Alkmaar: Cruise from the Cheese Market

When it comes to experiencing the Netherlands, most travelers think of Amsterdam’s canals or Zaanse Schans windmills. But Alkmaar offers a different flavor — quaint streets, historic charm, and, of course, its famous cheese market. The Alkmaar Cheese Cruise, run by Smidtje Canal Cruises, blends a scenic boat ride with tasting Dutch cheeses, making it a delightful way to spend an hour and fifteen minutes.

We love that this cruise provides panoramic views of Alkmaar’s iconic landmarks, the chance to sample authentic Dutch cheese, and the opportunity to learn about the city’s history from a knowledgeable skipper. Plus, the comfortable boat with a panoramic roof and outdoor photo deck makes for a relaxed sightseeing experience. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t fully accessible for those with mobility impairments, which might be a consideration for some travelers.

If you’re looking for a casual, informative, and tasty way to explore Alkmaar, this cruise suits visitors who enjoy scenic views, local food, and a touch of history without the fuss of a large group. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to experience a different side of North Holland.

Good To Know

• Short but sweet: The 75-minute duration is perfect for a relaxed overview of Alkmaar’s waterways and sights.
• Authentic cheese tasting: Enjoy Dutch cheese on board, adding a delicious local flavor to your experience.
• Multilingual commentary: Captivating audio guidance in Dutch, English, and German enriches the journey.
• Comfortable and scenic: A boat with panoramic views and an outdoor photo deck makes for memorable pictures.
• Accessible considerations: Limited space on the outer deck and steps to board could be a challenge for those with mobility issues.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offers peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The cruise departs from the Waagplein, a historic square right next to the famous Alkmaar Cheese Market. Look for the Smidtje Canal Cruises flags at the jetty. The meeting point is straightforward, and the location itself is central, making it easy for travelers to combine with other sightseeing or a stroll through Alkmaar’s charming streets.

Note: The activity might pose challenges for those with impaired mobility due to steps needed to board, and limited space on the outdoor deck for wheelchairs or strollers. It’s best to check with the provider in advance if accessibility is a concern.

The Boat and Comfort

The boat used for this cruise is designed with comfort in mind. It features a panoramic roof, which is an excellent feature for sightseeing during sunnier days, and a comfortable rear deck that offers unobstructed views of the city’s waterways and landmarks. During the summer months, you can enjoy the warm sun while taking photos or just relaxing in the open air.

The Narrative and Commentary

Your guide, a knowledgeable skipper, provides audio commentary in Dutch, English, and German, offering insight into Alkmaar’s rich history and local culture. Although some reviews have mentioned that the German translation can be hard to understand, overall, the commentary helps frame the sights and stories along the route.

One reviewer remarked that they would have liked more historical detail, suggesting that the narration is engaging but perhaps not deeply educational. Still, the personal guidance adds a friendly touch to the experience, making it feel less like a passive ride and more like a guided tour.

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Scenic Highlights and Landmarks

During the cruise, you can expect to see several of Alkmaar’s notable sights from the water, including its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and the iconic city center. While the actual route avoids the narrower inner-city canals, you’ll still get a lovely overview of the town’s main points of interest.

Cheese and Drinks on Board

One of the top features is the opportunity to try typical Dutch cheese, which you can purchase on board along with refreshing drinks. Although not included in the base price, these local treats add flavor to your cruise and give you a taste of Dutch culture. Reviewers have noted that the cheese is delicious and authentic, making it a highlight for cheese lovers.

The Outdoor Photo Deck

The outdoor photo deck is a standout feature, offering the best vantage point for snapping pictures and capturing the beauty of Alkmaar from the water. It’s a particularly enjoyable area during good weather, allowing for sunny selfies and scenic shots.

Value and Pricing: Is It Worth It?

The 75-minute cruise offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, local food, and cultural insight, all at a reasonable price point considering the personalized guidance and scenic views. While the cost isn’t explicitly listed here, reviews suggest it’s a good value for the experience provided, especially when compared to larger or less intimate tours.

The option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, and the free cancellation policy (up to 24 hours beforehand) is a bonus for those finalizing travel plans. Keep in mind that drinks and cheese are extra, so budget for those if you want to indulge fully.

Authentic Experiences and Additional Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are generally knowledgeable, contributing to a pleasant experience. One reviewer pointed out that the guide’s English was good, but German translation could be improved. This highlights the importance of good audio equipment and clear narration for non-native speakers.

The cheese tasting is a definite highlight, with many guests appreciating the chance to sample Dutch cheese in a scenic setting. Some reviews mention that the tour could be enhanced if it included more within-city canals, but the current route still provides a good overview of Alkmaar’s waterways and landmarks.

Seasonal Considerations

In summer, the outdoor deck becomes a favorite spot for basking in the sun, making the cruise feel even more relaxed. During cooler months, you’ll be mostly indoors, enjoying the panoramic views from the comfort of the boat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic introduction to Alkmaar with a taste of local culture. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers eager to enjoy a gentle boat ride with memorable photo opportunities and cheese tasting.

However, those with mobility issues should consider the physical challenges involved, as access can be limited. It also appeals to visitors looking for a short, meaningful activity that complements other sightseeing plans in North Holland.

The Sum Up

The Alkmaar Cheese Cruise offers a charming and relaxed way to explore Alkmaar’s waterways, combining scenic views with delicious Dutch cheese. It balances comfort and authenticity, making it a delightful addition to any North Holland itinerary. The knowledgeable guides, panoramic boat design, and outdoor photo deck make it a fun and engaging experience, especially on sunny days.

While the commentary could be clearer for some non-Dutch speakers, the overall value is high — you get a scenic boat ride, cultural insights, and tasty treats all in one package. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a gentle, informative, and tasty introduction to this historic Dutch town.

If you’re after a value-packed, authentic experience with a dash of culinary delight, this cruise is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of accessibility limitations and plan accordingly for a smooth adventure.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, though space on the outdoor deck is limited for strollers or wheelchairs.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, providing a relaxing overview of Alkmaar’s waterways.

Are drinks and cheese included in the price?
No, drinks and cheese are available for purchase onboard, but they are not included in the base ticket.

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

Is the cruise accessible for people with mobility impairments?
Limited access is available; steps are involved in boarding, and space on the outer deck is limited for wheelchairs and strollers.

What languages are available for commentary?
Audio commentary is provided in Dutch, English, and German.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather; during summer, casual attire and sun protection are ideal.

Where exactly do we meet?
At the jetty next to the cheese market in Waagplein. Look for the Smidtje Canal Cruises flags.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, this experience allows you to reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Embark on this scenic, tasty cruise for a memorable taste of Alkmaar from the water — a genuine slice of Dutch life with a side of cheese.

You can check if your dates are available here: