Amsterdam: Light Festival Boat with Unlimited Drinks & Snack

If you’re visiting Amsterdam during its renowned Light Festival, a boat tour like this one offers an excellent way to see the city’s magical illumination without battling the crowds or cold. While we haven’t personally taken this exact cruise, reviews and descriptions paint a compelling picture of what to expect from this highly-rated experience.

What we love about this tour? First, it’s the top-rated Light Festival cruise in Amsterdam—a title it’s held two years in a row. Second, the knowledgeable guides and storytelling bring the stunning light art installations to life, adding depth to the visual feast. Lastly, the cozy, modern electric boat with blankets and an optional unlimited drinks bar makes the experience both comfortable and indulgent.

A potential consideration is the timing and weather—as it’s an outdoor experience in winter, dressing warmly is a must, and delays may happen due to canal activity. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate art, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, and want a fun way to explore the city’s nightscape with friends or family.

Good To Know

• Highly-rated experience with over 2,500 reviews and a 4.5/5 score
• Ideal for art lovers and those wanting a festive, illuminated view of Amsterdam’s canals
• Includes unlimited drinks (if option chosen), making it a great value
• Warm blankets and storytelling enhance the comfort and educational aspect
• Electric, eco-friendly boat keeps the experience quiet and environmentally conscious
• Flexible upgrade options available on arrival for drinks and snacks

This boat tour offers an accessible and fun way to experience Amsterdam’s Light Festival, which runs from late November to mid-January. The electric-powered boat is modern and designed to shield guests from the chill, ensuring comfort as you soak in the dazzling displays. The theme of the fourteenth edition, “Legacy,” invites reflection on what we leave behind, reflected through artworks by international artists.

Your journey lasts about 75 minutes, which is enough to soak in multiple canal sights without feeling rushed. The tour covers key areas like Golden Bend, Herengracht, Grachtengordel-West, Haarlemmersluis, and the NEMO Science Museum, finishing back at the starting point. As you float past these landmarks, you’ll see around 20 illuminated art installations—each one telling its own story.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Light Festival Experience

The festival’s “Legacy” theme adds depth to the visual display, prompting questions about what we preserve and what we leave behind. Reviewers mention the artworks as a highlight, with some noting how the stories behind each piece add meaningful context, making the experience more engaging.

Your onboard host and captain provide live narration, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise. Several reviews rave about guides like Caitlin, Sabrina, and Eliza, calling them “friendly,” “knowledgeable,” and “engaging”. One reviewer even remarked that their guide “kept everyone intrigued and excited,” which is precisely what you want for a relaxed but meaningful tour.

Starting at The Starboard Dock, the cruise sets off into the canals, passing through several notable spots. The Golden Bend is often hailed for its picturesque views, while Herengracht offers a panoramic stretch of Amsterdam’s historic canal ring. The Grachtengordel-West area shines brightly with artworks that highlight the festival’s theme.

As you cruise towards Haarlemmersluis, the atmosphere shifts into a more intimate, illuminated setting. The boat glides past Amsterdam Centraal Station—a prime spot for cityscape views—and then by the NEMO Science Museum, which usually features in the festival’s artwork displays. The Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) provides a brief, scenic stop, perfect for photos before returning to the dock.

The Art and Lighting

The festival showcases 20 luminous installations, with some viewers noting that they felt a deeper appreciation for the art after hearing the stories shared by guides. The “Legacy” theme is explored through artwork that reflects on what we cherish—monumental pieces alongside personal stories, creating a layered and thought-provoking experience.

Since the tour is held during Amsterdam’s chilly winter months, blankets are provided to keep guests warm, which numerous reviews highlight as a thoughtful touch. The optional unlimited drinks—including beer, wine, glühwein, hot chocolate, and soft drinks—are a standout feature, especially given the reasonable price of $33 per person.

Guests have praised the generosity of the bar, with many noting that their drinks were topped up throughout. Reviewers also mention the welcome snack, which adds a touch of hospitality to the experience.

Who Should Consider the Drinks Option?

Many mention how the drinks package amplifies the fun, making it a more relaxed, social affair. Those who enjoy wine or hot chocolate will find it particularly satisfying. If you prefer a quieter experience or are not drinking alcohol, there’s an option to skip this upgrade at check-in.

The meeting point at The Starboard Dock is straightforward—look for staff in blue uniforms marked “Starboard,” ready to assist with boarding. The tour runs approximately 75 minutes, with check availability for specific start times.

Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak holiday season, and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund. Keep in mind that delays are possible during busy canal activity, so arriving a bit early helps avoid missing your departure.

What to Bring?

• Passport or ID for verification
• Warm, layered clothing and a jacket
• Comfortable shoes for walking after the cruise

Not allowed: Pets and external drinks. The boat is designed for comfort and safety, and outside alcohol isn’t permitted onboard.

With over 2,500 reviews averaging 4.5/5, this tour clearly resonates with travelers. Many mention how knowledgeable guides—like Caitlin, Sabrina, and Eliza—made the experience memorable with interesting stories and friendly banter.

Guests love the cosy atmosphere, often noting that blankets and heaters help combat the cold. The drinks are frequently praised for the variety and ample supply, with many reviewers calling it “great value” and “a fun way to warm up.”

Several comments highlight the stunning light displays—some even describing it as their favorite activity in Amsterdam. The overall sentiment is that this cruise combines art, culture, and comfort into a well-rounded experience.

This cruise is perfect for art enthusiasts wanting to explore the festival’s installations in a relaxed setting. It also suits groups of friends or couples looking for a cozy, festive outing. The unlimited drinks and warm blankets make it especially appealing during winter nights.

If you’re after a guided, insightful view of Amsterdam’s light art with the chance to indulge and socialize, this cruise fits the bill. However, if you prefer a shorter or more active sightseeing experience, this might feel a bit leisurely.

For $33 plus optional upgrades, this tour offers a delightful combination of visual spectacle, educational storytelling, and cozy comfort. The experience’s strength lies in the friendly guides, stunning light displays, and generous drinks—all making it an enjoyable, memorable night.

This cruise shines brightest for those who appreciate art, ambiance, and a relaxed vibe. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting to experience the Light Festival without the hassle of crowded streets or chilly evenings standing outside.

While there’s a small chance of delays during busy times, the overall value is evident. The attention to guest comfort and the quality of storytelling ensure you’ll leave with not just beautiful photos but also a deeper understanding of what makes Amsterdam’s lights so enchanting.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the alcohol options are only for those of legal drinking age. Children can enjoy the sights, blankets, and snacks, but parents should consider the late evening timing.

Can I upgrade to unlimited drinks on the day of the tour?
Yes, if you didn’t select the drinks package initially, you can upgrade when arriving at the boat.

What should I wear for the cruise?
Dress warmly with layered clothing, a jacket, and comfortable shoes—especially as it’s in winter and the weather can be chilly.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
Reviews mention there is no bathroom on the boat, so it’s best to use facilities before boarding.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the views and stories without feeling rushed.

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

What happens if the weather is bad?
The boat is designed to be cozy and weather-resistant, but heavy rain or snow might cause delays or discomfort. Dress appropriately and be prepared for possible adjustments.

This electric boat tour of Amsterdam’s Light Festival combines art, storytelling, and comfort into a balanced experience perfect for those seeking a meaningful and relaxing night out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, the illuminated canals and friendly guides promise an evening worth remembering.

You can check if your dates are available here: