amsterdam canal cruise open boat

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Tripadvisor’s #1 best cruise in the world!

Book a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

Book your luxury canal cruise through Amsterdam directly!

Cancellations are free

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

Personal canal cruise

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

Service oriented

We are available 24/7 to answer any questions that you may have. Contact us via phone, e-mail and/or WhatsApp.

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 Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Departure from the Anne Frank House

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

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 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

Public tour 90 Minutes All Inclusive Canal Cruise

Departure from Central Station or Rijksmuseum

• Duration: 1,5 hour
• Small group and fun skipper
• Typical Dutch bites and unlimited drinks

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. Learn about Amsterdam’s rich trading history, culture, and iconic landmarks. 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

How many of those people are vegetarian?

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

Would you like to request a quote?

Does this price indication appeal to you? Fill in the information below and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Price estimate

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

• March 21 until May 12 2024
• 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!"

Flagship Amsterdam

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Open Boat Tour Amsterdam

Discover the canals on an electric boat.

• The captain is your guide
• Discover the small, picturesque canals
• Free cancellation until 24 hours before departure

About this tour

Cruise along with our Open Boat Tour Amsterdam! The skipper is your guide and takes you to the smallest canals of Amsterdam which regular boats can’t go through. Because it is an open boat, it is ideal for taking pictures

Select & book

Open boat tour - damrak pier 6.

Book your 60-minute cruise from Damrak. Sail on an electric sloop through the Amsterdam canals and Het IJ.

Departure point : Stromma - Damrak, Pier 6 – see map above Highlights : many canal houses, the Skinny Bridge, and Het IJ. Good to know : The Damrak location has a large shop with an extensive range of snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Easy to reach from Dam square

Open Boat Tour - Rijksmuseum

Book your 60-minute cruise from the famous Rijksmuseum. Sail on an electric sloop through the canals of Amsterdam.

Departure point : Stromma Rijksmuseum – zie map above

Highlights: Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk, Carré and the Amstel.

Good to know: This location is ideal if you want to combine your cruise with a vistit to Moco, Stedelijk-, Van Gogh Museum - & Rijksmuseum.

Open Boat Tour - Stromma Leidseplein

Book your 60-minute cruise from Leidseplein. Sail on an electric sloop through the canals of Amsterdam.

Departure point : Stromma Leidseplein – see map above

Highlights:  Unesco world heritage, the Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk, Carré and the Amstel.

Good to know: This location is ideal if you want to combine your cruise with a visit to the Leidseplein, want to shop or visit the casino.

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The best view of Amsterdam, you ask? There’s only one answer: from an open boat tour Amsterdam! Cruise the canals in one of our electric, thus sustainable, open boats. The captain, who’s your personal guide, will show you exactly why a part of the city center is UNESCO world heritage. Book your tickets online here today!

Join a real Amsterdam boat adventure on an open boat tour

Our professional skippers, with their endless knowledge and anecdotes about the city, make the open boat tours a truly unique and personal experience. Tell the captain what you want to see, and he or she knows just where to take you. From famous movie locations, canal houses from the Dutch Golden Age to the most beautiful and less discovered canals. This boat adventure is sure to show you unexpected sights!

Experience the excitement of an open boat tour in Amsterdam, where refreshing breezes and beautiful views come together for an adventurous journey along the picturesque waterways. Explore the beauty of the surroundings and let every moment on the open boat ride become an experience that will stay with you.

Reasons why to book a open boat canal tour in Amsterdam

• Our Amsterdam open boat tours take you to the canals the regular canal tours can’t access. Thanks to the shape, the boat is not only easy to maneuver but also very cozy.
• A boat tour Amsterdam during a warm summer’s day or evening will be pleasing to everyone and we make sure you’re just as comfortable during the darker winter months as well.
• In case of rain, we'll make sure you're still cruising the canals of Amsterdam in style - and stay dry at the same time. We've got you covered!

Kids’ special adventure

We’d love to welcome all the families back on board. All kids can receive a colouring page.

Sustainable Boat Tour Amsterdam

We love Amsterdam and think it’s very important to preserve the splendor of this precious city. That’s why all our open boats are equipped with electric engines. This way you’re ensured of the most sustainable and green Amsterdam open boat canal tour and are many future generations also able to enjoy the city, too.

Want a private tour?

Did you know you’re also able to rent our open boats for a private cruise (with a group up to twelve people) through the city? Check out the possibilities!

Have fun on your Open Boat Tour in Amsterdam!

Looking for other options? Check Amsterdam Canal Tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Haven't found the answer to your question yet? Check out the FAQ .

Can I bring my dog on board?

In principle, dogs are not allowed on board

Can I take a stroller on board?

A stroller can be taken on board depending on the available space. For safety reasons, the aisle must be kept clear.

Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, our boats are not accessible for wheelchairs. There are always three steps to be taken to board, and many gangways are accessible by stairs. If the wheelchair can be folded and you can climb a few steps, it is possible to board. For safety reasons, the aisle must be kept clear. The wheelchair cannot be taken on board every boat.

Is there a toilet on board?

No, there is no toilet on the boat.

Is it necessary to make a reservation?

It is not mandatory to make a reservation, but it is recommended due to limited capacity.

Can I buy snacks and drinks on board?

No, You can buy snacks, drinks and souvenirs in our shop before you get on board of the ship.

What if it rains?

If it rains, we'll ensure that you sail through the canals of Amsterdam in style - while staying dry. We've got you covered!

Departure time and locations Canal Open Boats Amsterdam

Two points of departure in the Amsterdam city centre:

- Stromma Damrak, Pier 6 - Stromma Rijksmuseum

- Stromma Leidseplein

Depending on the weather opening days and times may vary.

Rent a private Open Boat

Rent a private boat in Amsterdam for you and your friends including an experienced skipper. Ideal for a birthday, staff outing, a drink or just because you feel like a cozy cruise with friends. Cruise through the famous canals of Amsterdam, on our sustainable electric sloop, while enjoying a drink with your friends. Read more about our VIP Open Boat and book your private tour.

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1-hour boat tour on the canals

Pizza Cruise Amsterdam

Dinner cruise with pizza & drinks included

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Discover Volendam, Edam & Zaanse Schans and a Canal Cruise

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© 2024 Stromma Nederland B.V. | Keizersgracht 270, 1016 EV Amsterdam | Stromma Nederland is part of Stromma Group

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.

We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!

Instantly Book Your Private Boat

Private Boat – Lucy

Private, Romantic & Luxurious

Classic Boat – Schollevaar

Beautifully renovated salon boat from 1912

Small Open Boat – Geertje

Classic luxury sloep perfect for smaller groups

The Flagship – Pure Spirit

Exceptional luxury on our largest boat

Luxury Boat – Stan Huygens

The super yacht of the canals

Instantly Book Your Small Group Tour Tickets

Good Morning Amsterdam Cruise

Morning Amsterdam Canal Cruise 75 min inc. welcome drink

Read what our guests say about us

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 Cruise

Enjoy a lavish boat brunch cruise with optional mimosas

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 .

Previous clients

Send us a message.

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
• Amsterdam Tours
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• Sightseeing Cruises
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• Evening Cruises
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• Canal Cruise Combos
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• Flagship Amsterdam
• Harbor Cruises
• Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises
• Keukenhof Gardens Tickets
• Amsterdam Heineken Experience Tickets
• Johan Cruijff Arena
• Madame Tussauds Amsterdam Museum Tickets
• Anne Frank Tours
• WONDR Experience Tickets
• Moco Museum Amsterdam
• AMAZE Amsterdam
• NEMO Science Museum Tickets
• Boom Chicago Tickets
• Amsterdam Dungeon Tickets
• Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
• Van Gogh Museum Tickets
• Rijksmuseum Tickets
• National Maritime Museum Tickets
• Body Worlds Amsterdam Tickets
• Stedelijk Museum Tickets
• Walking Tours
• Guided Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Bikes & Segway
• Travel Guide

Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets & Tours

Select Your Experience

Amsterdam Canal Sightseeing Cruise

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Fall in love with Amsterdam with this glass-roofed boat cruise sailing past iconic landmarks of the city.
• Get to know more about every attraction you see during the cruise via the audio guide. It’s available in 19 languages!
• Catch sight of popular landmarks like the Westerkerk church, Nine Streets, and Skinny Bridge, and admire the canal's Baroque architecture.
• You can board the cruise from various boarding points like Central Station, Hard Rock Cafe and more, choose yours in the next step.
• 1-hour Amsterdam Canal cruise
• Audio guide in Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian
• Facilities: free Wi-Fi and toilets.

This is Holland Pier

• 2-min walk from A'DAM Lookout and Eye Film Museum

Central Station

• 2-min walk away from Basilica of St Nicholas and Park Plaza Victoria

Heineken Experience Pier

• 1-min walk from Heineken Experience and Amsterdam, Weteringcircuit

Hard Rock Cafe

• 1-min walk from Rembrandts Amsterdam Experience

Anne Frank House Pier

• 2-min walk from Anne Frank House and Anne Frank Monument

Click here for a detailed map of the boarding points.

• Tip: Notice small gardens and green spaces along the canals. These hidden oases add to the city's charm and provide a refreshing touch of nature amidst the urban setting!

• Amsterdam Canal Evening Sightseeing Cruise
• Board your cruise and explore the canals of Amsterdam in the warm glow of the city illuminated at night.
• You will be welcomed onboard the comfortable boat by the cruise staff and can kick off your journey by ordering a cold drink.
• As you explore the UNESCO-listed canal belt, listen to the onboard audio guide with your free headphones, available in up to 21 different languages.
• The cruise will also drift past the canals that run through the district where most day cruises do not go - the infamous De Wallen or De Walletjes.
• Upgrade your cruise to the luxury boat for cozy blankets and live guides. Depart from Central Station or Anne Frank House Pier for an enhanced experience.
• 1-hour or 90-min canal cruise
• Evening cruise with bar service
• Multilingual audio guide in 21 languages
• Snackbox (optional)
• 1-hour luxury boat cruise from Central Station/Anne Frank House Pier (optional)

Central Station Pier

Hard rock cafe pier.

Click here for the detailed map of the boarding points.

• Tip: Amsterdam is known for its vibrant street art scene. As you cruise along the canals, keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti artwork adorning the walls near the water.
• The audio guide is available in the following languages: English, French, Russian, Spanish, German, Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Arabic, Japanese, Turkish, Thai, Polish, Czech, Croatian, Indonesian, Cantonese, Swedish, Korean, and Hindi.

• Amsterdam Canal Open Boat Cruise with Optional Wine & Cheese
• Catch unobstructed views of the Amsterdam skyline on this open-boat cruise as you learn intriguing facts about the city from your guide!
• This cruise takes you past landmarks like Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), one of the most beautiful bridges in Amsterdam.
• Choose your boarding point, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, or Central Station, from where an open boat will you away from the city crowds.
• Wait there’s more! You can choose to elevate your cruising experience by choosing the ticket option with unlimited drinks and cheese.
• Live guide and local skipper
• 60-minute canal cruise
• Cheese delights (optional)
• Unlimited drinks: beer, wine, and soft drinks (optional)
• Drinks (see the menu here )

Rijksmuseum Pier

• 2-min walk fromRijksmuseum
• Tip: Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty of Amsterdam's canals. You'll have stunning photo opportunities throughout the cruise!
• The cruise is suitable for pram/stroller users.
• Buggy is available on prior request.
• Pets are allowed.

• Amsterdam Canal Dinner Cruise
• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Date idea: an evening dinner cruise through the canals of Amsterdam. You get just that with this ticket!
• Enjoy a world-class 4-course dinner prepared by gourmet chef Frans Kelders, with vegetarian, meat and fish options.
• It gets dreamier than this, you also get drinks of your choice, from beer, wine and soft drinks, to make the experience even better.
• 2-hour evening cruise
• 4-course dinner (menu here )
• Complimentary drinks: beer, wine, soft drinks
• Hotel transfers

LOVERS Canal Cruises Amsterdam

• 5-min walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station
• The cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Amsterdam Canal Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise

• This post-sunset cruise on a luxury boat brings to life the city of Amsterdam, with brightly lit with all its bridges brightly illuminated.
• Your experienced English-speaking skipper and guide will tell you all about the city’s culture and fun places you can visit!
• Starting from the Anne Frank House, you’ll explore the stylish Jordaan neighborhood, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), and the Golden Bend.
• To make things even more convenient, you can choose from 3 boarding points, Red Light District, Central Station Pier, or Anne Frank House Pier.
• 1-hour canal cruise on a luxury boat
• Local and experienced skipper and English-speaking guide
• Blankets available
• Departure from Red Light District/Central Station Pier/Anne Frank House Pier (as per option selected)
• Meal and drinks inclusions

Red Light District

• 2-min walk from Royal Palace Amsterdam
• Tip: If you need recommendations on how to explore more of the city, feel free to ask your guide!
• Pets are allowed onboard.
• Suitable for pram/stroller users.

Combo: Van Gogh Museum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets

• Get a healthy dose of Dutch history and art thanks to this pocket-friendly combo ticket with a canal cruise and an entry ticket to the Van Gogh Museum.
• Set sail on a 75-min cruise through Amsterdam's canals, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, aboard a Blue Boat Company vessel.
• Float past top Amsterdam attractions such as the Anne Frank House and City Hall while enjoying your snack box by upgrading your ticket.
• Enjoy entry to the Van Gogh Museum, where you can admire over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 letters from the Dutch artist.
• Admire the famous works of Van Gogh's contemporaries such as Monet and Gauguin.
• 75-minute canal cruise
• Timed entry to the Van Gogh Museum
• Van Gogh entrance + 75-min canal cruise with snackbox (optional)

Van Gogh Museum

• Tip: Pay attention to the chronological arrangement of the artwork. The museum showcases Van Gogh's evolution as an artist, from his early dark and somber works to his vibrant and expressive later pieces.
• Your booked time slot will be your entrance time to the Van Gogh Museum.

Canal Cruise

• Tip: As you cruise through different neighborhoods, be on the lookout for street art and colorful murals adorning buildings and walls.
• The voucher for your canal cruise is an 'OPEN TICKET', which means that no time slot has been allocated and you can board any next available boat at the dock.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

• Combo: Rijksmuseum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets
• Tick off two major to-dos from your Amsterdam wishlist while saving quite a bit: The Rijksmuseum and a 60-min city canal cruise.
• Skip the lines and explore Rijksmuseum at your pace, admiring Dutch masterpieces including Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait and Vermeer’s Milkmaid .
• Set off on an Amstel River cruise, learning all about the iconic stops along the way with a multilingual audio guide.
• Upgrade your tickets to add some flavor to your adventure: a 75-min cruise with a snack box containing yummy bites and a drink.
• 60-min or 75-min canal cruise
• Entry to Rijksmuseum
• Audio guide in English, French, German, Hebrew, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian
• Snack box (optional)
• Free kids’ cruise and audio story with every kids’ ticket (optional)
• Earphones, if needed (optional)
• Entry to Vermeer Exhibition
• Multimedia museum tour (available for purchase at the museum for €5)

Rijksmuseum

• You need to enter the Rijksmuseum at the selected time slot, but you can stay as long as you like.
• The museum is wheelchair accessible. You can also borrow a wheelchair, rollator, pushchair, walking cane, or foldable museum stool from them.
• Guide dogs are welcome to join you at the museum and the cruise.
• There is no time slot allocated for the cruise. For exact redemption information, please follow the instructions on your voucher.

Combo: Heineken Experience Direct Entry + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets

• This ticket is a brilliant combination of 2 truly Dutch experiences! Save time and money with this combo with a canal cruise and entry to the Heineken Brewery.
• Enjoy a 75-min cruise along Venice of the North and learn more about this UNESCO World Heritage site with an audio guide available in 14 languages.
• You can choose to upgrade your cruise to include a snackbox, which you'll receive before boarding the cruise.
• The ticket also gives you entry into the Heineken Experience; go on a 90-min self-guided tour of the gigantic brewery.
• Find out about the ins and outs of this massive beer producer while sipping on 2 complimentary drinks!
• 75-minute cruise down the Amsterdam Canal
• Skip-the-line Heineken Experience ticket
• 90-minute self-guided tour of the Heineken brewery
• A snackbox containing chips, popcorn, cheese biscuits, salted peanuts, and a soft drink of your choice (optional)
• Wheelchairs will be provided at the Heineken Experience once a reimbursable €100 fee is deposited.
• The cruise is also wheelchair accessible.

Amsterdam Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

• Unlimited drinks? You saw that right! Enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and soda on a cruise through the world-renowned canals of Amsterdam.
• A professional skipper and host will let you in on the city's secrets, making this experience both fun and informative.
• This cruise is an ideal choice to spend quality time with friends and family and witness city landmarks like Seven Bridges and the Dancing Houses.
• Starting at the Red Light District, the cruise takes you past the NEMO Science Museum, The VOC Ship, and many more iconic spots.
• Choose from the ticket options for your preferred type of boat, and upgrade to include a nightclub entry ticket!
• Amsterdam canal cruise
• Covered boat/luxury boat (as per option selected)
• 2 or unlimited drinks: beer, wine and soda (as per option selected)
• Professional skipper and local host
• Night club entry (optional)
• Tip: Keep a look out for the dancing houses, locally known as De Dansende Huizen. Due to the soft clay soil, these houses are slightly tilted, giving them a quaint appearance.
• Only guests aged 18 and above are allowed to drink.
• Outside food and drinks are allowed.

I Amsterdam City Card: 70+ Attractions

• Explore Amsterdam seamlessly with this all-inclusive Amsterdam city card and gain access to over 70 museums and attractions.
• The card offers a flexible validity of 24-hr, 48-hr, 72-hr, 96-hr, or 120-hr to choose from.
• Enjoy free entrance to the Rijksmuseum, a national museum dedicated to Dutch arts and history, H'ART, Moco Museum, and more!
• Enjoy 25% discounts at select cafes & attractions such as the Heineken Experience along with a 24-hour bicycle rental.
• Navigate the city with unlimited free access to Amsterdam’s efficient public transport system (GVB), including trams and buses.
• Admire the city’s iconic architecture, picturesque bridges, and waterfront views during a blissful 1-hour canal cruise.
• 24/48/72/96/120-hour validity
• Access to attractions: Heineken Experience, Artis Royal Zoo, Canal Cruise & more
• Access to outdoor activities: City Canal Cruise Blue Boat Company, Klimbos Fun Forest, Amsterdam Walking tour & more
• Unlimited use of GVB public transport (bus, tram & metro)
• Giveaways & discounts on concerts, theatres, rentals & more
• Tip: Amsterdam is full of interesting things to buy as souvenirs for friends back home but don’t miss out on buying wooden clogs from Zaanse Schans, or blue and white pottery from Delft.
• Note: By booking this City Card you save big as buying tickets to these attractions separately would cost you a lot.
• Order your City Card online.
• Transport to/from the Schipol airport is not included in this pass.
• I amsterdam City Card is now a digital product accessible via the City Card app.
• Activate your card using the instructions on your post-booking voucher. You choose when to activate your City Card. The card is activated when you first use it.
• Use your card to visit City Card locations, simply show your card on your phone at the entrance. Scan your card when entering any bus, tram, or metro.
• Click here to view the map.

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:

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 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: 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)
• 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. 

Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise (1+ hr)

Open boat canal cruise: how does that work.

More and more traditional canal tours are now offered on large open-air boats. Some of these are completely renovated lifeboats, while others have been newly built for this purpose. Compared to standard canal cruises on large tour boats, the seating arrangements on these open-air boats are less rigid. Additionally, the view is better than from a large tour boat with a roof. And with a local guide on board, the sightseeing experience becomes more personalized.

For comparing canal cruises on open-air boats, please refer to the overview below, which includes brief profiles of all individual companies, along with pictures of their boats.

Open Boat Canal Cruise – the Pros

• Efficient: good impression in a short time
• With skipper and guide
• Drinks on board

Open Boat Canal Cruise – the Cons

• More expensive than a large tour boat
• Dependent on the season
• No fun in the rain

Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruises

Open Boat Tour with Local Guide & Bar by Mokumboot (from Central Station)

This open boat tour combines the best of the Amsterdam canals with the highlights of the Amstel River. Grab some pillows and relax on this eco-friendly electric boat. Order a drink from the bar and listen to the stories told by the knowledgeable local guide. Mokumboot boasts outstanding reviews on Google and Tripadvisor, provides blankets and ponchos if needed, and offers very flexible conditions (reschedule or cancel up to 2 hours in advance).

Flagship Open Boat Tour from Rijksmuseum

This one-hour canal tour on Flagship’s open boat is very popular and highly rated. The location is close to the Museum Quarter, Vondelpark and Leidseplein. The view from the open boat is always good, the cushions are comfortable, and the guides are extremely nice and informative. There is a bar on board where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Truly relaxing and comfortable!

Flagship Open Boat Tour from Central Station

Flagship also offers trips with their open boats directly from Central Station. With live commentary and a bar on board, this one-hour tour is both relaxing and informative. From the open boat, you have a great view of all the highlights on your way, including the UNESCO area and the Skinny Bridge over the Amstel river. Highly recommended!

Stromma Open Boat Tour

The Stromma Open Boat Tour departs near Central Station and takes 75 minutes. On top of the main canals it also includes some smaller canals. The skipper is your guide, providing interesting information about the Amsterdam canals in English. 

Boat Amsterdam

Boat Amsterdam offers relaxed 70 minutes open boat tours from its central location in front of the Amsterdam Hermitage. Free drinks and a guide on board are included.

Friendship Open Boat Canal Cruises

Friendship Amsterdam offers canal tours in a relaxed atmosphere on four distinctive open boats. Each boat can take up to approximately 50 people. The location of Friendship stands out: their boat tours start and end in the Red Light District .

Blue Sky Boat Canal Cruises

The Blue Sky Boat is owned by Blue Boat Company. This is a refurbished lifeboat that goes out several times a day during summer. The 75 minute tour starts and ends at their dock near Leidseplein, Museum Quarter and Vondelpark .

Those Dam Boat Guys Open Boat Tours

Those Damn Boat Guys are the most unconventional and slightly rebellious canal tour company. They offer an entertaining, humorous and relatively long (90 minutes) boat tour that starts and ends near the Anne Frank House. Open boats in summer, covered in winter.

Lovers Small Boat Cruise

Flagship Open Boat Tour from Anne Frank House

Flagship’s open canal boats also depart from the Anne Frank House. From the open boat, you have a beautiful view of the canals in the city center. Along the way, the guide shares funny and informative tidbits. You can order your favorite drink and a snack at the onboard bar. So sit back, relax and enjoy!

Amsterdam Boat Adventures

The best small open boat tours in amsterdam , we cruise where the big boats can’t go, the best canal boat tours in amsterdam.

We cruise where the big boats can’t go.

Join our Amsterdam boat tours and escape the hectic city street life, while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere on the best boat tour in Amsterdam. We offer shared or private boat tours on a small modern open boat.

Whether you’re a tourist visiting for the first time or a local looking for a new adventure, Amsterdam Boat Adventures is the perfect way to discover Amsterdam’s charm and beauty.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see and experience Amsterdam from this unique and magnificent view.

Choose your Amsterdam boat tour

• Bestseller!
• Hour Glass 90 min

Amsterdam Old City Center Boat Tour

Discover Amsterdam’s dazzling canals and the beautiful city center.  On this shared boat tour we cruise through the oldest part of Amsterdam, better known as the Red light district and we’ll also explore the famous Seven Bridges Canal. Join our shared boat cruise on a modern, small open boat.

• Calendar March - November

Amsterdam Evening Boat Tour

Experience the unique vibe of Amsterdam as the day comes to an end and the magic of the evening takes over. On this shared evening canal cruise, we explore the Golden age UNESCO canal belt and the smaller canals in the charming Jordaan district.

• Calendar March through November

Exclusive Private Amsterdam Canal Belt Discovery Cruise

Enjoy a fantastic private open boat tour and intimate adventure of Amsterdam’s stunning canals. On this boat tour we’ll discover the famous UNESCO heritage canal belt and the delightful small canals in the Jordaan district.

Private Amsterdam Old City Center Boat Tour

Enjoy an exclusive open boat tour as we take you on an amazing cruise through the oldest parts of Amsterdam. We’ll tell you all about the city’s rich history. On this private canal cruise, you’ll experience some of the oldest canals, the Red Light and the beautiful Seven Bridges Canal.

About our Amsterdam Boat Tours

Amsterdam is a spectacular city and famous for its amazing canal network with a stunning 168 canals, beautiful bridges, old locks and thousands of houseboats. The canals truly define Amsterdam’s unique landscape and provide a stunning backdrop to the city’s historical centre. One of the best ways to experience this amazing city and its wonderful sights is of course from the water while cruising down the beautiful canals.

We offer Amsterdam boat tours and canal cruises on a modern, small open boat. Guaranteed small groups as we take a max of 12 guests per tour. The boat is quiet due to it’s eco friendly electric engine, which lets us silently glide through the canals. We also have a fridge on board, well stocked with water, soft drinks, beer and wine. Blankets are available to keep you cozy and warm when it turns cooler.

We love our city and are passionate about explaining the growth of Amsterdam and its history.

We hope to welcome you on board on one of our amazing guided Amsterdam boat tours.

Choose between shared or private Amsterdam Boat Tours

Shared boat tours.

Learn More »

Private Boat Tours

Guest reviews.

Captain Attila is a great guide. He is able to share his extensive knowledge of Amsterdam's history, canals, buildings and personalities in such an engaging, interesting and fun way for all the family. My wife, three sons and I had such a great time - so thank you Attila! The boat is also ideal - electric and comfortable, so you can get up close and into the really interesting and narrower canals too. My family and I strongly recommend Attila and Amsterdam Boat Adventures over the bigger, less personal (and potentially cheaper) boats that ply the canals, where bored faces stare out of the windows at you.

This was an excellent boat ride. We did the evening tour. There were only ten of us on the boat and our guide was wonderful. It was really relaxing and definitely the best boat ride we took of all the ones we did in Europe. I HIGHLY recommend this company.

Jamie was a fantastic captain and guide, steering us safely through the canals. We were a party of 4 plus our little dog and were joined by 7 other people,. The boat is quiet and very comfortable, with blankets available if you’re feeling chilly. Drinks are available at a very reasonable price too. The information and stories we heard from Captain Jamie were great, just the right amount of information, not one bit boring and really interesting and the time just flew by! I can highly recommend this boat tour to everyone!!

We had last visited Amsterdam in 2019 and twice greatly enjoyed our small tours through the canals with Jamie. When we returned this June I made it a priority to see if ABA was still in business and was happy to see that they are. The boat is small but comfortable, and the tour is a friendly, informative, funny, and charming view of Amsterdam through its canals. Capt. Jamie and crew are excellent and safe boaters. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are available on board at very affordable prices. The embarkation point is around the corner from the Hermitage Museum (where other, larger boat tours depart). ABA is the perfect size (maximum 12) and vibe for a relaxing but educational slow cruise, day or sunset. Very highly recommend it!

Chill, a small group, a comfortable boat and a great captain. We learned some interesting history, navigated some tight hidden canals you'd never see from the street or in a large tour boat, and had a great time with those aboard. Captain Callum answered our questions and really provided a cool atmosphere. There are drinks on board if you want them. It was a really friendly experience.

We had a wonderful time with captain Bente. She was very knowledgeable and friendly, and our family party of twelve - six adults and six kids aged from 17 to 1 had a wonderful time exploring the canals. You can bring your own snacks and drinks, the boat was very comfortable and clean, and the price reasonable. Highly recommend!

Best boat cruise in Amsterdam. This is the cruise to take if you want a small group and to have a relaxing time. It’s not a party boat. Jamie was such a great host. He helped to unlock and appreciate the history of Amsterdam and its many canals. Highly recommend!

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Interested in a private cruise? Book here

• ALL DRINKS INCLUDED

OPEN BOAT CRUISE All drinks included

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 60 min.
• Users Capacity: 35 passengers
• Ticket Tour: Live Guided

Discover Amsterdam through its most prestigious canals

Experience the city on an unforgettable Amsterdam canal cruise! If you’re looking for a fun way to get around without renting a bike or walking through the city, try sightseeing from Amsterdam’s magnificent canals on board our Premium Cruise.

This cruise is a live guided Amsterdam canal tour that shows you all the most famous city sights while an experienced guide narrates interesting information about the city for your enjoyment. Sit back, relax, and sip your drink during this 60-minute cruise.

This cruise route takes us through the principal canals, Amstel River and seven bridges, some of Amsterdam’s most notable locations. You can’t truly experience the city without getting to know its waterways!

Reserve your ticket now!

Please note that in case of rain or other bad weather conditions our boats will have a glass cover to make sure you keep dry while enjoying the unblocked views of the canals of Amsterdam.

What is included

• All drinks are included (Heineken beer, white wine, rosé wine, soda’s)
• Toilet on board
• Live guide through the city center

Departure Location Amstel 51F in front of the Hermitage Museum.

OPEN TICKET

If you prefer to pre-book your tickets without being tied to a specific time and date – Book your Open Ticket!

Extra information on the Open Tickets

Please do note that guests that have a ticket for a specific date/time have priority over guests that purchase an Open Ticket. If you would like to make sure that you have a guaranteed spot on one of our boats, please call us at +31(0)6 46 66 10 01. and mention your booking reference number, we are then able to reschedule your Open Ticket to a specific time to make limit the possibility that you have to wait for a significant amount of time before being able to join us for a cruise! To reschedule your tickets; you can call us from Monday-Sunday between 9:30-18:00.  

You can also go to our departure location with your Open Ticket[s], but we then cannot guarantee a spot for you on one of our boats. We look forward to welcoming you on board!

Open tickets are valid on cruises departing between 11:00AM and 8:30PM. Cruises departing at times before 11:00AM or later than 8:30PM can also be joined dependent upon agreement by the captain.

Related Cruises

• Ticket Audio guided
• Users 40 passengers
• Hour Glass 70 min.

STANDARD CRUISE Audio guided tour

Set sail on Boat Amsterdam’s Standard Cruise for a 70-minute audio guided tour. Sail the canals and experience the beauty of Amsterdam from the water on one of our covered boats.

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 really 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. Within this selection, we’re sure that you’ll find a cruise that suits your needs. Best of all, often there’s a discount for booking online!

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. 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 . 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.

There are canal cruises offered both day and night time. Which one is the best canal tour for you is up to you to decide. Obviously, during the day you’ll see more 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, they depart regularly every 20 to 30 minutes. The route goes along all the highlights that Amsterdam has to offer. There are audio guides available in over 18 different languages. Purchasing tickets for your Amsterdam canal tour online will save you a couple of bucks and waiting 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 get to 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 a wine of choice; white, red or rose and 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.

Open booze canal cruise – 90 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 evening 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 give you the chance to shoot some of the most magnificent pictures of Amsterdam, while a cover will protect you in case of rain.

• A 90-minute cruise in a comfortable, open boat
• Free drinks during the cruise
• Ship fitted with a toilet
• Centrally located pick up (5 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station)

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

Canal cruise review

We tried in February 2024 a one-hour Lovers canal cruise ourselves. We departed from Prins Hendrikkade 25 which is next to Central Station. The staff aboard was friendly and helpful. We received a free audio tour that was available in 19 languages . Although we know a lot about Amsterdam ourselves we still heard many new fun facts. In the map above you can see some of the picture locations we passed by. This is just a handful of some of the great picture locations . You can keep your camera on the table in the boat because you will have a new great picture moment almost every minute. The temperature inside of the boat is pleasant since there are electrical heaters near your seats. The chairs are not too big, and you will sit at the table with 3 chairs on each side. If your body weight is above average we recommend you to take this boat in low hours so you probably have more space. Or to consider a boat that’s a bit more spacious with the seatings.

Good to know that there is a toilet on board, and it would be highly appreciated if you tip the captain and the crew some change. Overall we liked the trip, and the hour flew by.

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 en feel part of the city. As you cruise the canals you will see a lot 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 up to 90 minutes or more. If you are happy to go on a classical cruise, you will be cruising 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?

How much is a canal tour in Amsterdam, it is a question often asked. As there are many canal cruises in Amsterdam, 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 do you just want to be with your loved ones? Take a look at your personal 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 and it all depends on your personal preference and budget. We do advise you to go on a canal cruise if you have the chance. A canal cruise in Amsterdam the perfect way to explore and feel part of the most beautifull 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!

Step aboard and enjoy your cruise through the Amsterdam canals

Amsterdam canal cruise from central station.

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without an Amsterdam canal cruise. Get to know the beautiful Dutch capital on a charming canal boat.

Most Popular Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

Semi-open Boat Cruise through Amsterdam

Enjoy the majesty of Amsterdam’s waterways on an semi-open boat cruise. Rain or shine, this cruise is always enjoyable!

Evening canal cruise through Amsterdam

Fall in love with Amsterdam on an canal cruise at nighttime. The ‘Venice of the North’ comes alive during this hour.

Cruise like a local in an open boat

Discover the smaller waterways of Amsterdam that the big boats can't reach.

New York Pizza by LOVERS

Complete your visit to Amsterdam with this unique New York Pizza by LOVERS canal cruise! Enjoy an oven-fresh pizza and ice cream on board as you cruise the Amsterdam canals.

Wine & Cheese Cruise

You can’t go wrong with this fun and delicious Wine & Cheese Cruise. Book now for an amazing experience with your friends or family.

Amsterdam Dinner Cruise

Get ready for an evening on the water with a delicious four course meal. It is sure to be a dinner experience unlike any you’ve ever had before.

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Captain Dave's

canal cruises Amsterdam

comfortable

Saloon Outer deck Toilet on board

your captain your guide your host

All-inclusive

BOAT TOUR CAPTAIN FLEXIBLE ROUTE

Small group Non scripted Cruise in Style

CAPTAIN DAVE'S BOAT TOURS

—every day an adventure.

Early Morning cruise

—canals to ourselves.

• Small group up to 12p
• Daily at 8:00 and 10:00 AM
• €39 adult / €29 child

CRUISE LIKE A LOCAL

—explore the canals.

• Afternoon and evening
• €42 adult / €32 child

PRIVATE BOAT TOUR

—cruise in style.

• from 90 minutes
• Private group up to 12p
• On availability
• Only €215 per hour

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

—artificial intelligence.

• 11/30/2023-01/21/2024

What our guests say

—about captain dave's canal cruises.

All reviews >>

Features of the royal jonckvrouw, —the flagship of amsterdam since 1928.

100% electric —Since 2021 the Royal Jonckvrouw is fully electric.

Sliding sunroof —We slide the roof open when the weather is right. The fun of an open sloop with the comfort of a salon boat.

Outerdeck —A plus for taking pictures, enjoying the beauty of the canals and the bright sky. Or if you want to smoke a cigarette, you can do it here.

Sliding windows —The boat has as much coverage as you want. You can easily open and close the glass windows yourself.

Toilet on board —An unexpected luxury. Most boat owners cut down the toilet to create additional seating. We understand the need.

Captain's Office —With the authentic 1928 wooden steering wheel. Want to sail yourself? Ask the captain!

Covered lounge —12-person comfortable saloon with 2 spacious couches and 2 love seats. In the middle a table for drinks, snacks, lunch or buffet.

• 2024 CAPTAIN DAVE AMSTERDAM

Home Rondvaarten Amsterdam Blue Sky Boat

Blue Sky Boat

• Family friendly

About this activity

Important information, blue sky boat: our gorgeous open boat in amsterdam, open boat amsterdam– an intimate introduction to amsterdam..

This summer you can experience an intimate, personal cruising experience with our Blue Sky Boat. Because this is an open boat, you can fully enjoy the views and the beautiful weather. And with this small open boat, we can show you places in the city that are inaccessible to larger tour boats. The captain of your open boat in Amsterdam can tell you everything about the city and is happy to answer all your questions. Of course you can also take the most beautiful pictures of the canals of Amsterdam and the buildings of the Golden Age during your open boat tour. Looking for a very special tour in Amsterdam? Our open boat in Amsterdam is so much fun!

What can I expect from Blue Boat’s open boat in Amsterdam tour?

A tour with an open boat in Amsterdam is a very pleasant and personal experience. After all, there are only a limited number of people on the boat. During your open boat tour in Amsterdam, the captain tells you all about the history of the city and shows you the prettiest houses and canals. And because our open boat is so much smaller than a normal canal cruise boat, we can sail through the smallest canals. This way, you also see lesser-known parts of the city during your open boat tour in Amsterdam.

Just imagine: the sun is shining, the birds are chirping and you are cruising through the water, taking pictures of the beauty of Amsterdam to your heart’s content. Suddenly, you see the Skinny Bridge appear, you see Amsterdammers cycling along the canals and you quickly take a photo. All of this is possible during your tour with an open boat in Amsterdam. Buy your ticket(s) now and sail with us along the most beautiful spots of the city.

Tip for sunny days: while it is absolutely wonderful to sail with the Blue Sky Boat on a beautiful day, don’t forget to bring your sunscreen (and maybe a hat) to enjoy the sunshine. It usually feels a bit colder on the water, but the sun can also be very treacherous.

What is included in the open boat tour in Amsterdam?

If you book our Blue Sky Boat, this is included:

• Amsterdam canal cruise of 75 minutes
• Personal explanation of your captain

Please note that drinks and/or snacks are not included in this sightseeing tour, but are available at the ticket office before departure.

How can I book tickets for the tour with the open boat in Amsterdam?

Are you interested in this luxury cruise through the Amsterdam canals? Then you can easily buy your ticket(s) on our website in just a few steps.

After booking, you will receive a confirmation email with further instructions. You do not have to print out your tickets, but you can show them digitally via our app when boarding the boat. Are you ready to step aboard a beautiful open boat for a wonderful guided tour in Amsterdam?

Please note: we request our visitors to book their ticket online in advance to avoid crowds at the cash registers. Also, keep in mind that you pay the full price for a canal cruise ticket at the cash register.

Do you have a promo code? Then you have to make a separate booking for each person and each promo code.

Where do I board the Blue Sky Boat cruise?

Your open boat tour in Amsterdam departs from the Blue Boat dock at Stadhouderskade 501, opposite the Hard Rock Cafe.

Please note that Blue Boat has two docks. If you accidentally end up at the Stadhouderskade 550 (at the Heineken Experience), you’ll have to walk about 750 meters towards the Vondelpark entrance. On your right, you will see our dock opposite the Hard Rock Cafe.

Is a tour with Blue Boat’s Sky Boat also fun for children?

Our canal cruises are fun for young and old! The open boat is super fun because nothing’s blocking your view, which kids love. Other than our open boat, we also recommend our Kids Cruise . This is a cruise with an audio story for kids, so they don’t get bored.

Is the open boat wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, our open boat is not wheelchair accessible, but our regular cruises like the City Canal Cruise are. You’ll find more information about how to book a wheelchair accessible cruise on the product page.

Which other cruises does Blue Boat Company offer?

You can also discover the beautiful city of Amsterdam during one of our other canal cruises in Amsterdam. We offer evening canal cruises, a special cruise for children (our Kids Cruise ) and of course our famous City Canal Cruise . We’ve been offering canal tours for years, so every Blue Boat tour is a winner!

Would you rather rent a private boat? That’s also possible. Take a look at our group arrangements . You can for instance book a Dinner Cruise or a Buffet Cruise . A private cruise is wonderful to celebrate with friends and family.

Book your tickets

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