Amsterdam: Guided Open Boat Canal Cruise Including Drink

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to see the city from a fresh perspective, a guided open boat canal cruise might just be your best bet. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on extensive reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that this experience offers a relaxed, scenic, and informative way to explore the Dutch capital’s iconic waterways.

What we love most about this cruise is its combination of comfort, local insights, and stunning sights. Plus, the option to upgrade with an open bar adds a fun, social element that many travelers appreciate. A potential consideration? The tour lasts just about an hour, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration or a longer experience, you might want to combine this with other activities.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a low-key, scenic introduction to Amsterdam without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or travelers looking for a relaxed way to enjoy the city’s waterways. If you’re eager for a smooth, well-organized cruise with knowledgeable guides and charming views, this one deserves a spot on your list.

Good To Know

• Comfortable, electric open boats ensure a quiet, eco-friendly ride.
• Insightful live commentary provides context and stories behind the sights.
• Flexible options include an unlimited open bar for added fun.
• Ideal duration of around 1 hour makes it a quick yet satisfying experience.
• Multiple stops and photo opportunities allow for capturing memorable views.
• Great value for money considering the quality of experience and included drinks.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why You’ll Love the Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Amsterdam’s canals are the very image that many associate with the city: charming, historic, and endlessly photogenic. This tour offers the chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the hustle of walking or navigating busy streets. The boat itself is electric and quiet, which means you won’t be disturbed by engine noise, allowing for better conversations and photos.

One of the standout features is the knowledgeable local guide, who provides engaging commentary on the city’s landmarks, history, and secret spots. Reviewers like Snezana mention that the guide shared “a lot of fun and interesting information,” making the experience both relaxing and educational.

The views along the Amstel River and the iconic canal houses are breathtaking. Bethany highlights that “the weather was beautiful, which made the cruise even more special,” emphasizing how this experience can be a highlight when the weather cooperates. You’ll pass landmarks like the Royal Theater Carré, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), and the Jewish Cultural District — all with commentary that makes each stop more meaningful.

The optional unlimited drinks upgrade is frequently praised, turning a simple sightseeing cruise into a lively social event. Reviewers like Sarah loved that “the drinks kept flowing, and the guide kept it fun,” adding a layer of casual indulgence to an already charming experience.

What to Expect During the Tour

The cruise begins at one of two convenient starting points: Mokumboot’s dock at Stationsplein or directly from Amsterdam Central Station. The departure location is easy to find, thanks to clear signage, and the crew is friendly and welcoming.

Once onboard, you’ll settle into a comfortable open boat, equipped with blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas if needed — because Dutch weather can be unpredictable. The duration is approximately one hour, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day without feeling rushed.

The route covers many famous sights, including the Seven Bridges, the Waterlooplein Market, and the Anne Frank House. Multiple photo stops, like the Sea Palace and Het Scheepvaartmuseum, allow for quick snapshots of scenic spots. While the itinerary includes numerous stops, the main attraction remains the relaxing cruise and the views.

The tour’s live commentary is a highlight; guides like William and Ava are praised for their engaging storytelling. Madalena notes that the experience is “very fun and chill,” with the guide doing a great job of providing a comprehensive view of Amsterdam’s waterways and history.

If you opt for the open bar upgrade, you’ll find unlimited drinks that keep the mood lively. This is particularly appreciated by groups or couples looking to toast to their trip — reviews repeatedly mention how the drinks and friendly atmosphere elevate the experience.

The Experience in Detail

The Boats and Comfort

The boats are electric, ensuring a quiet and environmentally friendly ride. This means less engine noise and more opportunity to enjoy the company and scenery. Guests report that blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas are provided, which is thoughtful given Amsterdam’s often unpredictable weather.

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Guide and Commentary

The guides seem to be a genuine asset. According to reviews, they share a mix of facts, stories, and local insights that make the tour more engaging. Daniella describes her trip as “lovely and relaxing,” with a guide who “kept us feeling welcome,” making the whole experience more personable.

Sights and Photo Opportunities

The route offers a great overview of the city’s most famous waterways and landmarks. The Magere Brug, a picturesque and historic drawbridge, is a favorite stop for photos. The Waterlooplein Market and the NEMO Science Museum are also visible from the water, offering interesting visual contrasts between old and new.

Reviewers mention that the tour captures Amsterdam’s essence — its lovely houses, bustling markets, and scenic bridges. Many appreciate that the tour offers a “comprehensive view” of the city with enough stops for photos and quick walks.

The Open Bar and Social Atmosphere

The upgrade to unlimited drinks is a big hit. It turns a sightseeing cruise into a social event with drinks flowing, as described by Sarah and Gavin. This option is especially popular with groups and couples who want a relaxed, fun experience without worrying about extra costs.

Duration and Pacing

At just about an hour, the cruise is a perfect snapshot of Amsterdam. Some reviews mention that the guide kept the time well-balanced, giving enough overview without dragging on. If you’re after a deeper dive into specific areas, you might want to combine this with other tours, but for a quick scenic overview, it hits the mark.

Pricing and Value

At $26 per person, this cruise offers excellent value, especially when considering the quality of commentary, the comfort of the boat, and the optional unlimited drinks. The reviews suggest that the experience exceeds expectations for the price point — many call it “great value for money” and praise the professionalism of the crew.

The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind, and reserving in advance allows you to secure your spot during busy periods.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways. It suits couples seeking a romantic overview, small groups wanting a lively social experience, or solo travelers eager for some engaging commentary while enjoying the views.

If you’re not a fan of long, exhaustive tours, or if you prefer to explore on foot or by bike, this provides a perfect complement rather than a full-day activity. It’s also suitable for those with limited time, as the entire experience is quick, comfortable, and easy to fit into a busy itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam guided open boat canal cruise offers a charming, informative, and affordable way to see the city from its famous waterways. The combination of eco-friendly electric boats, friendly guides, scenic views, and optional unlimited drinks makes it a well-rounded experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, interesting commentary, and good value, all wrapped up in a relaxing hour-long ride. The many positive reviews confirm that this tour provides a memorable snapshot of Amsterdam’s unique charm — without the hassle of planning or navigating.

Whether you’re after a quick overview or a casual social outing, this cruise hits the right notes. It’s a lovely way to unwind and absorb the city’s essence from the comfort of a smooth, scenic boat ride.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick yet fulfilling way to see many of Amsterdam’s waterways and landmarks.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll meet your crew in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station, on the “Middenkom” opposite the Victoria Hotel. The meeting point is clearly marked with a red banner.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boats are electric, quiet, and equipped with blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

Can I upgrade for drinks?
Absolutely, there’s an option for unlimited drinks onboard, which many reviewers say adds a fun, lively atmosphere.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see iconic sights including the Amstel River, Skinny Bridge, Jewish Cultural District, NEMO Science Museum, and the Anne Frank House, among others.

Is the commentary live?
Yes, guides like Ava and William provide live narration, sharing interesting stories, facts, and insights about the city.

Is it suitable for all weather conditions?
The tour provides ponchos and umbrellas, so it can operate in light rain. However, very poor weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

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

You can check if your dates are available here: