As the sun sets and darkness envelops the city, Amsterdam transforms into a sparkling tapestry of light, illuminating the canals and captivating the senses.
The Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise invites you to embark on a journey like no other, where you can learn about the mesmerizing world of light sculptures that adorn the city’s iconic landmarks.
But the experience is not just about the artworks; it’s about the unique perspective afforded by the tranquil waters, the gentle swaying of the boat, and the expert commentary that reveals the stories behind the dazzling displays.
So step aboard the Gordita, wrap yourself in a warm blanket, and let the magic of Amsterdam’s illuminated canals transport you to a realm of enchantment.
Good To Know

- The Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise offers a 1.5 hour experience with a boat cruise along the canals.
- The starting location is Prinsengracht 375, and the cruise passes by main sites such as the flower market and famous dancing houses.
- The cruise showcases impressive light sculptures and famous landmarks, providing a unique perspective on the water.
- The tour includes complimentary drinks and snacks, heated seats and blankets, and a private setting for up to 10 people.
Activity Details

The activity details for the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise offer flexibility, convenience, and an immersive 1.5-hour experience along the city’s enchanting canals. With a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with peace of mind and receive a full refund if plans change.
The cruise also provides a live tour guide, fluent in Dutch, English, and German, to enhance the experience with informative commentary and interesting anecdotes about the festival and the city. This ensures that participants can fully enjoy the beauty of the light sculptures while learning about the history and culture of Amsterdam.
The combination of a free cancellation policy and live tour guide availability makes the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise a convenient and enriching experience for all.
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Experience Highlights

Set out on a captivating 1.5-hour journey through Amsterdam’s enchanting canals and learn about the mesmerizing experience of the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise.
Here are three experience highlights that will leave you in awe:
Best time to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival: The boat cruise takes place during the annual Amsterdam Light Festival, which runs from late November to mid-January. This is when the city is transformed into a magical wonderland of light and art, making it the perfect time to witness the stunning light sculptures.
Must-see light sculptures during the boat cruise: As you glide along the canals, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at some of the festival’s most impressive light sculptures. From towering installations to intricate designs, these artworks bring an extra dimension to the city’s already beautiful landscape.
Immersive experience with famous landmarks: Along the way, you’ll also pass by famous landmarks such as the flower market and the dancing houses. These iconic sights, illuminated by the festival’s enchanting lights, create a truly unforgettable experience.
Get ready to be captivated by the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise and witness the city in a whole new light.
Starting Location

Located at Prinsengracht 375, the starting point for the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise offers a picturesque setting to begin your enchanting journey through the city’s illuminated canals. From this charming spot, visitors can embark on a 1.5-hour boat cruise that takes them along the official light sculpture route. As you step aboard the Gordita, a white boat with a blue roof and turquoise blue seats, you’ll be greeted by a knowledgeable tour guide who can provide commentary in Dutch, English, or German. The boat will pass by notable landmarks such as the flower market and the famous dancing houses, allowing you to take in the beauty of the illuminated sculptures and the surrounding attractions. To make the experience even more enjoyable, the boat is equipped with heated seats and blankets to keep you warm, and complimentary drinks and snacks are provided.
To fully appreciate the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise, it is recommended to choose the best time of day for the tour. The evening hours offer a magical atmosphere as the city’s lights begin to glow, creating a stunning backdrop for the light sculptures. As the sun sets, the canals take on a romantic ambiance, and the reflections of the illuminated artworks on the water add to the enchantment. Therefore, the evening time slot is often considered the most ideal for experiencing the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise. However, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather, as it can get chilly on the water during the winter months.
| Key Information | |
|---|---|
| Starting Location | Prinsengracht 375 |
| Nearby Attractions | Flower Market, Famous Dancing Houses |
| Best Time of Day | Evening |
Grachtengordel Cruise

As the boat glides along the illuminated canals of Amsterdam, the Grachtengordel Cruise offers a captivating journey through the historic heart of the city, showcasing its iconic landmarks and enchanting light sculptures.
Witness the mesmerizing beauty of the city’s famous landmarks as they sparkle with dazzling lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Enjoy the rich history and architecture of Amsterdam’s Grachtengordel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Be amazed by the stunning light sculptures that adorn the canals, transforming them into a vibrant and dynamic art gallery.
The Grachtengordel Cruise isn’t just a canal tour, but a truly immersive experience that allows you to explore Amsterdam’s charm and allure from a unique perspective.
Prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking sights and sounds of this unforgettable journey through the heart of the city.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFull Description
Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise and embark on a mesmerizing journey through the city’s illuminated canals. This unique cruise allows you to view spectacular light sculptures from the water, providing a truly enchanting perspective.
As you cruise along the official light sculpture route, you’ll pass by the famous flower market and the iconic dancing houses. The 1.5-hour ride offers heated seats and blankets to keep you warm, ensuring a cozy experience even on chilly evenings. Complimentary drinks and snacks are also provided onboard, adding to the overall enjoyment. However, it’s important to note that there are no bathroom facilities available on the boat.
The best time to go on this cruise is during the Amsterdam Light Festival, which takes place annually from late November to mid-January. During this time, the city is transformed into a magical wonderland of lights, making the boat cruise even more captivating.
Common Questions

Is There a Restroom Available on Board During the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise?
Restroom facilities are not available on board during the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise. Unfortunately, this means it may not be suitable for individuals with disabilities who require accessible facilities.
Can Wheelchair Users Participate in the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise?
Wheelchair users are unable to participate in the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise due to the lack of wheelchair accessibility on board. However, they can explore alternative viewing options on land to enjoy the festival.
Is Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Included in the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included in the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise. Participants are responsible for their own transportation arrangements to and from the starting location at Prinsengracht 375.
What Is the Maximum Number of Participants Allowed on the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise?
The maximum number of participants allowed on the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise is 10 people. However, it’s important to note that there is no restroom available onboard the boat.
How Much Does the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise Cost per Person?
The cost for the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise is $309.07 per group of up to 10 people. It offers a unique and immersive experience to view spectacular light sculptures. The best time to go is when the festival is taking place.
The Sum Up
Experience the magic of Amsterdam’s light sculptures on the enchanting Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Cruise.
This 1.5-hour tour takes you through the picturesque canals, offering a unique perspective of the city’s famous landmarks.
With a knowledgeable guide, heated seats, and complimentary drinks and snacks, this private tour is perfect for small groups or families.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be captivated by the beauty of Amsterdam in a whole new light.
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