Amsterdam: 90 minute Happy Holidays Evening Cruise

Experience the Magic of Amsterdam’s Holiday Canals

Our review of the Amsterdam: 90-minute Happy Holidays Evening Cruise highlights a cozy, festive way to see the city’s iconic waterways during the holiday season. With its twinkling lights, charming bridges, and beautifully lit historic buildings, this cruise offers a warm escape from the winter chill — perfect for those seeking a relaxed, atmospheric experience.

What makes this cruise stand out are its heartwarming Christmas story, the spectacular illumination of the city, and the chance to sip on Glühwein or hot chocolate while gliding past landmarks. However, some guests suggest that the route may not always pass the brightest displays, and the storytelling could be more engaging for some.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic views with a touch of holiday magic, especially those wanting a relaxed evening activity. It’s also great for families, couples, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with seasonal cheer in a comfortable setting.

Good To Know

• Beautiful Canal Views: Experience Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canals illuminated with holiday lights.
• Festive Atmosphere: Decorated boats with twinkling lights create a cozy, holiday ambiance.
• Cultural Highlights: Pass by landmarks like Westerkerk, the Eye Institute, and the Rijksmuseum with stunning nighttime views.
• Warm Beverages Included: Sip on traditional Glühwein or rich hot chocolate, complemented with Eberhardt cookies.
• Storytelling in Multiple Languages: Enjoy a touching Christmas story available in six languages, adding a modern holiday touch.
• Accessibility and Value: Wheelchair accessible and priced at $30 per person, offering a delightful seasonal experience without breaking the bank.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the 90-Minute Holiday Cruise in Amsterdam

This cruise from the Blue Boat Company – Gray Line Amsterdam offers a delightful way to soak in the festive spirit of Amsterdam’s canals. Starting at Stadhouderskade 550, right across from the iconic Heineken Experience, the meeting process is straightforward. The dock is easily accessible by tram or metro, making it convenient for most visitors.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Once aboard, you’ll find the boat elegantly decorated for the holidays, with twinkling fairy lights and festive ornaments that immediately set a cheerful tone. The 1.5-hour journey provides just enough time to relax and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary

While the cruise begins at Stadhouderskade 550, the route takes you through some of Amsterdam’s most scenic areas. Key sights include the Prinsengracht, Westerkerk, and the historic Grachtengordel-West. The boat also passes notable landmarks like the EYE Film Institute, Amsterdam Centraal Station, and the A’DAM Tower, offering both scenic views and photo opportunities.

Special attention is paid to the illuminated bridges such as the Magere Brug and Blauwbrug, which look especially stunning reflecting their lights in the water. Guests often comment on the serene beauty of these scenes, with reflections flickering like stars on the canal surface.

The Christmas Story and Audio Experience

A highlight of this cruise is the modern yet traditional Christmas story, narrated through an audio guide available in six languages. Reviewers mention it as “heartwarming” but note that some find it slightly dull or too long for the duration. One guest from France appreciated the “cute” storytelling, while others felt it could be more engaging.

The story tackles themes of family, love, and cherished traditions, resonating with many during the holiday season. It’s designed to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

Beverages and Local Treats

The included Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) provides a comforting warmth, especially on a chilly evening, while the hot chocolate offers a rich, creamy alternative topped with whipped cream. Guests have noted that the Glühwein helps set the holiday mood, and the Eberhardt cookies — a tribute to the late Mayor Eberhard van der Laan — add a local touch to the experience.

Some guests, like one who received an extra cup of Glühwein because of low occupancy, appreciated the friendly and accommodating crew.

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The Illumination and Scenic Highlights

As the boat glides through the canals, you’ll observe Amsterdam’s iconic buildings bathed in holiday lights. The reflections on the water amplify the festive atmosphere, creating picture-perfect scenes. However, a reviewer pointed out that the route might not always position you directly under the brightest displays, which can be a bit disappointing if you’re expecting a full-blown light show.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While most find the experience charming, some reviews mention that the route might not showcase all the Christmas lights, depending on the night. The storytelling, though heartfelt, may feel too lengthy for some, especially if you prefer a more lively narration or more historical detail.

The price of $30 per person offers good value for the experience, considering the scenic views, beverages, and festive extras included. For those seeking a more immersive or interactive experience, this cruise might lean more toward the tranquil side.

Why Choose This Experience?

If you’re after a relaxing way to see Amsterdam’s holiday lights, this cruise delivers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy peaceful scenery combined with a cozy atmosphere. The inclusion of hot drinks and cookies makes it feel like a seasonal treat, perfect for families or couples wanting a quiet evening out.

However, if you’re seeking a more dynamic or light-filled route, or a story that keeps you more engaged, you might find this cruise a little subdued. Overall, it’s a balanced offering that emphasizes scenic beauty and comfort over high-energy entertainment.

Final Thoughts

This cruise is a solid choice for those wanting a gentle, scenic overview of Amsterdam during the holidays. The combination of beautiful canal views, festive lights, and warm drinks creates a warm, nostalgic vibe that’s perfect for capturing holiday memories.

The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas make it a noteworthy experience, especially if you enjoy peaceful cruises with a dash of holiday storytelling. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with enough charm to make it memorable.

The experience is most valuable for travelers who prioritize atmosphere, comfort, and scenic beauty over high-energy activities. Its affordability makes it accessible, yet it doesn’t skimp on the holiday magic or stunning views — a win for those looking to soak in Amsterdam’s festive glow.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. To reserve a wheelchair seat, contact reservations at +31 206791370.

What is included in the price? The price covers a 90-minute cruise, a choice of Glühwein or hot chocolate, Eberhardt cookies, and a Christmas story in six languages.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do I meet for the cruise? The dock is at Stadhouderskade 550, opposite the Heineken Experience, accessible by tram or metro with just a few minutes’ walk.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the sights and atmosphere.

What are the main sights during the cruise? You’ll pass by landmarks such as Westerkerk, the Eye Institute, Amsterdam Centraal, A’DAM Tower, and the historic bridges like Magere Brug and Blauwbrug.

Is the storytelling engaging? The audio story is described as heartwarming but may feel slightly long or dull to some. It adds a cozy, seasonal touch but might not be the highlight for everyone.

In short, this holiday canal cruise offers a charming, tranquil way to experience Amsterdam’s festive glow. It’s ideal for those who want to unwind, enjoy stunning night views, and partake in seasonal warmth. With comfortable amenities and beautiful scenery, it promises a memorable holiday outing for a wide range of travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: