend who is not used to the colder weather we have here in the Benelux, was cold and had to ask for a blanket. They had just a couple of blankets on board that day.

So a lot depends also on what you are used to. In any case, I always recommend carrying at least a summer scarf or a sweater with you, even if visiting in the summer.

When I was in Amsterdam in December , most canal cruises were in closed boats, but I saw a couple of open boat cruises as well. If the weather is nice and it’s dry, it’s a nice option also in winter.

10. Consider evening cruises as well

In addition to exploring Amsterdam canals by boat during the day, consider taking an evening canal cruise too. Many bridges and buildings are really nicely lit in the dark and it is a really special experience.

Some cruises also offer dinner options, others – drinks and snacks.

Keep in mind, however, that depending on the season, it might get dark at 4.30 PM or at 10.30 PM. So evening cruises in the summer will be quite similar to the ones during the day; whereas in the winter, it’s not comparable.

Here are some of the best evening cruises in Amsterdam:

• Evening cruise . This is the most budget-friendly option and it simply includes a 1-hr boat tour.
• 1.5 hours cruise . This is the most popular evening cruise in Amsterdam.
• Evening cruise with drinks . This is an open-boat cruise including unlimited drinks.
• Dinner cruise . This is the best-rated cruise with a 4-course meal included.
• Wine & cheese cruise . This evening cruise includes wine and snacks.
• Evening cruise with pizza . This is a semi-open boat evening cruise with different pizza and drink options included.

Good to know: If you are visiting Amsterdam during the Christmas season , definitely book a boat cruise to see the artworks of the Light Festival . The Amsterdam Light Festival typically runs from the end of November to late January.

Yes, absolutely. Taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam is one of the top experiences and no visit to the city would be complete without exploring it from the water. That being said, there are big differences between boats, so for the best experience, be sure to pick the boat type that suits your travel style and expectations.

While it’s not an absolute must, we highly recommend booking a canal cruise in Amsterdam in advance. That way, you can be sure to have a spot on the boat type of your choice at the location and time slot that best suits your itinerary. Plus, by booking in advance, you can read real customer reviews, compare the best options, and it’s usually a bit cheaper too.

A standard canal cruise in Amsterdam typically costs 20-25 euros per person, depending on the type of boat and when exactly you visit. In addition, there are also canal cruises that include drinks, snacks, or even food, so prices can range up to 70-80 euros depending on your choices.

Amsterdam canal cruises typically take 1-2 hours. Standard sightseeing cruises take 60-75 minutes, whereas boat tours that include food or drink options typically last at least 90-120 minutes.

While most tourists opt for shared canal cruises, there are also private canal cruises available in Amsterdam. Prices vary greatly depending on the boat and the number of people, so be sure to compare before you book. This private evening/night cruise offers the best value that I was able to find.

It is possible to rent boats in Amsterdam, but I really don’t know if I would advise it if it’s your first time in the city. Private boats with a skipper are a much safer and more relaxing option. If you rather go on your own, the most popular rental option is a pedal boat .

Amsterdam canal cruises run the whole year round and are enjoyable in any season. However, we recommend avoiding weekends and school holidays, especially in the middle of the day. For a more relaxed experience, book a cruise on a weekday in the morning or toward the evening.

Yes, of course! Amsterdam canal cruises are suitable for the whole family (there are discounts for kids too) and most kids will love being on a boat. That being said, I recommend taking a boat that has an onboard bar or even includes drinks/snacks if you are traveling with children. They will enjoy it so much more and the food/drinks will keep them busy for a while.

READ ALSO: Amsterdam Travel Tips

So, these are our top tips for Amsterdam canal cruises. I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan a truly memorable visit.

Have a great trip!

TIP: Before you go, you may want to check our other guides to Amsterdam and the Netherlands. You can find a short overview below and a full selection here .

More travel inspiration and planning tips for Amsterdam:

• Best things to do in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam’s must-see museums
• Best places to stay in Amsterdam (close to everything)
• 1 day in Amsterdam
• 2 days in Amsterdam
• 3 days in Amsterdam
• 4 days in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam countryside
• Best day trips from Amsterdam
• Best tulip fields in the Netherlands
• Tips for visiting Keukenhof Gardens
• Kinderdijk Windmills
• Alkmaar Cheese Market
• Best things to do in Delft

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Friday 3rd of November 2023

Your blog is amazing, Jurga! So much useful information! We will be traveling with our daughters (ages 11 and 12) in mid-December to get the most of the holiday season. We are planning a day canal cruise (open) and an evening one to see the lights. Would you recommend an open, closed or partial for the evening one? We want to make sure we have a great view of the lights but are worried about the weather. Thank you and keep up the good work!

Saturday 4th of November 2023

Hi Erika, December can be really cold (windy) and rainy too, so a partially-open or a closed boat might be the safest option in the evening. I see that most cruises that offer 'light festival' trips are closed boats, but if you take a look at the pictures, you can see that some boats open the sides if the weather permits. So it's really your preference. In any case, dress warm because it's usually chilly even on the closed boats. Also, please note that regular canal cruises visit other places than the 'light festival' evening tours, so indeed, these would be two different experiences. Have a great trip!

Sunday 22nd of October 2023

Thank you for your blog, Jurga. It was very helpful. We just came back from Amsterdam and used your tips. We took an open-boat canal tour as you suggested and it was lovely. A bit chilly but they gave us a blanket and it was perfect. So pretty! Thank you once again!

Tuesday 24th of October 2023

Glad to help, Laya. Happy travels!

Friday 8th of September 2023

Thank you for the post! Im going to Amsterdam for the second time in the first week of november and im doing my research bc its gonna be my first cruise there! Great tips

Monday 11th of September 2023

Glad to help, Bianca. Enjoy Amsterdam!

Tuesday 20th of June 2023

Hi Jurga, we are going to Amsterdam in the first week of October and I cannot decide if we should book an open boat cruise. Do you think the weather will be ok or should be book a closed boat? Thanks

Hi Semi, we live in this part of Europe and if I can tell you one thing is that it's absolutely impossible to predict what the weather will be like months in advance. You can have the most gorgeous sunny day or a torrential downpour at any time of the year here. In general, the first week of October should still be quite nice and not too cold, so I would opt for an open boat or a semi-open boat. The tickets we recommend usually have 24hr free cancelation option, so if the weather looks really bad, you can always cancel it the day before and rebook for a closed boat. You can also simply opt for this popular canal cruise which uses a semi-open boat. The best of both worlds. PS Open boats also have umbrellas available. It could be an interesting experience to do it in the rain... Now that I think of it, some of our most memorable travel experiences are of those moments where things didn't go as planned. :) So relax, don't worry about the weather, and have a fabulous time in Amsterdam!

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5 of Amsterdam’s best canal cruises to float the day away

All aboard ⚓️

A canal cruise in Amsterdam is an ideal way to see the city from a new perspective — and these five cruises really make it worth it.

Feeling light and breezy as you drift past actual traffic from your cosy canal view of beautiful Amsterdam is pretty much Dutchness defined.

Ready to hop aboard? Your Amsterdam canal cruise is waiting for you. 👩‍✈️

Is an Amsterdam canal cruise worth it?

Is it worth taking a traditional boat ride on the canals of beautiful Amsterdam? One thing we can say for sure: the city looks different from the water.

While you might dismiss these boats as a tourist activity — well, that’s technically true but it’s for a great reason.

Amsterdam is famous for its canals, and while you can view them from ashore, a gentle boat ride is an ideal way to scope out the majestic canal houses, iconic locals riding bikes, and beautiful urban nature lining the streets.

5 best Amsterdam canal cruises

Of course, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you want to choose the best canal cruise Amsterdam , consider the following five cruises.

1. Pancake Cruise Amsterdam

A pancake canal cruise in Amsterdam is a real treat for families and those who love sweet and savoury delights.

This family-friendly cruise combines the joy of sightseeing with the indulgence of freshly made Dutch pancakes. These fluffy pancakes are a beloved local delicacy you can enjoy as you glide through Amsterdam’s waterways.

The cruise route offers panoramic city views, including charming bridges and historic buildings.

Perfect for breakfast or lunch, this cruise ensures a fun-filled and delicious experience that will leave both adults and children with delightful memories of Amsterdam’s canals and their mouthwatering pancakes.

2. Wine & Cheese Cruise in Amsterdam

For those with a penchant for fine wines and gourmet cheeses, a wine and cheese cruise in Amsterdam offers an unforgettable evening of indulgence.

This cruise delights guests with a carefully curated selection of premium wines paired with an assortment of delectable cheeses.

As the boat glides along the water, guests can unwind and relish the tranquil ambience while enjoying the city’s illuminated beauty during the evening.

The knowledgeable staff onboard provide insights into the wine and cheese pairings, adding an educational element to the journey.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply wish to enjoy a refined experience, this cruise promises an elegant and delightful time on Amsterdam’s canals.

3. Evening Canal Cruise

For the more nocturnal among us, an evening canal cruise allows everyone to have a night on the town, but in a family-friendly tour on the water.

“The Venice of the North” is no stranger to bustling nighttime activities, and this cruise lets you witness the city in all of its nighttime glory but from the comfort of a cushioned boat.

Not only do you not have to wake up early, but you can seize the plentiful photo opportunities provided by “golden hour” lighting at sunset, before sitting back and relaxing Amsterdam’s sparkling lights after dark.

4. New York Pizza by LOVERS Cruise in Amsterdam

The New York Pizza by LOVERS Cruise in Amsterdam promises a delectable and unique dining experience on the iconic Amsterdam canals.

This cruise combines the best of two worlds, allowing passengers to savour delicious, freshly baked New York-style pizza while drifting along the picturesque waterways.

A pizza cruise not only treats visitors to breathtaking views of Amsterdam’s landmarks but also ensures a mouthwatering culinary journey.

With a relaxed and cosy atmosphere onboard, this cruise is an excellent choice for pizza lovers and anyone seeking a memorable dining experience on Amsterdam’s scenic canals.

5. Amsterdam Dinner Cruise

Want to dazzle a love interest or significant other with some fine wining and dining? Treat them to a romantic dinner cruise on the water in Amsterdam, which offers delicious, professionally prepared cuisine complete with classy drinks.

Whether you opt for a meat, fish, or vegetarian menu, your palate will not be disappointed.

Plus, there’s nothing like a bit of a Titanic movie atmosphere to charm the person sitting in front of you — especially while romantic music underscores your journey through Amsterdam’s popular sites and the evening sunset illuminates your loved-up faces.

Where do Amsterdam canal cruises depart?

Taking a boat trip around Amsterdam is easy. Many Amsterdam companies offer them, but some of the most famous are Stromma, Lovers Canal Cruises, Blue Boat Company, and International Holland Cruises.

Generally, the boats dock in front of Central Station, and you can choose the prettiest one from them.

But if you want to cruise Amsterdam’s canals from elsewhere in the city, that won’t be a problem either. You can bump into them at all the famous tourist spots — for example, in front of the Rijksmuseum or the Anne Frank House Museum.

What to expect on an Amsterdam canal cruise

Amsterdam canal cruises come in all shapes, sizes, durations, and more.

To start with, the boats come in different forms:

• The most common are long, narrow boats with panoramic windows that offer a view on the sides and top. They are similar to buses from the inside, except that the seats are arranged in groups of four: two facing forward, two facing backwards, and a small table in between.
• There are smaller boats, including open boats. They are the best way to see the sights along the canal banks but are best kept for a sunny day.
• The best choice is a boat with a folding roof that can be adjusted to suit the weather.

The duration of excursions along the canals of Amsterdam is usually an hour and a half. Their itineraries do not vary too much and typically include the canals of Grachtengordel with sights that can be seen on their sides.

These tours usually focus on the Netherlands’ maritime past, its colonial policies, the East India Company, and the 17th century, a time of commercial prosperity and rapid expansion for Amsterdam.

If a regular boat trip is not enough for you, you can book a personalised guided tour or a combo tour, where a canal cruise will be combined with a museum visit or a walking tour.

Ready to jump aboard?

Exploring Amsterdam’s canals is an essential and unique experience that offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history and architectural beauty.

Once vital for the city’s development, these waterways now serve as its main roads, providing an enchanting view of Amsterdam’s picturesque landscapes and captivating buildings.

What’s your favourite Amsterdam canal cruise? Tell us in the comments below!

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Where are the ‘i amsterdam’ letters the complete selfie guide, exploring dutch islands: a guide to visiting texel, the 18 most magnificent lakes in the netherlands (near amsterdam and beyond), what do you think.

My Dutch cousin treated me to a canal boat ride only to have a bunch of hooligans spoil it for us all by hooting howling and yelling the entire cruise. It was an ordeal for me and embarrassed my cousin terribly. I hope some provision is made to discourage such ugly behavior. Being on a boat one can not get off to escape the boors which makes it especially abusive. The tour operators are in control and need to take responsibility for giving a pleasurable ride. .Many years ago and still painful to think of it.

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• Netherlands

15 Best Amsterdam Canal Cruises

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A visit to the Dutch capital isn’t complete without Amsterdam canal cruises , picturesque trips along 17th-century waterways lined with townhouses, trees and landmark sights. Navigating this gorgeous backdrop is a wonderful way to get to know this beautiful city as its charms, character and attractions unfold in front of your eyes.

With so many canal trips to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. So that’s where we come in with our pick of the 15 best Amsterdam canal cruises.

1 – Amsterdam: 1.5-Hour Evening Canal Cruise

Embark on an evening canal cruise that shows off the city sights and lights. During this 90-minute cruise along the Dutch capital’s scenic waterways sip on drinks from the bar as you glide past some of its most famous and captivating sights. They include the Golden Bend and the Skinny Bridge, a beautiful river crossing that sparkles under the illumination of its many lights.

During this enchanting Amsterdam canal ride, your guide will also provide you with insights into the history of some of the city’s tourist attractions as well as pointing out noteworthy restaurants and nightclubs.

• Evening Canal Cruise

2 – City Canal Cruise

Soak up some of the best sights in the city with a 75-minute cruise through the Dutch capital’s most famous waterways. Amsterdam is a canal city, so it makes perfect sense to do some of your sightseeing by water. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy awe-inspiring views of the historic centre and its centuries-old buildings as well as some of the modern buildings that are defining the dynamic 21st-century metropolis.

Highlights of this boat ride include the historical centre and Overhoeks. This is the city’s newest quarter, and it comprises residential, retail, office and cultural spaces.

• Canal Cruise from €16

Read more: Best boat tours in Amsterdam

3 – Volendam, Marken & Windmills with Free 1-Hour Canal Cruise

Some of the best things in life are free including a complimentary Amsterdam canal cruise that comes with this half-day visit to the beautiful green-covered Dutch countryside. Your adventure into a rustic wonderland of windmills and dikes includes visits to the timbered houses and historic windmills of Zaanse Schans and lunch at a traditional fish restaurant in the fishing village of Volendam.

This is followed by a trip to the island community of Marken to visit a wooden shoemaker and a cheese shop that makes cheese using traditional Dutch methods. Included in the price of this countryside excursion is a one-hour canal trip that can be used anytime during your stay in Amsterdam.

• Check offer

4 – Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket and City Canal Cruise

Save time and money while exploring the Dutch capital with a ticket that combines an Amsterdam canal cruise with post-impressionist masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh. Your enchanting trip starts with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum which showcases a rich collection of works by one of the most influential painters in the history of Western art. These include Sunflowers , from 1889, The Bedroom , from 1888 and Wheatfield with Crows , from 1890.

Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the canals of the bohemian and cosmopolitan De Pijp district which will take you by traditional merchant houses and numerous bridges and houseboats.

• Van Gogh Museum & City Canal Cruise

5 – Amsterdam: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Option

From cool clubs and trendy neighborhoods to lazy canals and historic buildings, Amsterdam has it all. To make the most of your time in the Dutch capital consider seeing the best bits at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour that also includes a hop-on hop-off boat tour. This fun-packed experience encompasses 11 bus stops and 10 stops across two hop-off boat routes.

All stops are near major attractions such as the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, the Church of St. Nicholas and the Red Light District. Included in this tour are a free city map and a GPS guide with 18 languages.

• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Boat Tour

Read more: Best city tours in Amsterdam

6 – Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise with 4-Course Dinner and Drinks

Amsterdam’s canals provide a spectacular setting for an intimate evening of good food and fine wine. Marvel at illuminated city sites such as the Skinny Bridge and the Hermitage Museum as you sip on drinks and tuck into a four-course meal that is freshly prepared and cooked on board.

Dine outside or inside the lower saloon and choose from meat, fish and vegetarian options. The price of this Amsterdam canal cruise includes alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and tea and coffee.

Read more: Best Food Tours in Amsterdam

7 – Keukenhof Gardens Half-Day Guided Tour from Amsterdam with Free 1-Hour Cruise

Immerse yourself in a sea of soft, fresh, and fragrant flowers as you travel through the Dutch countryside to visit iconic tulip fields at Keukenhof Gardens. This botanical wonderland boasts more than 800 varieties of tulips and other spring flowers spread across a 32-hectare site.

The gardens are only open from March through to May when the flowers are in bloom and a remarkable sight. Bring a picnic with you and enjoy this al fresco feast during your three hours in this picturesque setting. This countryside excursion also includes a complimentary one-hour boat cruise of Amsterdam’s canals.

• Keukenhof Gardens & Cruise

8 – Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese & Wine Cruise

Watch the sights of Amsterdam slowly light up whilst enjoying a fine selection of tasty Henri Willig cheeses. Wash them down with refreshing glasses of wine and look across the water at such illuminated landmarks as the Skinny Bridge. This crossing over the Amstel River is also known as Magere Brug and has a history that stretches back to the 11th century, although the present bridge was constructed in 1934.

As you sail along the water on your boat tour you’ll hear expert commentary about the Dutch capital and some of the places that make it such a fascinating place. This magical cruise is a wonderful way to round-off your day or start your evening.

• Dutch Cheese & Wine Cruise

9 – A’DAM LOOKOUT & Canal Cruise & Heineken Experience – Rock the City

Embark on a day of sightseeing adventures with a combination ticket that includes an Amsterdam canal cruise past iconic sights and visits to two wildly popular attractions.

The fun starts with panoramic 360-degree views of the city from the top of the A’DAM LOOKOUT. This observation tower also has Europe’s highest swing where visitors can swing 100 metres above the ground.

Afterwards, climb aboard your boat for a memorable one-way cruise along the 17th-century canal system. You’ll pass under iconic bridges and pull up at the Heineken Experience, an interactive tour through the history of the beer maker.

Also included with this canal tour combo ticket are two drinks at the Heineken attraction.

10 – Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum skip-the-line guided visit, lunch and cruise

Enjoy a hassle-free way to experience major Amsterdam attractions with a cruise combo ticket that lets you skip the queues at the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. This riveting full-day tour starts at the Rijksmuseum, which is dedicated to Dutch art and history from the Middle Ages to the present day.

After lunch at the museum, which is included in the price of the tour, it’s off to cruise the city’s UNESCO-protected canal district on a boat tour. This is a wonderful introduction to the city that will take you past churches, towers and charming canal houses.

Then it’s into the Van Gogh Museum, a treasure trove of work by the Dutch master and other 19th-century painters.

• Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum & Cruise

11 – Amsterdam Canals Pizza Cruise Including Drinks

Feast on a delicious pizza straight from the oven followed by delicious scoops of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream as you glide past some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights. This canal ride and dinner cruise is both a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.

As you sail along the Dutch capital’s atmospheric waterways your guide will reveal fascinating insights into landmark buildings and structures. There is a choice of six pizza types and also included in the price of this 90-minute cruise are unlimited soft drinks, beer and wine.

• Amsterdam Canals Pizza Cruise

12 – Amsterdam Dutch Wine and Cheese Candlelight Cruise

Amsterdam’s canals are a gorgeous sight but even more so when illuminated by the city lights. This romantic setting is simply breathtaking when glimpsed from a candlelit boat cruise. The evening canal cruise is set aboard a glass-enclosed boat from which there are stunning views from every angle.

As the captain navigates the 17th-century waterways and the candles flicker in the night air, savour a glass of wine or soft drink, Dutch cheeses, pickled cucumbers and other snacks. Your leisurely return journey will take you through the Canal Belt of the Amstel River and under bridges festooned with lights.

• Dutch Wine and Cheese Candlelight Cruise

13 – Rijksmuseum: Skip-the-Line Ticket and 1-Hour Cruise

Browse stunning collections of centuries-old art at the Rijksmuseum and go on a one-hour Amsterdam canal cruise with this combination deal. Climb aboard the boat for a picturesque tour that takes in the home of Anne Frank, the old Port of Amsterdam and canal side buildings and merchant houses in a variety of styles.

When you disembark you’ll whizz past the queues for fast track entry into the Rijksmuseum, the Museum of the Netherlands. Once inside, wander through exhibition halls filled with art and artefacts from the Middle Ages. Among the highlights are more than 2,000 paintings from the Dutch Golden Age, a period that spanned the 17th century.

• Rijksmuseum & Cruise

14 – Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Entrance to Xtracold Icebar

Combine your Amsterdam canal ride with drinks in one of the coolest places in the city, the Xtracold Icebar, which is made entirely of ice, even the glasses. With this combination ticket, you can take the tour in one go or each option separately.

As you travel along atmospheric waterways inside your luxury glass-topped boat you’ll pass a wealth of enchanting sights including 16th and 17th-century merchant buildings and the Anne Frank House.

When you arrive at the icebar you’ll skip the line and be able to enjoy three complimentary drinks. Also included in the price are the special clothes you will need to enjoy the sub-zero drinking experience.

• Canal Cruise & Xtracold Icebar

15 – Amsterdam Walking Tour and Canal Cruise

Explore the Dutch capital on land and by water with a three-hour walking tour and one-hour canal boat ride. The experience starts with a guided tour through colourful neighbourhoods and covers some of the most important sights in the city including the Anne Frank House, West Church and the 17th-century Royal Palace of Amsterdam, a colossal building on Dam Square.

As well as regaling you with stories about the capital’s long history your guide will also furnish you with lots of insider tips about the best restaurants, activities and attractions. Then it’s time for the one-hour canal cruise and unrivalled views of Amsterdam’s cityscape from the water.

• Walking Tour and Canal Cruise

Read more: Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

Looking for something else? Didn’t find the right cruise? Click on the following link to see the full list of Amsterdam canal cruises .

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Book a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

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Changed plans? No problem. Cancel up to 24 hours before the start of your canal cruise and you will get your money back.

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Enjoy a personal canal cruise through Amsterdam with an enthusiastic, genuine skipper.

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Our public tours

Pick your canal cruise boat

Step aboard the #1 best day cruise in the world and get ready to sail away through the Amsterdam canals on one of our unique electric sloops and saloon boats.

Public tour Amsterdam Luxury Cruise

Departure from Anne Frank House, Central Station or Rijksmuseum

• Duration: 1 hour
• Legendary cruise
• Unique 100% electric boat

Public tour Luxury Saloon Boat Cruise with Cheese and Wine

Departure from Anne Frank House or Central Station

• Learn about Amsterdam's history and cultural heritage
• Enjoy the unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks and cheese

Public tour Heineken® Flagship Cruise

Departure from Rijksmuseum

• Includes 1 beer from the Heineken® portfolio
• Scenic Views and Heineken Brews

Public tour Luxury Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Departure from Central Station

• Explore the city centre of Amsterdam
• Unlimited beer, wine & soft drinks

Public tour Amsterdam Evening Cruise

• Discover romantic Amsterdam
• Enjoy illuminated streets and bridges
• Small group with personal guide

Public tour Exclusive Canal Cruise with Dutch Snacks & Drinks

Departure from Keizergracht

• Duration: 2 hours
• Live & enthousiastic guide

Flagship Amsterdam video

Flagship Amsterdam Canal Cruise Boat Tours

Watch our short video to get a glimpse of a canal cruise with Flagship Amsterdam. Enjoy the sunshine and unwind on a beautiful open or classic saloon boat, drink in hand (yes, our boats come with a fully stocked bar offering beer, spirits, soda, and cocktails)!

Learn more about the rich trading history, culture and famous sights of Amsterdam. Book your canal cruise in Amsterdam quickly and easily.

Are you looking for a private canal cruise?

Fill in the desired options and request a quote for your private boat

With how many people will you be boating?

What type of boat would you like to cruise on.

Up to 35 people , including skipper, 100% electric

Riverboat small

Up to 20 people , including skipper, 100% electric

Riverboat medium

Up to 30 people , including skipper, 100% electric

Riverboat large

Up to 75 people , including skipper and hostess

How long do you want to cruise?

Where do you want to board, inside city centre.

Boats departing at Oosterdokskade 8

Outside city centre

Additional fees may apply

Would you like a drink on board?

Soft drinks package.

Soft drinks, water, ice

Basic package

Heineken beer, white and red wine, rosé, soft drinks, Spa water, ice

Medium package

Basic package + Prosecco

Luxury package

Basic package + Prosecco, spirits (Vodka, Rum, Whiskey and Gin)

Would you like to eat something on board? * Multiple options possible

Platter with appetizers.

For 10 people , includes cheese, sausage, nuts, olives, tapenades

Cold appetizers

8 pieces per serving , includes aged and young cheese, dry sausage

Warm appetizers

8 pieces per serving , mix of meat and veg, incl. sauces

Choice of different pizzas, meat and veg

Homemade burger with lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle and onion

Luxury sandwiches

Assorted sandwiches, 2 per person

Barbecue with chef

Extensive meat selection, including salads and sauces, baguettes and herb butter

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* All prices quoted are excluding VAT ** The prices mentioned are indicative. Actual prices may vary depending on the situation

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View the packages

Private Boat Tours

Would you like a unique private cruise through the Amsterdam canals? Choose one of our packages and get on board!

Private boat Booze Cruise

• Private boat with skipper
• Unlimited beer, wine and soda (ice cold!)

Private boat Pizza & Drinks Boat

• Cruise with pizza
• Unique experience with friends and family

Private boat Drinks & Snacks Boat

• Platter with various snacks

Private boat Barbecue Boat

• Fully arranged barbecue
• Unlimited beer, wine and soda

Private boat Burger & Drinks Boat

• Cruise with burgers and drinks
• Unlimited wine, beer and soda (ice cold!)

Private boat Prosecco Boat

• Relaxing on the Canals of Amsterdam
• Incl. one bottle of prosecco per person
• Perfect getaway with friends

Are looking for more fun activities?

Check out what the Netherlands has to offer!

Extra Experiences in the Netherlands

Discover a variety of activities in the Netherlands beyond the canals of Amsterdam. From exploring colorful tulip fields to visiting historic windmills in Zaanse Schans, and from leisurely bike rides to unexpected hiking adventures. Our recommendations cater to all interests and ensure there’s something for everyone to do.

• Walking, cycling, and bus tours in the Netherlands.
• Interactive experiences

Departure from Amsterdam

Public experience Day trip Keukenhof

• Ticketsale starts in January 2025
• Unforgettable experience
• Enjoy the Dutch countryside

Public experience Canal Cruise + Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

• 60-minute Luxury Canal Cruise with Bar
• Entree ticket Madame Tussauds Amsterdam
• Awesome day in Amsterdam

Public experience Zaanse Schans Walking Tour

• Witness the making of the famous Dutch clogs
• Free Digital Walking Guide
• Visit a cheese farm for a free tasting

Public experience Giethoorn Boat Cruise & Walking Tour

• Scenic Boat Cruise
• Walking Tour Included
• From Amsterdam to Giethoorn by luxury coach

Public experience Countryside Bike Tour

• Duration: 3,5 hours
• A good Dutch bicycle with 3 gears and handbrakes

Public experience Anne Frank Walking Tour

• Unique route with stories through the city
• Virtual Reality experience of Anne Frank House

Public experience Amsterdam City Bike Tour

• Duration: 2,5 hours
• Explore Amsterdam's Heritage and Scenery

What others think of Flagship Amsterdam

Amazing experience.

"We rented a big boat for Gaypride and we had such a great experience! The boat was perfect, in a great spot, and... working with Eduke was great. He was SO nice and patient with us, and reliable. "

Very nice cruise

"This is the cruise you should take! Why choose one of those standard tour boats when you could choose this one!! Super relaxed. It was so much fun! I highly recommend this."

Beautiful cruise, beautiful boat, excellent service!

"A day out with family in Amsterdam - a beautiful city when you walk around but you only see the real beauty of it from the water! Giel and Carrie were super and created a good, relaxed atmosphere on board with nice stories about Amsterdam. Thank you for an unforgettable hour on the Amsterdam canals!"

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THE CRUISE DETECTIVE

Home  » 5 Best Canal Cruises & Boat Tours in Amsterdam in 2024 (Personally Tested)

5 Best Canal Cruises & Boat Tours in Amsterdam in 2024 (Personally Tested)

Published: Jan 7, 2024 Last updated: April 5, 2024

Author: Adam Dimitrov — Owner & Head Cruise Detective

🏆 Editor's #1 Choice

✔️ tested by author

I tested the top five canal cruises in Amsterdam myself and found  Captain Jack'‍s  cruise to be the best. ‍

Here are the top 3 reasons why:

• Best Performing and Most Informative Captain
• Excellent Ship & Amenities
• Best Food and Drinks Variety

It is an excellent, well-rounded canal cruise with unlimited food and drinks , with the only downside of it being pricier than "only sightseeing" boat tours.

💡 You can also read this article in French , Spanish , Italian , German or Dutch .

The problem with river cruises in Amsterdam is that there are too many to choose from !

Each promises a great experience, making the decision difficult.

The stakes are high — no one wants a poor choice to ruin an otherwise unforgettable vacation, especially in a city like Amsterdam, which for many is a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fortunately, the Cruise Detective is here to help.

I embarked on a 7-day journey to Amsterdam to find definitive answers by trying out the five most popular canal cruises .

Each has thousands of glowing reviews, so the most reliable way to rank them was to experience them all .

This article gives you an incredibly detailed rundown of my findings. ‍

Note: I am not sponsored by any of the companies I review. I pay for my cruises with my hard-earned money and review anonymously to deliver thorough and unbiased reviews.

Disclaimer: This website uses affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps sustain my work. Cheers!

Summary & Comparison — 5 Best CANAL Cruises in AMSTERDAM

💡 Reviews are calculated using the weighted average and aggregate review count from GetYourGuide, Tripadvisor, and Viator.   I also include listings that I consider "arbitrary duplicates" of the original ones (e.g. the same cruise during the day vs night).

Is It Worth Going on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise?

Absolutely!

The canals of Amsterdam are diverse, fascinating and full of history, and the cruise companies set the bar high with well-executed and high quality boat tours.

1. 🏆 Best Amsterdam Canal Cruise Overall with Unlimited Food/Drinks (Captain Jack)

✔️ Best Cruise in the "Smaller Boat" Category ✔️ Perfect 5.0 Rating from 13,000 Reviews ✔️ Sightseeing Only (20€) and Unlimited Food/Drinks (40€) Tiers ✔️ 90 Minutes Duration ✔️ Cozy, Small Boat with Max. 20 Passengers ✔️ Comfortable Padded Seats ✔️ Best Variety of Iconic Dutch Nibbles and Drinks ✔️ Live English Commentary ✔️ Best Skipper Captain Experience, Can Talk with Skipper and Ask Questions ✔️ Boat Becomes Open Air in Summer ✔️ Two Meeting Points near Central Station and Rijksmuseum

❌ Tolerable in Winter — Insulated, but Not Heated

Note: Captain Jack also has a cheaper sightseeing cruise option WITHOUT drinks/snacks on the same cruise.

This is a 90-minute canal cruise that starts from either the Rijksmuseum or Central Station and takes a leisurely paced lap counterclockwise of Amsterdam’s canals, making it perfect for sightseeing .

Our skipper, an older gentleman, added to the experience with his entertaining and informative commentary , making the trip even more memorable.

For those who want to indulge in all the iconic Dutch nibbles , this cruise is perfect as it offers unlimited food and drinks with the greatest variety out of all the cruises available.

The boats have a 20-person capacity , so it won’t feel crowded. The seats are comfortably padded with pillows, and the boats are insulated in the winter but not heated. The boat loses its cover and becomes open-air in the summer .

In summary, this is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Amsterdam . It is a relaxing and enjoyable canal cruise with unlimited food and drinks, where you can sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of the city.

🎥 Video : Watch this short video I made of the highlights of Captain Jack's Amsterdam canal cruise.

Detailed Breakdown

• Captain Jack canal cruises follows a standard Amsterdam inner-city itinerary, but unlike most companies, they cruise the route counterclockwise, which I found quite enjoyable.

Meeting Point

• 🗺️ Near the Rijksmuseum: Museumbrug 2, 1073 AX Amsterdam, Netherlands
• 🗺️ Near Central Station: Prins Hendrikkade 33b, 1012 TM Amsterdam, Netherlands

• The boat has a capacity for up to 20 passengers. The sides are 50–50% split between semi- permanent wooden sidewalls and a temporary winter cover . The entire roof is also temporary.

• There’s comfortable padded seating with (Flagship branded?) pillows and a mini bar table in the middle where you can access snacks and drinks.
• Winter: The ship is well insulated but not heated , which on the positive side means there is no fogging of windows . I did not feel cold when I was in November. You get 360° panoramic views through the large windows.
• Summer: Both the wooden sidewalls and temporary covers are removed , and the boat becomes fully open-air .

Food And Drinks

• I have tried several “unlimited food and drinks” cruises, but this one had the most extensive selection of all.
• They had a v ariety of typical Dutch food that everyone would love to taste, such as stroopwafel, Christmas ginger cookies, Gouda cheese, sausage, crackers, and more.
• The cruise also offered a wide range of soft drinks, wines, beers , and possibly even Prosecco.

• On this particular canal cruise, there was only a captain on board, instead of the usual captain and service crewman who serve food and drinks.
• I really enjoyed the experience. The captain was an old-school sailor who fit the role perfectly and was a great storyteller , with a deep and distinct Arnold Schwarzenegger-like voice and accent. The pace of the stories was relaxed, and I appreciated the personal style of storytelling .
• Additionally, the cruise took a counterclockwise route in the canal, which was a refreshing change from the usual clockwise route taken by most cruises.

Live Commentary by Skipper

• Instead of a fixed audio guide, Captain Jack offers live narration in English on their cruises. The skipper I got was an older guy who exactly fit in the role of Captain.
• He was quite charismatic and his storytelling was informative and pleasant to listen to . He was happy to answer any questions we had during the cruise.

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: Runs every day at 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00.
• 🕒 Duration: 90 minutes
• 🎟️ Ticket type: Mobile/printed
• 🌐 Wifi: Not available ❌
• 💨 Open air section: Available (only in summertime) ✔️
• ❄️/🌡️ Aircon: Not available ❌
• 🐶 Animals: Not allowed (except service animals) ❌
• 🚬 Smoking: Not allowed ❌
• ♿ Wheelchair accessible: Not accessible ❌
• 🚻 Restroom: No ❌
• 👶 Baby stroller accessible: Accessible ✔️
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0–4), 25€ tickets (age 5–12) ✔️

2. 🥈 Best Sightseeing-Only Canal Cruise in Amsterdam (Lover's Canal)

✔️ Best in the "Bigger Boat" Category ✔️ Accommodates Up to 60 Passengers ‍✔️ Perfect for Winter, Well-insulated and Heated ✔️ Pre-recorded Audio Guide in 12 Languages ✔️ Complimentary Earbuds ✔️ Entertaining, Enthusiastic, and Knowledgeable Skipper ✔️ Great Panoramic Views ✔️ Small Open-Air Section at the Back

❌ Not Open-Air in Summer, but Windows Can Be Opened ❌ Single Meeting Point at Central Station

You’re in for an amazing treat with this 60-minute canal cruise starting from Central Station , which comes with a built-in audio guide available in 12 different languages.

Our skipper was an absolute gem, a true people person who kept us entertained with jokes, interesting commentary , and pointed out key landmarks throughout the entire cruise. He was fully invested in delivering an incredible experience.

The boats are quite long and can accommodate up to 60 passengers . There are 4 and 6-person tables , making it possible for larger groups to sit together. The audio guide was of excellent quality , both in terms of content and sound, although there might be some issues with the earbuds connection .

Disposable earbuds were provided , which was a pleasant surprise as it allowed passengers to enjoy the audio in different languages.

However, considering the Dutch are known for being environmentally conscious, I was not expecting disposable earbuds. Perhaps they could consider installing permanent headphones, like this cruise company in Budapest , to reduce their environmental impact.

The boats are covered, insulated, and heated during winter and stay covered in the summer , but the windows can be opened to let the breeze in. It is actually quite nice to be protected from the sun , in my opinion. There is also a few square meters of open-air area at the back of the boat.

In summary, this is another relaxing and enjoyable canal cruise for exploring the city’s sights and learning about its history.

🎥 Video : Watch this short video I made of the highlights of Lover's Canal's Amsterdam canal cruise.

• Lover’s Canal cruises follow the standard Amsterdam inner-city itinerary without any major differences from most other companies.
• 🗺️ Near Central Station: Prins Hendrikkade 20B, 1012 TL Amsterdam, Netherlands

• The boat has a capacity for up to 60 passengers. There’s a main indoor passenger area with tables and seats (4 and 6 seats/table) and also a covered but open-air area in the back . The seats were comfortable.

• Winter: The ship is well-insulated and heated . In fact, I felt it was a bit overheated, so I had to open the windows. You can enjoy a 360° panoramic view through the large windows.

• Summer: The ship is permanently covered , so it doesn’t change in comparison to winter. To stay cool, the windows can be opened. The back open-air area loses its temporary cover, which means clear panoramic views.
• Not available during this cruise.

• During the canal cruise I went on, there was only one crewmember on board, the Captain . He introduced himself as Captain Sparrow and had a laid-back personality that made everyone feel at ease. Throughout the trip, he kept us entertained with his humorous remarks about the various sights we saw along the way.
• He also made sure to point out where we needed to look to see what the audio guide was explaining at any given time. Overall, Captain Sparrow really set the tone for a fun and enjoyable canal cruise .

Audio Guide via Earbuds

• There’s an audio guide available in 12 languages (Arabic, German, Chinese, Russian, Korean, Portuguese, Japanese, English, Italian, French, Dutch, Spanish). The content quality is great , and I found it interesting.
• The Captain (“Jack Sparrow”) was a cheeky fellow. He really set the tone with his introduction and shared funny and interesting comments during the cruise.

• There are disposable earbuds available that you can plug into the audio guide on the walls at each table. It’s nice, but not too environmentally friendly. You can also use your own earbuds.
• I missed some of the narration due to a bad connection between the earbud cable and the audio guide. I tried both the disposable and my own earbuds, but I got the same effect.
• 📅 Schedule: Runs every day between 09:30–21:00 and ships depart every 30 minutes.
• 🕒 Duration: 60 minutes
• 💨 Open air section: Available ✔️
• ❄️/🌡️ Aircon: Available ✔️
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0–4), 10€ tickets (age 4–13) ✔️

3. 🥉 Also-Great Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Optional Unlimited Cheese/Drinks (Flagship)

✔️ Most Popular Cruise with Over 130.000 Combined Reviews ✔️3 Meeting Points — Central Station, Anna Frank House, Rijksmuseum ✔️ Sightseeing Only (20€) and Unlimited Cheese/Wine (32.50€) Tiers ✔️ Cozy, Small Boat — Max. 30 Passengers ✔️ Comfortable Padded Seats ✔️ Live English Commentary ✔️ Great Skipper Captain Experience — Can Talk with Skipper and Ask Questions ✔️ Boat Becomes Open-Air in Summer

❌ Barely Tolerable in Winter — Insulated, but Not Heated

❌ Spotty Winter Cover  —  Water Can Leak During Rainy Weather

💡 Note about reviews:  Flagship   offers one cruise with two ticket tiers - sightseeing only (20€) and sightseeing plus unlimited drinks and cheese (32.50€). You can even upgrade on the spot if you bought the basic ticket (or buy food/drinks separately). Flagship confusingly has duplicate listings on every platform for the  same  cruise. On GetYourGuide, both listings offer both basic and unlimited food/drinks tiers. On Tripadvisor and Viator, they have separate listings for each tier. Since these are one and the same, I'm using all of them for my review calculations. I hope it clears up any confusion.

Note: During my canal cruise, unfortunately, it was dark, freezing, and raining, which overshadowed my experience a little bit (visibility was low, so I couldn't see much and I was cold). I would definitely recommend going during the day instead of at night and hoping for good weather.

This is a 60-minute canal cruise that starts from either the Rijksmuseum, Anna Frank House, or Central Station.

The actual length of the cruise was more like 45 minutes whenI went, and it felt rushed. To be honest, I was so cold I didn’t mind.

Our skipper , a fine young lad who had strong energy and was in good spirits, added to the experience with his entertaining and informative commentary in English , making the trip even more memorable. There was also a friendly lady serving customers food and drinks.

During the cruise, you have the option to enjoy unlimited consumption of two types of Gouda cheese and wine . It’s great if you just want some chow and have drinks with your friends, but if you want to try the bigger palate of iconic Dutch nibbles, I’d go with Captain Jack.

The boats have a 30-35-person capacity. The seats are comfortably padded with pillows; however, the boats weren’t insulated well in the winter, nor were they heated, and I was cold. The rain also leaked in several places.

The boat loses its cover and becomes open-air in the summer . In fact, the boats may change slightly in size and features , so take a look at the listing for what boat you can expect exactly.

In summary, Flagship offers a great canal cruise experience for sightseeing. Personally, I’d book the basic ticket without the food and drinks unless you’re a cheese addict. I recommend going in the summer season during the day to eliminate the risk of dark, cold, or rain ruining your experience.

🎥 Video : Watch this short video I made of the highlights of Flagship's Amsterdam canal cruise.

• Flagship cruises follow the standard Amsterdam inner-city itinerary without any major differences from most other companies.
• 🗺️ Near Central Station: Stationsplein 26, 1012 TM Amsterdam, Netherlands
• 🗺️ Near Rijksmuseum: Museumbrug 1, 1017 RW Amsterdam, Netherlands
• 🗺️ Near Anna Frank House: Prinsengracht 263, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands

• The boat has a capacity for up to 30–35 passengers . The sides are 25–75% split between semi- permanent wooden sidewalls and a temporary winter cover . The entire roof is also temporary.
• There’s comfortable padded seating with pillows and a mini bar table in the middle where you can access snacks and drinks .

• Winter: The ship isn’t well insulated or heated , and I felt cold during my cruise in November. It was raining, and the water leaked in at certain spots.
• The visibility was not great through the plastic covers due to the darkness and rain. The views were slightly better through the glass windows.
• Summer: The ships become fully open air during the warmer seasons, and this is when this cruise becomes a hundred times better. They may switch up the boats slightly, but you can expect something similar to what you get in winter.

💡 Tip: If you like sightseeing, go during the day rather than at night. Otherwise, if you just want something to eat, drink, and hang out with friends, go during the night.

• The  drink selection  on board includes a variety of  beers, wines, spirits, and even prosecco .
• Only  Gouda cheese  is available during the cruise, in  soft and hard variety.

• Attending the cruise doesn't require purchasing the unlimited food or drinks option ; you can opt for a regular sightseeing cruise and buy what you need on board.
• Alternatively, if you originally purchased the cheaper option, you can upgrade your ticket on the spot.

• During the cruise, there was a full crew consisting of a captain and service crew woman.
• The crew made sure we were entertained and well taken care of throughout the journey. I cannot recall the name of the female crew member, but she was extremely accommodating and ensured that we always had food and drinks in our hands. Overall, it was a fairly decent experience .
• Instead of a fixed audio guide, Flagship offers live narration in English on their cruises.
• The narration was both entertaining and informative and the skipper was happy to answer any questions we had during the cruise.
• The cruise had more of an “ eat, drink, and get drunk” vibe , and not so much on sightseeing. However, this was heavily influenced by the fact that the weather was dreadful , and couldn’t see anything outside.
• 📅 Schedule: Runs every day between 10:30–21:15 and ships depart every 60–75 minutes.
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0–2), 13.50€ tickets (age 3–11) ✔️

4. 🎖️ Also-Great Sightseeing Canal Cruise in Amsterdam (Blue Boat)

✔️ Also Great in the "Bigger Boat" Category ✔️ Accommodates Up to 55 Passengers ✔️ Perfect for Winter, Well-insulated and Heated ✔️ Pre-recorded Audio Guide in 19 Languages ✔️ Complimentary Earbuds ✔️ Great Panoramic Views ✔️ Small Open-Air Section at the Back

❌ Not Open-Air in Summer, but Windows Can Be Opened ❌ No Skipper Interaction - As a Result Flatter Vibe ❌ Two Meeting Points at Virtually a Single Location near Rijksmuseum & Heineken Experience

Blue Boat is similar to Lover’s Canal —  they have large 55-person capacity boats with a built-in audio guide in 19 languages that can be listened to via free earbuds which they provide.

What I found to be a bit of a letdown, is that our skipper doesn’t interact with the passengers at all. The skipper didn’t make any comments or point out what the audio guide was talking about, and they didn’t even introduce themselves. In my experience, canal cruises with friendly, talkative skippers are much more enjoyable.

The same environmental problem with disposable earbuds applies to Blueboat as to Lover’s Canal.

Blue Boat vessels are excellent. They are covered, well-insulated, heated, spacious, and equipped with 4-person tables . No surprises from bad weather here!

The boats are kept covered during the summer , but the windows can be opened to allow fresh air in. I personally find it pleasant to be shielded from the Sun . There is also a few square meters of open-air area at the back of the boat.

The audio guides are interesting and high quality , but it would be better if the narrations were more frequent, longer, and identified the points of interest. Even a simple “to your left/right you can see…” would suffice.

In summary, Blue boat cruises are as good as any for exploring the city’s sights and learning about its history, but I find the lack of skipper interaction with the guests to be a negative.

🎥 Video : Watch this short video I made of the highlights of Blueboat's Amsterdam canal cruise.

• Blue Boat cruises follow the standard Amsterdam inner-city itinerary without any major differences from most other companies.
• 🗺️ Near Rijksmuseum: Stadhouderskade 501, 1071 ZD Amsterdam
• 🗺️ Near Heineken Experience: Stadhouderskade 550, 1072 AE Amsterdam

During The Cruise

• The boat has a capacity for up to 55 passengers. There’s a main indoor passenger area with tables and seats (4 seats/table) and also an uncovered open-air area in the back .

• Winter: The ship is well insulated and heated , which on the positive side means there is no fogging of windows . I did not feel cold when I was in November. You get 360° panoramic views through the large windows. The seats were comfortable.

• Summer: The ship is permanently covered , so it doesn’t change in comparison to winter. To stay cool, the windows can be opened.

• The regular sightseeing cruise ticket does not come with any food or drinks. However, I decided to upgrade my ticket for an additional cost of 10 euros , which included a snack box.
• The snack box had a soft drink (or beer or wine), chips, popcorn, peanuts, and stroopwafel . It wasn’t anything exceptional, but if you want some snacks to munch on , it’s a decent option.
• During the cruise, there was only one captain on board . However, he didn’t introduce himself or engage with the passengers in any way. He was solely focused on driving the ship. As a result, the atmosphere on the boat was duller compared to other cruises where the captain was more interactive and entertaining.
• There’s an audio guide available in 19 languages (Spanish, Turkish, Traditional Chinese, Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Dutch, English, French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian).
• The sound and content quality are great , and I found it interesting. However, the narration is too sparse (at least initially), and I felt the narration parts were too short. Additionally, it doesn’t point out which side to look at when discussing buildings.
• The Captain didn’t introduce himself and wasn’t an active participant in the cruise. As a result, the cruise felt flatter.
• 📅 Schedule: Runs every day between 10:15–21:00 and ships depart every 60 minutes.
• ♿ Wheelchair accessible: Some boats are wheelchair accessible, but call ahead for exact times ✔️
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0–4)

5. 🎖️ Yet-Another Great Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Open Bar Option (Friendship)

✔️ Also Great in the "Smaller Boat" Category in (Only in Summer) ✔️ Sightseeing Only or Open Bar Tickets  ✔️ Cozy, Small Boat — Max. 30 Passengers ✔️ Single Meeting Point is located in the heart of the city and can be easily reached from any location. ✔️ Comfortable Padded Seats ✔️ Blankets Available ✔️ Live English Commentary ✔️ Great Skipper Captain Experience — Can Talk with Skipper and Ask Questions ✔️ Boat Becomes Open-Air in Summer

❌ Intolerable in Winter — Not Well-Insulated, Cold Air Flows Inside the Boat and Isn't Heated ❌ Spotty Winter Cover - Water Can Leak During Rainy Weather

Friendship offers a 60-minute canal cruise that can also be a great option if you like the smaller, intimate, skipper storytelling cruise experience. This cruise is similar to Flagship or Captain Jack’s.

Our skipper was a middle-aged gentleman who added to the experience with his informative commentary , calm storytelling style, plus a lot of back-and-forth conversations. We also had a young gentleman who was our server.

Their boats can accommodate up to 24 passengers . Unfortunately, it was inadequately covered, so the water leaked in several places.

The front and back of the ship were left uncovered , and the cold air flowed in. Because of this, I was freezing and shivering during the cruise.

Thankfully, they had blankets , which helped keep us warm somewhat. But they should definitely cover the entire boat; otherwise, guests will start falling like flies due to hypothermia (joking!).

Otherwise, everything was great. The boat is equipped with comfortable, padded seats and pillows. During summer, the boat’s cover is removed to provide an open-air experience. Optional drinks and snacks are also available during the cruise.

In summary, excluding the bad winter preparation , Friendship Cruises is comparable to its competitors in the same category, but make sure to go during the summer.

🎥 Video : Watch this short video I made of the highlights of Friendship's Amsterdam canal cruise.

• Friendship cruises follow the standard Amsterdam inner-city itinerary without any major differences from most other companies.
• 🗺️ Near City Center Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, 1012 GK Amsterdam, Netherlands

• The boat has a capacity for up to 24 passengers. It’s fully covered by a temporary winter cover , including the sides and the roof. It was the flimsiest cover out of all the cruises.
• There’s comfortable padded seating with pillows and a mini bar table in the middle where you can access snacks and drinks.

• Winter: The ship is not well insulated and isn’t heated . I was freezing during my cruise in November, which detracted a lot from the experience. I couldn’t see much over the plastic windows and it was leaking in many spots .

• Summer: The temporary covers are removed, and the boat becomes fully open-air when this cruise, like all the others, becomes a lot more enjoyable.

• This cruise offers a variety of drinks, including cocktails, wines, beers, prosecco, and energy drinks . Guests can purchase drinks individually or opt for the unlimited consumption package.
• Food is not served on board.

• We were fortunate to have a captain and two servicemen on board, which made our cruise experience all the more enjoyable.
• The captain himself narrated the entire cruise and made it an interactive experience. We were able to ask questions and engage in conversations with him during the cruise.
• Additionally, we were well taken care of when it came to food and drinks. All in all, it was a decent cruise.
• Instead of a fixed audio guide, Friendship offers live narration in English on their cruises. Each skipper is different, and I enjoyed our young skipper’s narration, mostly because it was like a conversation. Naturally, he was happy to answer any questions we had during the cruise.
• 📅 Schedule: Runs every day between 11:00–22:00 and ships depart every 60 minutes.
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0–3), 9.50€ tickets (age 4–15)

TheCruiseDetective.com is your free guide to help choose the best river cruises around the world. We test, evaluate and review river cruises in the various cities around the world for your benefit.

Best Canal Cruise Amsterdam

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

Gerrit Vandenberg

Gerrit shares his love for the Netherlands from his home near Amsterdam, helping thousands plan unforgettable trips to the lowlands. Discover his inspiring journey "From a critical health scare to celebrating Holland's charms" . If you want to send Gerrit a quick message, you can contact him here .

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Hi, I'm Gerrit

I enjoy sharing useful tips about the beauty of this county.

Are you about to visit Amsterdam? Then a canal cruise is a must!

However, choosing the best canal cruise Amsterdam can be overwhelming.

I’m here to help sort through all the options. 

With so many providers and themes, it’s a maze out there.

Day or night, luxury or budget-friendly, a canal cruise with drinks or dinner, private, small group, or large boats. Which one to choose?

This guide will help you navigate all options.

As a local who lives here, I’m here to guide you between all the options.

Unlike bloggers focusing primarily on just one cruise experience that makes them the most money, I explore various options . I’ll ensure you get a well-rounded view to make the best choice.

Amsterdam’s canals are an iconic symbol of the city. The buildings are gorgeous, and seeing them from the water makes them even more impressive, day or night.

Did you know they’re a UNESCO World Heritage Site ?

I will start by discussing the various cruise types —basic, semi-open boats, and private tours.

Then, I’ll discuss different options for onboard dining , from classic Dutch snacks to a full-course meal.

I’ll move from classic cruises to more exclusive experiences.

Are you still overwhelmed at the end of the article? Pick the one that resonates with you most, or consider booking a 1-1 consultation with me, and I’ll help you choose, plus make your entire itinerary the best it can be!

Table of Contents

The most popular canal cruise in amsterdam, classic 1 hour cruise:.

Let’s start with the most popular option, the one-hour classic canal cruise .

It’s a quick, convenient way to see the canals . And there are high-frequency departures. 

Many operators leave from the Central Station area, but there are other departure points as well.

I recommend purchasing the Canal Cruise pass from I Amsterdam .

For just €16 you can pick one cruise from a list of six different canal cruise operators. There is always one nearby. And if one is sold out, you can take another. It gives you freedom.

For Central Station, there is Stromma or Lovers. I would go with Stromma, but the differences are slight. Stromma tends to be less crowded.

These one-hour cruises are especially great when you’re short on time. You can be on a boat within an hour of leaving the airport. Which is great.

Pre-booking is recommended , especially from April to September.

I previously used to advise against avoiding Central Station operators because of their easy business, but I’ve changed my mind.

They’ve improved significantly. In contrast, I used to endorse Blue Boat near Leidseplein (also included in the I Amsterdam ticket ), but recent changes and my recent experience with them changed my stance. I found it boring.

Semi-Open Boat Cruise by Lovers

 A slight upgrade would be buying a semi-open boat ticket from Lovers . These boats offer a mix of open and covered spaces, perfect for the always-changing Amsterdam weather, and are ideal for better picture-taking.

Departures will be less frequent, and the boat is a little bit better. However, it’s a little bit more expensive than the standard one-hour cruise ticket.

Expect a similar introductory tour as the cheaper 1-hour cruise.

⤷ Get your 1-hour Semi-Open Canal Cruise

Amsterdam Hop On Hop Off Canal Cruise

A great affordable alternative is the semi-open Hop On Hop Off Canal Cruise , which is something different. It combines the best of both worlds.

Again, it’s a bit more expensive than the one-hour semi-open boat option. But this is an all-day hop-on, hop-off, which also gives you transportation!

A hop-on-hop-off cruise is a much better option than the hop-on-hop-off bus , which I do not recommend (you’ll have limited views, and buses can’t go on the small streets lining the canal).

⤷ Get your All-Day Tickets For The Hop On Hop Off Boat Cruise .

Amsterdam Canal Cruise Smaller Boats

The next step up is going on a smaller boat . You can choose between open boats and small closed boats. 

The cheapest option is open boat tours, which are much better than basic cruises. You can’t beat the views if there are no windows. But the flip side is the consistently unreliable Amsterdam weather.

The most prominent new provider here is Flagships . However, they can sometimes be a bit thin on commentary and are more focused on selling drinks (since they go big on their onboard bar).

Other open-boat providers also offer a bar and better commentary. These get much better reviews. And the ones I also recommend. 

I especially like Friendship Amsterdam Cruises . It offers a more personal experience.

Their only negative review is a comment about a Bachelor party that arrived too late and was angry they couldn’t disturb other guests because they wanted to laugh (party). I think that speaks to why Friendship is a GREAT operator to choose!

⤷ Book your 1-Hour Friendship Amsterdam Cruise .

Luxury Canal Cruise Amsterdam

Small classic boats offer a more intimate experience, and the weather is less of a factor. They can also cruise along the small canals, giving you a better experience.

There is always live commentary by the skipper, and groups are much smaller. These are some of the best boat tours in Amsterdam.

Here are the two I like best:

2-Hour Exclusive Canal Cruise

This two-hour exclusive canal cruise, including drinks , is intimate, has 5 out 5 star reviews, and you just can’t beat the price.

It’s a beautiful classic boat . The tour lasts longer than any other, has live commentary, and includes drinks.

For just under €60, I think it’s a steal. It’s more than the basic tours, but your experience will also differ.

⤷ Book this 2-Hour Small Amsterdam Boat Cruise .

Slightly higher priced I like this 90-minute €80 boat cruise. It’s an even smaller boat then the one above, for an even more personal experience.

It’s a really good option with an engaged skipper who really likes his job and great commentary on a nice boat. You

⤷ Book this more intimate 90-minute Small-Boat Cruise Experience .

Best Canal Cruise Amsterdam Private Boat

Are you looking for an even more exclusive option? Then book a private cruise.

There are basic and more luxurious boats, and they come at different prices, but they all have one thing in common: You’ll have to boat for yourself. 

Private Canal Tour with Prosecco & Snacks for Two

I recommend this private romantic canal tour with Prosecco and snacks. They operate charming, solar-powered electric boats – basic, but eco-friendly, and it offers a fantastic open view of the canals .

It’s perfect for a cozy trip with someone special. The tour starts at under €200 for 50 minutes, but I suggest splurging a bit more for the 90-minute experience for a truly memorable time.

Evening prices are higher, but I will get to that later. 

⤷ Book this 50 or 90-minute Private Amsterdam Cruise with Prosecco for Two .

Alternative Solar Powered Private Canal Tour Up To 6 Passengers

Another excellent choice, similar in price, for groups larger than two is this option that accommodates up to 6 passengers.

It doesn’t include drinks. Thus the above tour is better for 1 or 2 people. But it’s an ideal pick if you’re planning a cruise with friends or family, making it a cost-effective choice for bigger parties. 

⤷ Book this Private Cruise for up to 6 passengers .

The Luxury Option

For a more luxurious experience, consider this private canal cruise on a classic wooden private boat.

It’s pricier than all the options above, but it’s an exquisite way to cruise the canals. It’s a beautiful boat. You’ll get an excellent captain. You can choose your tour length and amenities on board.

This is a genuinely private experience for those who appreciate comfort.

⤷ Book this Luxurious Private Canal Cruise on a Wooden Boat .

Specialty Cruises

Phew, that is a lot! 

I’ve covered everything from budget-friendly hour-long tours to luxurious private cruises.

But there’s (a lot) more to explore because now we move on to specialty cruises.

Refill your drink, stretch your legs, and then let’s continue:

Evening Canal Tour Amsterdam: A Romantic Experience

Amsterdam transforms at night , with the soft glow of lights creating a magical atmosphere.

Evening cruises offer a different perspective than day tours, highlighting the illuminated bridges and the charming interior of canal houses (because we Dutch don’t close our curtains).

Day cruises are fantastic for seeing all the architectural details, but nighttime is for romance .

Choosing the Right Evening Cruise :

• Basic Night Sailings : Lovers and Stromma, as mentioned earlier, provide basic 1-hour evening cruises at day rates. It is a cost-effective choice for those seeking a brief, no-frills experience.
• 90-Minute Evening Cruise by Lovers : This is the most popular budget-friendly evening option. It’s a longer cruise without extras, but it’s an excellent deal because you get 30 minutes extra and less rushed.
• Wine and Cheese Canal Evening Cruise : Enhance your experience with wine and Dutch cheese. It’s a delightful way to spend 90 minutes in this beautiful city, adding a romantic touch to your cruise.
• Private Evening Cruises : I highly recommend a private evening cruise for a more intimate setting. Starting at €225 for two, including Processo. I would splurge on the extra €100 to make it 90 minutes for a more relaxed experience.
• Luxurious Evening Cruise in a wooden boat . For the most luxurious evening cruise, I recommend this truly private tour in a classic wooden boat.

Note on Daylight Hours : Remember, daylight hours vary significantly in Amsterdam. We’re pretty up north here. Check sunset times for your visit to ensure you experience the canals lit up at night.

Can’t choose between a day or night cruise? If possible, do both ! At night the experience is completely different than during the day.

During the day the focus is mostly on architecture and buildings. At night, the focus is on romance and the soft lights.

Canal Cruise with Drinks Amsterdam

For many people, the basic no-frills canal cruises are too basic. I often get asked which cruises include drinks . It turns out that there are many options, from open boats to luxury private tours. And many offer a different twist. 

It’s nice to enjoy a relaxing cruise with a drink on Amsterdam’s canal cruises. But make sure to book the right package!

Here are different Amsterdam canal cruises with drinks included:

Small Open Boat Cruises

Friendship and Starboard : These companies offer flexible drink packages – no drinks, limited drinks, or an open bar. Both provide excellent value for money and a fun, social atmosphere.

I always recommend the unlimited offer. It’s super affordable and you don’t have to worry about a thing! 

Covered Boat Options with Snacks and Drinks

• Classic Amsterdam Boat Cruise with Unlimited Wine and Cheese : A more traditional and romantic option, offering wine and cheese. It’s a cozy choice, especially when the weather is unpredictable. Be aware that you sit on the side (with your back to the window). This makes it harder to take a good photo if the boat is fully booked. Also, be sure to book the right package. The cheapest advertised price is WITHOUT wine or cheese.
• Small Boat Cruise with Stroopwafels and Drinks : This unique cruise features delicious Dutch Stroopwafels and drinks. It’s a longer, more personal tour with live commentary, offering a fantastic Dutch experience. I love this one!

Remember, the right cruise depends on your preferences , from the vibe you’re looking for to the type of drinks and snacks you enjoy. An open bar can attract a different crowd than a wine and cheese cruise.

Dinner Boat Cruise Amsterdam

Experience dining on the water with these cruise options, each offering a unique adventure:

• Pizza Cruise : Ideal for a casual meal. There are two offers in Amsterdam, but this cruise combines better pizza with drinks and ice cream. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the canals.
• BBQ Boat Trip : Take this BBQ cruise for a meat lover’s delight. Live cooking, and unlimited drinks, including beer and wine, make for a memorable journey. It’s a carnivore’s paradise on the Amsterdam canals. Not a great option for vegetarians.
• Pancake Cruise : The Pancake Cruise is a fun, family-friendly option for something uniquely Dutch. Departing from the trendy NDSM area, expect a modern view of Amsterdam; this cruise has no pretty canals. Enjoy an array of freshly made pancakes with various toppings. It’s a buffet-style cruise perfect for lunch or early dinner. Drinks are not included but are fairly priced. Don’t expect restaurant quality, but Herman and I love it; we went twice and will go again in a heartbeat. It’s the atmosphere.
• Amsterdam Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu : For a more refined dining experience, this cruise offers a luxurious 4-course meal with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian. The menu includes soup, an appetizer, a main course, and a delicious dessert. With a 2-hour sailing time, enjoy the city’s iconic sights while savoring your meal. Drinks are included, making it a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience. Book early because it fills quickly.

Here is the full menu :

Soup: Green Pea Soup with grilled green asparagus

Appetizer: Beef tartare with poached egg yolk with fresh piccalilli, crispy brioche Main course: Beef casserole with potato cream, balsamic sauce, and green vegetables.

Appetizer: House smoked salmon with roasted potato salad and a wasabi mayonnaise Main course: Cod baked in the skin with potato cream, green vegetables, and Lime Beure Blanc sauce

Vegetarian Menu:

Appetizer: Brioche bun filled with airy scrambled egg, baked spinach, feta, avocado and a fresh salad Main course: Lasagna of roasted vegetables with tomato basil sauce topped with spicy Italian cheese.

Dessert (for all): homemade tiramisu made with Dutch Stroopwafels – Yum!!! 

Smoke Cruise Amsterdam

It’s not my thing, but for those interested in a smoke-friendly cruise experience in Amsterdam, there are two leading operators to consider.

If you wonder: “ Can you smoke on Amsterdam Canal Cruise? ”  the answer is yes, with the right company.

Amsterdam Smoke and Lounge City Boat Cruise

Known for its authenticity and positive reviews , this cruise provides a more intimate setting. While you need to bring your products if you want to smoke cannabis, they do offer Hookah/Shisha pipes for an extra charge.

Bulldog Boat Smoke-Friendly Cruise

The Bulldog is a well-known name in Amsterdam . Besides their large stores (coffee shops) they also operate a boat, offering more space then the Smoke and Lounge City tour above.

Both cruises allow for a unique Amsterdam experience, catering specifically to those looking to enjoy smoking in a canal setting.

It’s important to know that these boats cannot sell weed on board. That is why they’re called smoke-friendly. You have to bring your own.  

Bonus option: Amsterdam Canals Pedal Boat Rental 

Are you thinking, Gerrit, wow, that many options? But all these are so passive. Is there anything I can do more actively ?

I’m glad you asked because, yes, you can .

You can rent your pedal boat for an hour or 90 minutes. Go with the 90-minute option because an hour is insufficient to get anywhere.

You will have to bike and steer yourself . Make sure you’re fit enough to do so, and don’t be afraid because you will be among the large canal boats.

Tip: ask the crew at the rental location for suggestions on where to go for the smaller canals where the big boats don’t come.

How Does Booking An Amsterdam Canal Cruise Work?

That is simple, here is how to book an Amsterdam Canal Cruise step by step:

• Select Your Cruise : Click the links in this article for your chosen cruise.
• Pick Date and Participants : Choose your date and enter the number of people.
• Choose the Right Package : Be mindful of the details. Lower prices often mean shorter cruises or no drinks. 
• Finalize Your Booking : Select a time and complete your booking. Changes are possible up to 24 hours before departure.
• Arrive Early : To ensure a stress-free start, arrive 15-20 minutes before your cruise time. Boats don’t wait. Make sure to use Google Maps to find your boarding locations. There are so many of them. It’s easy to show up at the wrong place.

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What to Expect On a Cruise

All cruises except the Pancake cruise sail along the iconic, beautiful Amsterdam canals . But there are differences.

• Route Variability : Larger boats stick to the three main canals, offering a broad view of the city’s canals. Smaller boats also go inside narrower canals, providing a more intimate glimpse into Amsterdam’s charm.
• Cruise Duration : Cruise lengths vary from 50 minutes to 2 hours, with 60 minutes being standard. While shorter cruises are convenient, I find the 90-minute options more enjoyable, especially when they include drinks and snacks.
• Commentary Style : There’s a distinct difference between live commentary and audio guides. While audio guides offer language versatility and clarity, live commentary, often provided on luxurious cruises, adds a personal touch and can be more engaging and humorous. I like these better.

Each cruise type offers its unique perspective of Amsterdam . Choose according to your interests and available time.

What you’ll see on a Canal Cruise

Expect to see the city’s iconic 17th-century canal houses on any Amsterdam canal cruise. However, your experience varies based on the cruise type and length.

The smaller the boat you’ll choose, the more you’ll get to see. Some of the most beautiful hidden gems are off the main canals .

Also, sites like the Skinny Bridge, Artis Zoo, and the like are usually only part of the longer cruises , or with the open boats/smaller boat tours.

As you sail, listen to stories about Amsterdam’s past . It’s a history lesson you’ll enjoy.

Learn about the weird tax rules from the golden century, which explain so much about the size of the houses, its windows, and even the stairs to the front door.

Or that these grand houses are all built on wood, which might explain the dancing houses .

Other stories you want to hear are why all the weird hooks are attached at the top of every house. And if there is a reason behind the decorative gables, and the beautifully little plague stones seen in many homes. 

I want to warn you for some other blogs out there. Espcially from non local bloggers and the introduction of AI. You get to see these unrealistic (even complete nonsense) descriptions. Like this:

Here is an excerpt from an article ranking high in Google about taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam: “You’ll float down narrow boat canals, close enough to touch the canal walls and glide effortlessly under ancient stone bridges covered in moss. You’ll pass groups of teenagers hanging out, couples kissing, and people tending to their vibrant tulip gardens.”

It’s nonsense. I know 99.99% certain it was written by ChatGPT (AI) because only he talks like that and it wasn’t fact-checked or edited.

Most canals are pretty broad, designed historically for trade ships , and tulip gardens along the canals are not a thing.

This is precisely why I started “Hidden Holland” in a world where fully automated and unedited AI content and free press trips for foreign bloggers (with strings attached) are all too common.

I think there is a need for authentic content from people who know what they’re talking about.

PS: if you want to brainstorm with me to improve your trip and talk with a local, you can book a consultation call with me here.

Ok, my rant is over 🙂 Let’s go to questions:

When is the Amsterdam Light Festival?

The Amsterdam Light Festival is organized annually in December and a part of January. The next edition, edition number 13, will be held from  November 28, 2024, until January 19, 2025.

What are the differences among Amsterdam’s main canals?

The three main canals are:

Herengracht: Known for its Golden Bend and large, impressive canal houses.

Keizersgracht: The widest canal, lined with prestigious offices. It’s a little bit more boring than the others.

Prinsengracht: Most scenic, features the Anne Frank House, and connects to the Jordaan neighborhood.

Is an Amsterdam Canal Cruise a great activity with kids?

It can be fantastic to bring your kids, but I advise choosing shorter tours when taking a canal cruise with kids. Keep them involved, and if needed, get quiet activities for them. Please, no iPads with the volume turned on.

Avoid wine, cheese, and open-bar booze cruises with kids. Smoke cruises are 18+ only.

How about Amsterdam Canal Cruises and Accessibility?

Boarding can be challenging if moving around is more difficult due to the small stairs and low boat heights (to pass the low bridges). No ramps are available. You’d have to be able to climb down into the boat. Smaller boats are more accessible to enter than the big ones.

What are the boat sizes on these cruises?

When I’m talking about boat size, like a large boat or a small boat, this is what you can expect:

Large boats: (regular cruises) 50-80 passengers. Open boats: 20-30 passengers. Small boats: Typically 2-20 passengers, often 8 or 12.

Why are Rental Boats not part of this article?

I do not recommend renting a full-size boat to operate yourself. The canals are busy; the experience will be stressful if you’re inexperienced.

Plus, you won’t get the commentary and can’t sit back, relax, and take in the views. That is why I do not list them here.

I hope this article helped you choose a canal cruise that is right for you.

Choosing the right canal cruise in Amsterdam should reflect your preferences and circumstances.

Whether you’re intrigued by a laid-back smoking cruise, a luxurious four-course dinner on the water, or a laidback pizza or BBQ boat tour, there’s an option for everyone .

For those mindful of time or budget, the classic one-hour tours offer a good taste of Amsterdam’s canal charm without overcommitment .

However, if you’re looking to indulge a bit more, there are numerous ways to improve your cruising experience .

If you’re more adventurous and looking for a more hands-on approach, consider renting a pedal boat. It’s a unique way to explore the canals at your own pace.

Ultimately, whatever your choice, an Amsterdam canal cruise is an unforgettable way to experience the city’s historic best-known feature, the Unesco World Heritage 17th Century Canal Ring.

Find A Place To Stay In Amsterdam

Find accommodation in Amsterdam for the lowest prices on your favorite platform. What's great about this map is that it shows both Hotels , as VRBO rentals (like AirBNB but with lower costs).

Update your (intended) travel dates for accurate prices . TIP: Zoom out on the map (-) in the bottom right corner. This will show more options and availability.

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Would Like My Personal Help?

Planning a trip well is a lot of work and (or) can feel overwhelming.

Know I'm here to help with your Netherlands vacation.

When you book an Itinerary Consultation with me, I help you improve your itinerary and make your trip planning much faster and less stressful. I also enrich it with my unique insights and tips—local tips.

Unlike a blog article, with a one-on-one session, I can focus on you and your trip alone.

When you book an itinerary consultation with me, I take a look at your current itinerary/ideas before our call, and I'll start brainstorming for you. Then when we meet on the (video) call, we'll brainstorm together. And after our call I'll send you the recordings and a summary of everything we discussed.

30 minutes calls ar great for shorter trips up to 3 days, add 30 extra minutes if you stay in the Netherlands longer than that.

What is your favorite Amsterdam Canal Cruise?

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The boutique Amsterdam canal cruise company

Pure boats most popular canal tours.

Spectacular Evening Canal Cruise

1.5hr cruise incl. cheese platter and 3 drinks

Private Canal Cruise

The most popular cruise of the Amsterdam canals

Highlights of Amsterdam Cruise

1.5hr Cruise with Apple Pie & 2 Drinks

The Ultimate Canal Cruise

2hr cruise incl. Dutch snacks, craft beers & fine wines

Welcome to Pure Boats

The boutique Amsterdam canal cruise company.  We specialise in hosting private cruises, small group tours and fully tailored experiences aboard our collection of personally designed, luxurious electric boats.

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Morning Amsterdam Canal Cruise 75 min inc. welcome drink

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Excellent time.

My wife and I had a great time on the tour! The small boat/group was perfect and made the 2 hours much more personal than the larger boats. Our guide was very knowledgable, personable, and gave a great tour of the city. There were a variety of different snacks and drinks on board, which made the 2 hours even more enjoyable. We would recommend Pure Boats to anyone, and we look forward to another tour in the future!f

Highlight of our trip

I can’t say enough good things about our experience. Very classy, professional, and extremely friendly. We opted for snacks and open bar. Everything was on hand and excellent. I would recommend this company to anyone. From the most discerning, all the way to the most laid back. Amazing experience!

Tailor Made Experiences & Special Events

Lunch Cruise

Combine a delicious lunch cruise with a perfect view

Exclusive Brunch Boat in Amsterdam

Indulge in a freshly prepared and delicious brunch in Amsterdam aboard one of our unique canal boats

Company cruise

Treat your team to the best company outing idea in Amsterdam

Proposal in Amsterdam

We know how special this occasion is ♥️

Why book an Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Pure Boats

#1 — a true luxury amsterdam canal cruise.

Are you looking to book a Luxury Amsterdam canal cruise aboard the most high end and exclusive boats on the canals? Do you prefer to travel without looking like a mass tourist, and give onlookers serious boat envy? Look no further! Created by our in-house team of superyacht designers, our fleet of 4 carefully restored classic electric canal boats are truly unique and handcrafted to the finest quality.

#2 — A Fun, Informative & Personalised Amsterdam Canal Tour

It is our passion to provide the best service, with a pure and personal approach. We love connecting with smaller groups so that you can experience the Amsterdam canals as if cruising aboard your own private boat.

Whether you are joining us for a private cruise or small group tour, our selection of carefully curated Amsterdam canal tours ensure that we provide the perfect boating experience for you and your guests. 

#3 — Local Amsterdam Experiences

Your cruise with Pure Boats will be a true local experience. From the feeling of cruising on your own private boat to the careful selection of our products. From our gin to our tasty bites, if it’s not local we most likely do not serve it. Our selection of seasonal craft beers and quality European wines are a big focus. Paired with our Dutch farmhouse cheese, the comfort of our unique boats and the amazing canal views, what’s not to enjoy? 

By going local, we believe we can provide you with the best experience possible. Because this way you can not only see, but also taste Amsterdam!

#4 — Sustainable tourism

One of our  core values at Pure Boats is sustainability within tourism. That’s why we upcycled our canal boats from complete scraps to one of a kind, head turning fully electric canal boats. Our aim is to create a positive environmental impact on the Amsterdam canals, meaning you can enjoy classy sustainable design in a (close to) zero waste environment. So while you’re relaxing and having a good time on your canal tour, you’re also adding to a healthy and happy world! 

#5 — More than Just a Canal Boat Tour

We love to make you feel most welcome and comfortable, before, during and after your Amsterdam canal cruise. We genuinely want you to make the best of your trip to Amsterdam and offer much more than just a canal boat tour. From the moment you consider joining us for a canal cruise, we love to help with local recommendations of the new hotspots and other fun activities to suit you and your travel companions. Feel free to contact us to receive personal recommendations or have a look at our blog .

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Do you have a question about booking your Amsterdam canal cruise? Or are you already planning your trip, and do you want to know what’s on in Amsterdam during your stay? Contact us by sending an email via the contact form or give us a call! We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Telephone number: +31 20 2157420 Email address:  [email protected]

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• Amsterdam Attractions
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Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets & Tours

Select Your Experience

Sail through the city's iconic waterways on an amsterdam canal cruise.

Embark on a journey through Amsterdam as you glide along its picturesque canals, soaking in the rich tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. With over 62 miles of meandering waterways, dotted with over 1500 charming bridges around 90 islands, the Amsterdam Canal Cruise promises a quintessentially Dutch experience as you drift past historic buildings and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these canals are a living, breathing part of Dutch culture.

Whether you prefer a leisurely daytime excursion or a magical evening under the twinkling lights, there's an Amsterdam Canal Cruise tailored to suit every preference and schedule.

Navigate your Amsterdam Canal Cruise guide

Why go on an amsterdam canal cruise.

• Things to know before booking your cruise
• Your cruise options
• Find your cruise match

Amsterdam Canal Cruise route map

• Boarding points for your cruise
• Top sights covered on your cruise
• Plan your cruise

Frequently asked questions about Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets

See unparalleled views of Amsterdam

Imagine being gently whisked away on a boat, with the city's iconic landmarks unfolding before your eye. There's an undeniable charm to Amsterdam's canals that exudes romance and tranquility. From centuries-old architecture to modern marvels, the view from the canals offers a unique perspective you can't get on land.

Immerse yourself in the Dutch experience

The canals are not just a way to get around; they're an integral part of Amsterdam's identity. By cruising along these waterways, you're immersing yourself in the very essence of Dutch culture and history. It's like stepping into a living postcard.

Gain valuable insights

Many Amsterdam canal cruises come with knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories and insights about the city's history, architecture, and culture. It's like having your own personal tour guide, enriching your experience and deepening your appreciation for Amsterdam.

Create unforgettable memories

Even if you're not a photography enthusiast, the Amsterdam canals are a dream come true. Every twist presents an incredible sight. At the end of the day, what truly sets an Amsterdam Canal Cruise apart is the memories you'll create.

Convenient and comfortable

Let's face it, exploring a city on foot can be tiring. On a canal cruise, you get to sit back, relax, and let the city come to you. By booking your Amsterdam canal cruise, you get a budget-friendly front-row seat to Amsterdam's charm and cover multiple attractions in a short period of time!

Things to know before booking your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

• If you are on a budget, opt for a sightseeing Amsterdam Canal Cruise . These are the most budget-friendly option and take 60-90 minutes depending on the ticket you book.
• There are plenty of dining options on your cruise. You can dine on your Amsterdam Canal Cruise by booking a boat cruise with snacks or a dinner cruise . Check the menu that best suits your dietary preferences before booking your tickets.
• Consider an evening luxury cruise to see Amsterdam in its glory at sunset or at night. You can also choose to pair this with dinner by booking a dinner cruise .
• The cruise you book depends on the experience you want to have. You can consider booking hop-on hop-off cruise or combo tickets if you would like to explore beyond your cruise.
• Most Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets can be canceled or rescheduled. Check the cancellation policy for the tickets before booking. For most tickets, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your slot and get a full refund.

Your Amsterdam Canal Cruise options

Sightseeing cruises

• Admire the scenic Amsterdam canals and the city's rich heritage as you spot popular landmarks on your sightseeing cruise.
• Enjoy an informative and immersive experience with an audio guide in 19 languages.

Average duration: 60-90 minutes

Recommended experiences:

• Amsterdam Canal Evening Sightseeing Cruise
• Amsterdam Canal Open Boat Cruise with Optional Wine & Cheese

Dinner cruises

• Immerse yourself in Amsterdam's beauty on a dinner cruise with delectable 4-course meals, wine, cheese, or snacks.
• Indulge in a variety of culinary experiences, from pizzas and pancakes to a full-course meal.

Average duration: 90-120 minutes

• Amsterdam Canal Dinner Cruise
• Amsterdam Canal Candlelight Cruise with Wine & Dutch Cheese

Harbor cruises

• Enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam's harbor, the world's largest cocoa and petrol port, and learn about their history.
• Explore the historic NDSM yard or the Zaanse Schans with delectable food and drink choices onboard.

Average duration: 2-6 hours

• Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour
• Zaanse Schans: The Windmill Village Boat Tour from Amsterdam

Combo tickets

• Save time and money with a combo ticket and pair your luxurious Amsterdam Canal Cruise with a trip to one of Amsterdam's popular attractions.
• Choose between an audio guide or a live guide for a more insightful experience at the landmark of your choice.

Average duration: Flexible

• Combo: Rijksmuseum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets
• Combo: Tickets to Madame Tussauds + 75-minute Amsterdam Canal Cruise with audio guide

Find your Amsterdam Canal Cruise match

Boarding points for Amsterdam Canal Cruises

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruises start at one of these four docking points unless stated otherwise on your ticket. The details about your departure point and specific instructions regarding departure will be provided in your ticket. Each location is conveniently accessible ensuring smooth transit.

Blue Boat Company

• Heineken Experience (Closest tram stop: Vijzelgracht ; closest metro stop: Vijzelgracht )
• Hard Rock Café (Closest tram stop: Rijksmuseum ; closest metro stop: Vijzelgracht )
• Central Station (Closest metro stop: Central Station )
• Anne Frank House (Closest metro stop: Central Station ; closest tram stop: Westermarkt )

Please note:

• Kindly reach your designated departure point 15 minutes before the cruise begins to avoid missing it.
• Please carry a valid photo ID for ticket redemption at the departure point.

Plan your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

• Evening Canal Cruise on a Luxury Boat: 5:15pm to 10pm
• Evening Canal Cruise in Red Light District with Open Bar: 8pm to 9:15pm  
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with New York Pizza: 6pm to 11pm
• Pancake Cruise in Amsterdam: 5:45pm to 11pm
• Rijksmuseum Tickets + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise Combo: 9am to 5pm
• Van Gogh Museum Tickets + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise Combo: 9am to 5pm

The above cruises allow you to select a departure point based on your preferences. Their timings differ based on the departure point. Please check the exact timings at the time of purchase.

Best time of the year:

Peak season: The best time to go on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise is between April and October. The weather is pleasant during these months. This also means that these months draw more crowds and more expensive experiences. Expect long lines, packed attractions, and sold-out cruises.

Low season: If you want to avoid the crowds, book your Amsterdam Canal Cruise between November and March. Although the weather is chilly, these months see fewer crowds and reduced prices. You can also save money on flights, accommodation, and tickets.

Best time of the day:

If you want to explore beyond your Amsterdam Canal Cruise, opt for a cruise in the day. Book combo tours to save time and money. However, if you want to enjoy the sunset or dine, opt for an evening or dinner cruise. The latter promises a quieter and more romantic experience.

Heineken Experience

• By tram: 1, 7, 19, 24 (Vijzelgracht)
• By metro: 52 (Vijzelgracht)

Hard Rock Café

• By tram: 1, 3, 7, 19 (Rijksmuseum)

Central Station

• By metro: 51, 52, 53, 54 (Central Station)
• By train: Intercity, Sprinter (Central Station)

Anne Frank House

• By metro: 51, 53, 54 (Central Station)
• By tram: 13, 17 (Westermarkt)

Note: These are the most common boarding points. Your boarding point may also vary depending on your experience. Please check your tickets for the details.

• Arrive early: We recommend arriving around 15 minutes before departure to choose a good seat on the boat and settle in before the cruise begins. 
• Carry ID: Carry a valid identification card with you during your Amsterdam canal cruising experience.
• Choose guided cruises: It is best to choose canal cruise tours that include a professional guide or an audio guide for a more informative and memorable experience.
• Check the weather: Open boat tours are ideal for catching impeccable views of the surrounding landmarks. However, make sure to check the weather before booking them. 
• Check details before purchasing: Check all details before booking your Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Check the timings, departure points, exclusions, inclusions, and other details. 
• Book in advance: It's advisable to book your canal cruise tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Cocktail Cruise with a Stocked Bar: Damrak Gin, Heineken beer, wines, (sparkling) water, Gin Tonics
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Wine & Cheese: Cheese, beer, wine, and soft drinks
• Amsterdam Canal Dinner Cruise: 4-course meal ( Menu )
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with All-You-Can-Eat Pancakes: Pancakes, toppings, drinks
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Pizza: Pizza ( Menu ), drinks, desserts

• Free city map on all Lovers boats
• GPS audio guides in multiple languages
• Lost and found
• Wheelchair accessible (Only Blue Boat cruises)
• Dining options

Top sights covered on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Maritime Museum

Dedicated to the country’s maritime museum, the Amsterdam National Maritime Museum houses artifacts related to shipping and sailing, including paintings, scale models, weapons, and world maps. Constructed in 1656, it is located in a former naval storehouse.

Amsterdam bridges you can spot on your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Amsterdam Canal Cruises offer sightseeing, evening, dinner, and harbor cruises. If you’re out to see Amsterdam and her canals in all their glory, a sightseeing cruise is the perfect option. Opt for an evening cruise if you want to see Amsterdam come to life as some of the most popular attractions and cozy cafes on its banks begin to light up and come to life. Pair that spectacular view with a 4-course meal and drinks on a dinner cruise. And if you want to explore more, explore Amsterdam’s ports and villages on a harbor cruise.

Yes, there are evening cruises. You can opt for the 90-minute Amsterdam Canal Evening Sightseeing Cruise with audio guides in 21 languages or the 1-hour Amsterdam Canal Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise . Both options serve drinks. You can choose to upgrade your tickets with warm blankets and live expert guides for a more immersive experience.

An Amsterdam Canal Cruise can range from £14.50 to £44.16 based on the experience you book. A standard sightseeing cruise includes an audio guide available in several languages. However, you can also opt for snacks and drinks on your cruise for an additional price. Dinner cruises offer a serene cruise along Amsterdam’s canals with a 4-course meal and drinks. Combo tickets, while more expensive at first glance, offer entry to other popular attractions in Amsterdam in addition to your cruise, saving you the hassle of booking separate tickets.

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets exclude the £1.50 tourist tax per person that must be paid on-site.

Booking your tickets early is always a great idea as same-day bookings are often more expensive than pre-booked tickets. For those traveling with family, children under 14 enjoy discounted prices, and infants under 3 travel free. However, don’t forget to carry ID to show at the boarding point. Another great tip to save money: book your tickets for a weekday because some cruises offer discounted prices on these days.

Most Amsterdam canal cruise tours have a flexible cancellation policy. If you book these canal cruise tickets online, you can cancel them up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase. 

Irrespective of the type of cruise you opt for, most Amsterdam Canal Cruises are 60-90 minutes long. Harbor cruises can take up to 2 hours. 

On an Amsterdam Canal Cruise, you will sail past popular attractions like the NEMO Science Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Hermitage Museum, and the Royal Theatre Carre, many of Amsterdam’s famous bridges including Magere Brug, scenic streets and quintessential neighborhoods like De Negen Straatjes and The Golden Bend, and of course, Amsterdam’s canals that are over 100 km.

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruises come equipped with a GPS audio guide available in 19-21 languages such as Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian based on the ticket you purchase. Some tickets also come with a live guide who will answer any questions. However, dinner cruises do not include a guide.

Only boats serviced by Blue Boat company offer such cruises. Wheelchair-accessible boats only depart from the dock opposite Hard Rock Cafe, one of the four major docking points for Amsterdam Canal Cruises.

Yes, you can bring your pets on some Amsterdam canal cruises. Make sure to check the ticket details before bringing your pets along. The 1-hour Open Boat Amsterdam Cruise with Optional Wine and Cheese and 1-hour Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise in Amsterdam allow pets on board. 

While most sightseeing tours do not include meals, you can upgrade your canal cruise tickets to include a snack box, which will be delivered after you board the cruise. Alternatively, you can book a dinner cruise for a 4-course meal on your cruise.

Some Amsterdam Canal Cruise boats are equipped with a free city map, GPS audio guide in multiple languages, and heaters. Most boats (except open boats) are equipped with toilets. 

The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual festival, where renowned artists from around the world come together to create stunning light art installations along its historic canals. If you visit Amsterdam around November to January, you can book special Light Festival cruises to witness these installations. 

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Guide to Amsterdam Canal Cruises

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris 

​ Amsterdam is quite famously a city of water, and a canal tour is a classic introduction to the city that no visitor should miss. While every Amsterdam  canal tour features spectacular views from the water, most visitors will find it worth the few extra euro for an intimate, live-narrated tour instead of the conventional "mass" tour with pre-recorded audio commentary; we've profiled both below.

• Plastic Whale Best for:  Tours that educate visitors not only about the city and its canals, but also waste and the environment. What's with the nets? On a Plastic Whale tour, visitors can literally fish in the historic canals - not for fish, with rods, but for plastic waste, with nets. (Of course, you can also just kick back and listen to the live commentary, but then you'd miss out on half the fun.) The plastic waste is recycled into the very material that Plastic Whale's electric tour boats are built from - a fact that no one would ever notice, if it weren't such a source of pride for the company. Tours depart from Het Grachtenhuis.
• Those Dam Boat Guys Best for:  Intimate, alternative canal tours of the city. These tours are pretty much the polar opposite of the sterile conventional canal tour; with their BYOB policy and PG-13 commentary, these smoker-friendly cruises are personally led by expats who exude a convert's zeal for their adopted city. While the company's website is quick to point out that it's not a party boat, the atmosphere is more like that of a  brown café   than the school-trip feel of their competitors.
• KINboat Best for:  Spirited renditions of the classic city canal tour, in electric boats. Established in 2015, KINboat takes the conventional canal tour to the next level, with personable skippers that ply classic routes on comfortable, electric boats. Group tours last either 75 or 90 minutes, and depart from Amsterdam Central Station. Private boats and catered tours are also available; consider the lunch tours for a casual meal on the water.
• Leemster Canal Cruises Best for:  Classic boat enthusiasts. This one's for the boat aficionados - a 75-minute tour on a beautifully-preserved timber saloon boat, easily the most handsome tour boat on the city's canals. The boat seats up to 12 people, and the skipper is usually the company owner, who narrates the scenery as he steers. Departure times aren't fixed; just call or send an email or SMS (info on the company website) to reserve a spot - even last-minute requests can often be honored.

Conventional Canal Tours

These tour operators specialize in classic routes that feature all the essential city attractions, and most additionally offer food-themed tours and combo cruises that include museum admission. There are several benefits to these "conventional" tour operators; their standard tours have frequent departure times from central points in the city, at a lower price point than the companies above. But while the scenery from the water is unimpeachable in its beauty, these crowded tours, with their fixed routes and pre-recorded commentary, leave less room for personality.

• Blue Boat Company Blue Boat is your typical canal-tour operator, but with a few unique tours up its sleeve. It offers the only kids' canal tour in the city, which takes under-12's on a "freshwater pirate" adventure while their parents listen to the standard commentary.
• Canal Company These operators offer one-hour tours that depart from the Damrak , near Amsterdam Central Station (CS). There's also the Harbour Cruise, which takes in the IJ River and the Port of Amsterdam. The company also operates a hop-on, hop-off Canal Bus, and the self-peddled "Canal Bike", a paddle boat for the city canals. 
• Lovers Much like other conventional tour operators, Lovers offers a classic one-hour tour which departs across from Amsterdam CS, plus catered cruises and a hop-on, hop-off service. Rederij P. Kooij
• Established in 1922, P. Kooij is possibly the oldest Amsterdam canal tour operator, with the benefit that prices for its standard tour are also behind the times; at the time of publication, this is the lowest-priced one-hour canal tour, and follows a similar route as the competition. Tours depart from the southern Binnenstad, at Rokin opposite number 125.
• Amsterdam Canal Cruises Classic tours with a departure point in the southern city (De Pijp), namely Stadshouderskade - opposite the  Heineken Brewery  and a few minutes' walk from the  Vondelpark  (to the west) and  Albert Cuypmarkt  (to the east).

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This Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Was Just Named the No. 1 Travel Experience in the World — and It Comes With Unlimited Wine and Cheese

You had us at "unlimited wine."

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

When you're on vacation, time is valuable. There's nothing worse than spending a day (and your money) doing something that ends up being a total letdown. That's where companies like Tripadvisor come in. Each year, they compile traveler feedback to highlight the activities that are well worth your time.

This year, one experience stood out, topping the list of overall experiences in the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards . With 9,529 five-star reviews out of 9,998 reviews on Tripadvisor, the Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise with Flagship Amsterdam easily took the No. 1 spot.

The cruise, which takes you through Amsterdam's iconic canals on an electric saloon boat, is not the sort of experience where you're herded on a boat with hundreds of other tourists. The capacity on the company's open-air boats is small, typically around 30 people. The entire one-hour experience is intimate and the level of service is top-notch — each cruise has a private skipper and an English-speaking guide who knows all the ins and outs of Amsterdam. Travelers also note that the crew is more than happy to dole out local restaurant and activity recommendations.

As you cruise along the canals, you'll pass the city's most famous landmarks — including the Jordaan neighborhood and the Rijksmuseum — while the guide shares insight into Amsterdam's rich trading history and culture. The waterway tour provides great photo ops — especially as you glide under the city's many bridges (including Magere Brug, a.k.a. Skinny Bridge) and pass by the swanky Golden Bend neighborhood, home to the city's most coveted canal houses.

The tour starts in front of the Anne Frank House , in the heart of the city, making it the perfect follow-up to a morning spent at the museum.

And while the experience of being out on the water is easily the highlight of the trip, the experience is only enhanced by the food and wine that accompanies it. As you board the cruise, you'll be greeted with a spread of Dutch cheese and unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. Travelers confirm that there's nothing quite like sipping on a glass of wine and nibbling on cheese while passing by the stunning canal houses lining the water.

The canal cruise with Flagship Amsterdam is currently $24.08 on Tripadvisor . You can also book directly through Flagship Amsterdam . If booking on Tripadvisor, you can cancel your trip up to two days before your experience without being charged. Those looking for a more flexible cancellation policy might want to book directly with Flagship Amsterdam, which has a 24-hour cancellation policy.

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HollandDreams

Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Best Offers and Travel Planning Tips

Amsterdam canals are a point of pride for the Netherlands. In the Middle Ages, Amsterdam was already a city of canals. During the 17 th to 18 th centuries, the canals of Amsterdam was the main factor of Amsterdam’s economic growth.

Today, the canals ( grachten in Dutch) are one of the best attractions in Amsterdam. Besides, they are probably the main reason why Amsterdam is so beautiful!

Undoubtedly, an Amsterdam canal cruise is a must-do for any visitor to Amsterdam, especially first-timers. There’s simply so much you can learn about this Dutch city capital from its waterways.

Which Amsterdam Canal Cruise is the Best?

You might wonder whether a canal cruise is really worth it. The short answer is: YES, definitely! There are countless things to see in Amsterdam , but the best things about Amsterdam is the cityscape as a whole. A canal cruise gives your trip a whole different perspective. To be honest, some of the best views you can get of this city are from its canals. The best example are the iconic Seven Bridges (seven Amsterdam canal bridges lined up in perfect order). You’ll get a close look on the picturesque old houses with centuries-old gables , and you can even take a peek inside some houseboats as you cruise along the water.

Which Amsterdam canal cruise is the best for you mainly depends on how much time you have, and how much of that time you want to spend on a boat. To get the experience and see the attractions I mentioned above, a simple one-hour boat trip will be enough.

In a city where canals play such an important role, it’s no surprise that there are over 100 providers for canal cruises! There are classic canal cruises (on large boats with live commentary), private boat rentals, hop on hop off canal cruise, to canal cruises with food options. That said, you can very well do more than a short boat ride, but plan a romantic evening with your partner or a fun evening with friends on a boat.

1. Guided Canal Cruise

Guided boat tours are a great option if you’re in Amsterdam for a weekend trip, and want to make the most of your time there. A guided boat tour will take about an hour so it’s easy to squeeze into your itinerary.

On this type of canal cruise, you’ll get on board of a large boat with other people. It’s the most cost-effective option, so it’s definitely the best for low-budget and solo-travelers.

2. Private Boat Tours

To explore Amsterdam’s canals at your own pace, you could go for a private boat tours. They are pricier, but they are often longer (at least 2 hours) and will have a smaller amount of people on board. Either way, you’ll have access to a knowledgeable skipper and staff who’re able to tell you many things about the landmarks you’ll come across during your cruise.

Our tip: Feeling fit? For a unique experience, book a Pedal Boat Tour and cycle your way around Amsterdam’s waterways.

3. Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Food (or Drinks)

One of the best things you can take is a food-related Amsterdam canal cruise. It’s fun, educational, and of course, filling! There are plenty of themes to choose from, so one’s bound to suit your fancy. But then again, who says you only need to book one cruise?

Here are just some of the food- and drink-centric tours you can take: Early Morning Breakfast Tour , Dutch Cheese Cruise, Wine and Dine Tour, BBQ Cruise , Dutch Beer Tour, New York Pizza Cruise, Booze Cruise , Dutch Pancake Tour, and more.

4. Canal Cruise Amsterdam at Night

You can take a canal cruise day or night. Most people opt for day cruises because that’s when you’ll have a great view on most of the sights.

Nevertheless, a night canal cruise is a great experience too! It’s more about the atmosphere that you’ll get, rather than the sightseeing part. It’s definitely a romantic experience to do with your partner. But even when you’re alone (or with friends), a canal cruise at night could be interesting for you.

Our tip is to do a night cruise during winter time, especially before Christmas. At that time of the year, it gets dark as early as 5 p.m. The ambiance in Amsterdam during Christmas is truly beautiful.

One of the cruises we took was a dinner cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival in December. During this time, light artworks or sculptures decorate the canals giving them a magical and very Christmas-y feel. Themes vary each year so please do check what’s on offer if you decide to opt for this.

Amsterdam Canal Cruise – Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find the answers to the most frequently asked questions on Amsterdam canal cruises. By the way, if you have any question to which you didn’t find an answer in this article, please leave us a comment down the page. We’re happy to help!

What does a canal tour cost?

As of this writing, the average 1-hour boat tours are €12 to €25 per person.

Do tour operators have different routes?

Routes can vary slightly among different tour operators. However, it doesn’t really matter which one you go for. All canal cruises will take you past famous landmarks such as the Anne Frank House , the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), the Seven Bridges, etc.

Do I need to book an Amsterdam canal cruise in advance?

We recommend that you book your Amsterdam canal cruise online. This is to ensure that you get the best deal for your selected tour. Besides, canal cruises get booked out quickly, especially in summer time. Booking online will ensure you can get on board at the time slot of your choice, at the lowest price.

What’s the best time for a canal cruise?

The summer months (June-September) are undoubtedly the busiest times for Amsterdam canal tours. Sure, the canals may be a bit crowded, but this is also the time when you can either be on an open deck or when boats have their roofs open so this is also when you can get the best views.

Check out the local vacation days and if possible, book your canal tour just a week before (or after) everyone else is on holiday. If you’re in Amsterdam during peak season, book your cruise in the morning or late in the afternoon. The sunsets very late during summer, often not before 9 p.m., so you’ll still have enough light to take those Instagram-worthy pics without very big crowds.

December is also a good time for a canal cruise. Right before Christmas, bridges and houses along the canals are beautifully illuminated which created a romantic ambiance.

Where do Amsterdam canal cruises depart?

Your ticket will give instructions on where to go to board your cruise. Often, these will be around Amsterdam Central Station or known landmarks such as the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum.

Should I tip on a canal cruise?

Some tours may ask for tips at the end of the tour but no, you’re not obligated to leave a tip. (Most locals don’t.) But of course, if you had an excellent time and believe that the skipper and/or staff provided excellent service then tips are usually 5-10% of your bill.

Does my I amsterdam City Card include a free canal cruise?

You bet it does! Please check the I amsterdam site or the website of the canal cruise company you’re interested to book with for up to date information.

About Kitty & Yogesh

Hoi! We’re Kitty and Yogesh, expats in the Netherlands. HollandDreams is a blog dedicated to traveling and living in the Netherlands. Together with our beagle dog Pépa, we travel across the country to explore exciting destinations and gather useful tips for travelers and expats.

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The Guide to finding the perfect Amsterdam canal cruise

Things to do in Amsterdam Cruises in Amsterdam Amsterdam Canal Cruises Best Amsterdam Canal Cruises

You know the warm and fuzzy feeling you have when you are totally at ease? That’s what being in Amsterdam will give you- a sense of conviviality, or what the locals call Gezellig. This open-heartedness of the Dutch Capital attracts more than five million tourists every year. Nicknamed the Venice of the North, the unparalleled beauty of this ancient canal city originates from the rich cultural and artistic history that flows along its intricate network of canals and bridges. No trip to the Dutch capital is complete without experiencing an Amsterdam Canal Cruise and in this article we will walk you through all you need to know before you select a canal cruise.

Quick Jumplinks To Navigate The Guide

What makes an amsterdam canal cruise special, how to pick the best amsterdam canal cruise, 10 best amsterdam canal cruise tickets, amsterdam canal cruises, amsterdam culinary cruises.

• Amsterdam Combo Cruise

Know Before Going On An Amsterdam Canal Cruise

The origin of present-day Amsterdam can be traced back to the 12th Century. It was then known as Aemstelredamme, a ‘dam in river Amstel’ which was built across the saltwater inlet called IJ by the fisher folk who lived along the river banks. Records suggest that it was in the early 1300’s that the canal city’s name evolved from Amstelland to Amsterdam. At the turn of the 17th Century, Amsterdam entered the Golden Age. With the maritime success at its peak, and trade and business flourishing, the city saw an unprecedented urban expansion during this time.

The concentric semi-circular canal ring that was built in the 17th Century includes Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht and Jordaan. The canal ring was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. The complete loop of canals in Amsterdam is made up of 165 canals with a combined length of over 100 kilometers. These 400 years-old canal networks connect every part of Amsterdam with the help of more than 1700 bridges. One of the best ways to experience the historical marvel that is Amsterdam is by cruising through the city’s waterways. In this article, we will tell you all that you need to know about choosing the perfect cruise option.

If you are headed to Amsterdam, and want to explore the city in its entirety, getting on a canal cruise would be your best bet. However, remember to consider some of the following factors before making a booking.

Location and Route

Most of the cruises start from Stadhouderskade 501, Amsterdam. If you are planning multiple cruise experiences, it may be a good idea to book an accommodation near the pier. What may also influence your choice of cruise is the route you wish to sail through. The canals are lined by examples of great architecture and the buildings with a forward tilt are a sight to behold.

Time of Day

The various cruise operators in the city offer customized canal cruise experiences throughout the day. In a day time cruise you can witness the architectural beauty of Amsterdam in great detail. For those looking to be dazzled by the night lamps and their captivating reflections in the flowing water channels, some time on the more soothing and romantic night-time cruise will be perfect.

Amsterdam’s canal cruises have something to suit every mood- from casual evenings with pizzas and burgers, to relaxing sails with cocktails and candle-lit dinners. If you are travelling with your young ones, you can opt for the canal cruise that have exclusive routines for children. All in all, the selection of experiences available on-board different canal cruises in Amsterdam is a promise of making memories worth remembering.

A visit to Amsterdam promises a lot of fun with a healthy dose of history. You can combine the two elements by opting for a combo that will take you around the city on a canal cruise. You will also have priority access to some of the city’s landmark museums and art galleries.

Other Factors

If you are big on experiencing the local culture, go over Amsterdam's festival calendar before planning a trip. One of the highlights is the Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival). It is a ten-day classical music festival that is held in the month of August and witnesses a jam-packed audience in the canals.

We know how daunting it can be to plan the perfect trip. To help you plan, we have here a list of the best and most preferred Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets.

These are the most popular and economical options, the no frills canal cruises that simply sifts through the canal, showcasing the best of Amsterdam. All you have to do is figure out the time of the day you'd like for the cruise and grab your Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets. Quick and easy, but oh so worth every penny!

Most Popular Amsterdam Canal Cruises

Evening canal cruise.

Amsterdam has a dreamlike quality to it which enhances as the sun starts to set and the ancient streets and waterways are illuminated by ornate lamps and the moonlight. You can be part of a magical evening by booking a place on one of the evening canal cruises.

In the 60 minutes you spend on this cruise, you will pass through the most famous landmarks of Amsterdam. The multi-lingual audio guide will tell you all about the city and its many structures. What’s more is that this cruise also sails through the red-light district of Amsterdam, an area where no day time cruise will take you. All this, while you enjoy a drink onboard.

1 Hour Day/Evening Canal Cruise

• 60-minute cruise on the famous canals of Amsterdam under the starry sky. • Cruise through the red light district, a location where no day cruises take you to. • Personal audio guide in 17 different languages.

Amsterdam City Canal Cruise

The Dutch capital is known for its many structures with ornate baroque façade. This cruise will take you back in history as you pass though as many as 1550 monumental buildings in the 75 minutes you spend onboard. The audio guide will fill you in on the history of the city and landmarks like the Golden Bend, Overhoeks and Music Building. This will be your chance to witness the city's progression from the 17th to 21st Century.

What sets this cruise apart is the treat it offers to its young passengers. Children onboard the cruise can listen to stories on their audio sets. The interactive experience includes everything from mission booklets to eye-patches.

• 75-minute cruise down the Amsterdam canals a UNESCO World Heritage Site. • Audio commentary in 21 languages. • Witness up to 1550 monumental buildings and edifices and take in the rich baroque works along the banks. • Special kids cruise with the children's ticket.

75 Mins Day Canal Cruise

Experience Amsterdam from the canals as you go on a 75-minute cruise covering the best parts of this historic city. Take in the Dutch Baroque architecture that spreads across the canal banks and feel the artistic expression radiate from this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witness not just the 17th-century renaissance age; but also the modern age 21st-century look of Amsterdam. From the Golden Bend to the Overhoeks, Music Building at the harbor to the VOC ship, this day cruise covers it all.

On this economically priced 75 minute boat tour, take in the Golden Age architecture of Amsterdam with audio commentary in 21 languages.

• 75-minute day cruise • Audio Commentary on board in 21 languages • Special kids cruise (audio & booklet) for children below the age of 12

Hop-On-Hop-Off Canal Cruise

The best way to see the sights in a city is to do it at your own pace. he Hop-on-hop-off Canal Cruise allows you that flexibility. You can buy a ticket that is valid for 24 hours or 48 hours. It gives you unlimited access to the sightseeing boats in the city. You can board these GPS and WiFi enabled cruises from 10 different stops in Amsterdam.

There are two routes defined for these cruises and the stops on both the green and blue line are different. You might want to check the timings of the cruise along with the stops you want to explore on a certain day.

• Choose either a 24h/48h hop-on hop-off boat ticket. • Unlimited access to the sightseeing boats in Amsterdam. • 10 Hop-on Hop-off stops allowing you complete maneuverability within the city. • Onboard GPS guide and Wifi.

Amsterdam Lights Festival: Water Color Cruise

Enjoy a delightful Water Color Cruise during the Amsterdam Lights Festival, the unique festival with artwork illuminated by light and displayed around the city. Comfortable seats, audio guide options in English and Dutch, and a chance to see some of the best artwork from around the world are what you can look forward to. With this year's theme being "The Medium is the Message", your cruise gives you the chance to get up close and personal and see all the lights from the best angle possible and to really see the medium in a whole new light.

Also take advantage of our limited discounted price offer, which is valid from November 29th, 2018 to January 20th, 2019! Grab your tickets early for discounts and don't miss out on the special cruise.

• A special cruise that passes alongside the sculptures and light artifacts of the Amsterdam Light Festival • Information onboard is available in English with an audio guide in Dutch & English • Special discounted offers valid till January 20th, 2019

Use promo code GOAMS and save €6 on your Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets

For those who like to devour a meal while floating on the canal in a glass boat, the Amsterdam Culinary Cruises are your best bet. These cruises allow you to dine and wine on the boat while you consume breathtaking views of Amsterdam City. Be warned, you won't know where to look - the food on your plate or sights outside!?!

Most Popular Amsterdam Culinary Cruises

Evening canal cruise with 4-course dinner and drinks.

Set sail on a luxury boat that will take you through the iconic canal network in the city under the glow of twilight. Amidst the fairytale-like illuminated buildings and in the comfort of the luxury boat, sink into a perfect evening. Enjoy plenty photo ops as you pass by the city's Enjoy views of the charming medieval bridges, 17th-century houseboats, and stately antique mansions all in their illuminated splendor. Settle in for an unforgettable 4 course dinner that’s been crafted by an award-winning Chef! Through your meal, you can sip on wine, beer, or soft drinks. This dinner cruise of 2-hours will take you to the most beautiful, most atmospheric and enchantingly illuminated places in Amsterdam. Running commentary is provided by the captain.

• Cruise on Amsterdam's historic canals under the illuminated beauty of the night for 2 hours • Enjoy an amazing 4-course meal with unlimited drinks from a fine selection of beverages • Immerse yourself into the captivating history and culture of Amsterdam with multilingual commentary onboard.

Dutch Wine & Cheese Candlelight Cruise

Europe is known for its vineyards and delicious cheese. The Dutch Wine and Cheese Cruise offers an experience to take in this culture and an unlimited supply of Holland’s brand of wine, beer and soft drinks, with platters of cheese and charcuterie for you to enjoy.

The spectacular sights that will decorate your window will seem more magical and a little less mysterious as a multi-lingual guide will take you through the history of the elaborate network of bridges and buildings. We promise that you will be transported to a dreamland as you take in the glittering night-time beauty of Amsterdam and its canal districts.

• Treat yourself to a romantic evening on a luxurious cruise boat on the illuminated canals. • Enjoy excellent local charcuterie and cheese, including global favorite Old Amsterdam. • Indulge in unlimited beer, wine, water or soft drinks throughout the entire tour to top off a great sightseeing experience of the magnificent Dutch capital.

Amsterdam Pizza Cruise

Sign up for a night of sightseeing and pizza as you step aboard a cozy boat. You can turn your gaze towards the wonderfully lit 17th-century canals or you can even take in the vintage houses that gracefully stand by the waters.

Enjoy unlimited drinks onboard the cruise as well as a special home-made brownie as you take in the sights. Be accompanied by expert guides who speak fluent Spanish, German and English who will help you dive into the captivating history and culture of Amsterdam.

• Cruise on the Amsterdam Canals and take in the mesmerizing views of the Amsterdam canals all around you on this delightful 90-minute cruise. • Indulge in one who pizza per person. • Enjoy Unlimited drinks onboard. • Multilingual guide.

Amsterdam Burger Cruise

This tour takes you through the iconic canals of the 'Venice of the North' fringed with elegant architecture. This two-hour cruise is one of the best ways to experience the spirit of Amsterdam. Your English or Spanish guide will keep you entertained with fascinating facts about the historical buildings that line either side of the canal.

Around thirty minutes into the cruise, your charcoal-grilled burger will be served. You can enjoy your burger with a cold glass of beer and some homemade brownies. The boat has a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that are completely free during the cruise. Experience Amsterdam in a whole new light on this serene cruise!

Amsterdam Combo Cruises

The money savers! If you're looking for combo deals that will save you a few euros and allows you to experience a more of Amsterdam for less, choose your pick from our combo cruises. You won't regret it one bit.

Most Popular Amsterdam Cruise Combos

City canal cruises & rijksmuseum direct entry.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amsterdam Canals are a breathtaking sight. Adorned by Baroque-style architecture on either side of the bank, witness more than 1550 monuments and edifices along the banks and discover the joys of the ‘Venice of the North.’ The Rijksmuseum is the largest art museum in Amsterdam featuring 8,000 objects on art and history from a collection of over a million objects. Walk through the halls adorned by works from genius artists and feel the emotions in their paintings reflect through these lifeless works.

With this sweet, super-saver combo, not only do you get to tour the heart of the Dutch capital via its world famous canals, but also visit the famed Rijksmuseum, both being two of the most best-selling and highly recommended attractions in Amsterdam.

• Enjoy the Dutch Capital from the Water on this 75-Minute Canal Cruise. • Experience the Rich Dutch History at the Rijksmuseum • Audio commentary device available in 21 lanugages

City Canal Cruise & Heineken Experience Direct Entry

Enjoy the best of Amsterdam with this special combo which combines the breathtaking cruise down the Amsterdam canal with an immersive experience at the brewery of the world-famous beer, Heineken. The scenic views on the waterfront are a sight to behold as you travel through time on the cruise which covers the best of Amsterdam - from the 17th century Golden Age to the modern era of Amsterdam. After the cruise, learn the secrets about the world-famous Pilsner brew which made it one of the three largest beer producers in the world. Walk into the brewery which closed in 1988 to cater to its fans and be a part of the Heineken club. A modern museum, the brewery still houses old photographs, decorations, and brass beer tanks and more!

• 75 minute Relaxing cruise along Amsterdam's canals. • Skip-the-line Heineken Experience ticket. • 90-minute self-guided tour of the Heineken brewery.

You can discover many more enchanting Amsterdam Canal Cruise deals at Headout and make your Amsterdam holiday one to remember.

Here are some handy tips that may help you make the most of our time in Amsterdam, if you are planning a canal cruise:

Book In Advance Amsterdam is much loved among tourists. And it may be possible that there are thousands of others flocking to get on a canal cruise right when you are there. To ensure that you have the best experience here, grab your Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets pre-hand and maybe pre- book your seats as well ( if possible). Consider Skip the Line Tickets & Combo Deals A visit to Amsterdam can be complete only when you visit at least the most famous of its museums. But the popularity of these art havens mean that the ticket counters are always flooded with people waiting in line. You can book a canal cruise combo in advance to gain priority access to museums like Rijksmuseum, the Heineken Museum and other landmarks like Anne Frank’s house. For Travel Flexibility, Try The Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise For those who like to travel at their own pace, the Hop-on-hop-off cruise would be the perfect choice. It gives you the flexibility of roaming about at your own pace. The ticket costs are quite reasonable for such an experience. Make Use Of The Audio Guides Most of the canal cruises are equipped with multi-lingual audio guides. These come in handy when you want to understand the sights and their history. It is a good idea to make use of this resource to experience Amsterdam and the city’s journey to what it is today. We hope that this guide on Amsterdam’s Canal Cruises will help you plan the perfect holiday. Have a gezellig time in the Dutch capital!

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Vishakha Gupta

An explorer at heart, Vishakha has travelled to and lived in some of the most offbeat places out there. A freelance writer and documentary filmmaker by profession, her words and camera go everywhere with her. There is not one day that goes by when she doesn’t add on to her knowledge of destinations as different as Dubai and Kyoto!

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How to spend a chic weekend in Amsterdam

A msterdam is a city that celebrates individuality, encourages quirkiness and delights in difference. It has a long history of riches and rebelliousness. The glory-days of the 17th century, the über-cosy 1800s, the counter-culture explosion of the 1960s – they’ve all left tidelines along Amsterdam’s canals: opulent gables, Rembrandt and Van Gogh, barrel-lined cafés, gardens of rare blooms, marijuana-selling 'coffeeshops', and Miss Marple bicycles.

Now Amsterdam is sweeping into a new Golden Age, making a fresh mark with galleries, sharp shops, award-winning restaurants and hipster cafés. Bristles of audacious architecture have shot up round the city edges but the cobweb of gable-lined canals is still at its heart, with funky stores in the criss-crossing alleys of Negen Straatjes, new galleries to the west in the Jordaan, world-class museums and chic boutiques south around Museumplein, a market and further foodie paradise in De Pijp, and hot new quarters opening up all the time.

And here are our other Amsterdam guides, providing inspiration for hotels , restaurants , shopping , bars & cafés , attractions and free things to do  (plus the best hotels near Amsterdam airport ).

In this guide

How to spend your weekend, insider tips.

When should I visit Amsterdam?

Where to stay in Amsterdam

What to bring home

Essential information: what to know before you go

Begin at Centraal Station with a kick-start coffee (or simply to admire the décor) at Café 1e Klas , the period-perfect 1880s former first-class waiting room tucked away on Platform 2b.

Then depart on a Stromma canal cruise  in a glass-topped boat from one of the moorings across from the station – not the tourist-trap it sounds, but a quick way to feel a sense of place, get the perfect angle on the city’s decorative gables and watch Amsterdam coming to life.

If you have time to spare before the next boat, take a wander along Brouwersgracht west of the station. The pretty bridges mean it is justifiably Amsterdam’s most photographed canal. When the cruise is over, grab a quick lunch at the café atop OBA , the public library near Centraal Station where there’s a rooftop terrace with a spectacular view of both the old and new parts of the city.

Back on the ground, wander through the Oostelijke Havengebied (Eastern Docklands) to take in some of Amsterdam’s newest architecture, then down Oudezijds Voorburgwal, one of the oldest parts of town, to the ancient parish church  Oude Kerk , where edge-pushing contemporary art exhibitions vie with centuries-old treasures for your attention.

Almost next door, Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder  is a beautifully restored 17th-century canal house, with a surprise when you reach the top via narrow wooden stairs.

Back outside, edge through a crowded corner of the red light district to De Waag, the medieval city weigh-house on Nieuwmarkt, then away from the hurly-burly along Recht Boomsloot and Krom Boomsloot – quiet canals that will take you to browse through Amsterdam’s famed flea market on Waterlooplein . Look out for antique bric-a-brac (brass bowls, old porcelain), bicycle parts, second-hand leather coats, old jewellery, silk scarves, Peruvian knitwear, and vinyl aplenty.

Head back to Hanneke’s Boom , a shack-like café with a cosy open hearth on an odd island in the Eastern Docklands, for drinks, dinner and maybe music and dancing later.

Or take a rest at your hotel, freshen up, put on the glad rags and prepare to be wowed by one of the best chefs in town at Spectrum . Sidney Schutte cooks with finesse and flair, giving the odd surprising twist to a local ingredient – such as crispy tulip bulbs, or a white asparagus dessert.

Today is the day for the big three museums on Museumplein. It’s an early start at the Rijksmuseum  to avoid the crowds – the best time to arrive is 9.15am, after the initial surge when it opens at 9am. Take in the premier Old Masters in the Gallery of Honour, but also look out for the 18th-century dolls’ houses (not toys, but show-off pieces for rich merchants’ wives) and visit the exquisitely selected Asian collection in the basement. Then time for a break.

It’s a 10-minute walk to the hip foodie and café district of De Pijp, and the Albert Cuyp Market  (Albert Cuypstraat) for hot sticky stroopwafels, colourful fabrics, bargain clothes and all manner of delectable goodies to take home. The streets leading off it are replete with delis and cafés. Try Little Collins  for a kimchi toastie, or some other yummy lunch from the inspired Aussie-Dutch owner-chefs.

Head back to Museumplein and the Van Gogh Museum (book an afternoon slot online in advance).  Leave time not only to immerse yourself in the colours of the tragic artist's paintings, but to explore his delicate drawings, and the letters which reveal so much about the man. Then, if you’re not museumed-out, drop in next door to the  Stedelijk Museum  to be brought right up to date with the very latest in international art and design.

Alternatively, head back towards the centre through the Spiegekwartier arts and antiques district to enjoy one of Amsterdam’s greatest delights, a walk through the Grachtengordel district; the concentric rings of grand canals laid out in the 17th century are here.

The best view? The point where Prinsengracht and Reguliersgracht meet. Zigzag your way towards the Negen Straatjes to shop in the alleys of hip and quirky shops that criss-cross the main canals, and then west to the galleries and cafés of the Jordaan.

Dinner is at Koevoet , a café that dates back to pre-gentrified Jordaan days but where – amid the dark wood panelling, Tiffany lampshades and assorted bric-a-brac of a traditional Amsterdam 'brown café' – a wildly talented Sicilian family provides homemade pastas and sausages and other flavours of southern Italy.

Then a nightcap at an old-fashioned Jordaan neighbourhood café: De Tuin . There are ten beers on tap, more bottled, and the wine is palatable. Try a beer from Oedipus, or one of the other Amsterdam craft breweries.

Attractions

Book online for the Van Gogh Museum , and visit after 4pm to get a less crowded view of the famous paintings. An imaginative hanging (with personal touches such as family photos) brings you within touching distance of the man, and how he worked.

Buy a Museumkaart from the major museums and you can get free entry to museums across the Netherlands for a whole year. They cost €75 (£64.50), and are best purchased from quieter establishments, such as the Allard Pierson museum .

Neighbourhood watch

Pick up high fashion and curious gifts from the specialist shops, flagship boutiques and concept stores in the Negen Straatjes. There’s Laura Dols for glamour vintage (especially 1950s), and sleek, sturdy, stylish and miraculously capacious bags from Dutch designer Hester van Eeghen .

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam has a garden courtyard full of secluded nooks. It is a quiet retreat in a hectic part of town. There's also an excellent restaurant and staff are relaxed, gracious and quietly efficient.

Did you know?

Many canal-houses have spectacular back gardens, hidden from public view. Some hotels and canal-house museums afford you a glimpse, such as the Museum Van Loon or Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam .

Popular songs have it that spring’s the time to come tulip-plucking, but really any season in Amsterdam has its allure.

At the slightest hint of good weather the chairs and tables go out at pavement cafés. On the downside, expect rain or Tupperware-grey skies any time of year – but then there’s more than enough on the museum front to keep you entertained indoors. Summer can be a heady time of long evenings on outdoor terraces, autumn for bracing walks along the canals, winter ideal for snuggling down with good Dutch beer in a cosy, wood-panelled café.

Where to stay

Luxury living.

Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam is a stand-alone hotel that stretches through 25 houses, between two canals. Many rooms have fine views, and all come with a potted history of whichever canal house you find yourself in. Modern art from the hotel’s collection finds its way into the rooms, too. 

From £288 (€335) per night.

Boutique bolthole

The Craftsmen , in a beautiful 17th-century building on a prime canal-side spot, has been ingeniously (at times zanily) decorated with upcycled tools, trappings and products of Amsterdam craftworkers through the centuries. It combines designer flair with a low-key, privately run ambience.

From £155 (€180) per night.

Budget beauty

The former offices of De Volkskrant newspaper have been given vibrant and stylish new life as  Volkshotel , an affordable hotel with weekend DJs, rooftop hot tubs and even artists-in-residence. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, seeming more spacious than they really are. A rooftop bar-restaurant offers adventurous new-Dutch cuisine.

From £68 (€79) per night.

Know before you go

Essential contacts.

• Embassy: British Embassy (00 31 70 427 0427), Lange Voorhout 10, 2514 ED, The Hague
• Emergency services: dial 112. For non-emergency police matters dial 0900 8844
• Tourist office and information:  The Iam sterdam tourist information centre ( iamsterdam.com ) is inside Centraal Station. Open daily, 10am-7pm. There is a second office in the Arrivals Hall 2 of Schiphol Airport, open daily 7am to 10pm.
• Currency: Euro. Few establishments will accept notes of over €50, and prices are rounded off to the nearest 5c (1c and 2c coins are not used in the Netherlands).
• Time: +1 hour
• Travel times:  flying time from London to Amsterdam is just over an hour. A direct Eurostar train takes just under four hours; trains with a change in Brussels take about six hours.

Local laws and etiquette

• It’s not true that “anything goes” in Amsterdam. Public drunkenness, rowdiness, and smoking dope in the street meet with severe – if silent – local disapproval.

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