Amsterdam Luxury Open Boat Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

If you’re headed to Amsterdam and want to see the city from its iconic waterways, this luxury open boat canal cruise offers a relaxing and indulgent way to soak in the sights. While we haven’t personally boarded this specific cruise, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of what to expect—an experience blending historic charm, modern style, and a touch of leisure.

What we love most about this tour? First, the unlimited drinks with a generous selection of beer, wine, and soft drinks makes for a laid-back vibe. Second, the informative live commentary means you’ll get interesting stories about the city’s landmarks. Lastly, the stunning views of Amsterdam’s architecture—from 17th-century buildings to contemporary structures—are truly hard to beat.

One potential downside? The limited duration of just one hour might leave some travelers wanting more, especially those eager to explore beyond the core sights. However, this quick yet comprehensive jaunt is ideal for those with limited time or looking for a relaxed intro to the city’s waterways.

This tour is perfect for adults who enjoy a casual, social experience with good company and good drinks. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Amsterdam’s beauty without the fuss.

Good To Know

• Relaxed, scenic cruise ideal for a quick overview of Amsterdam’s main waterways
• Unlimited drinks including beer, wine, and soft drinks for a casual, social atmosphere
• Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary on the city’s landmarks
• Accessible location easily reachable near public transportation
• Focused on adult guests; large bachelor or birthday groups not permitted
• Affordable price point offers good value considering the included drinks and commentary

A Closer Look at the Amsterdam Canal Cruise Experience

When considering this cruise, the first thing that catches your eye is the price point—around $39.27 per person for a 1-hour journey. That’s a reasonable cost for a relaxing, guided boat ride with unlimited drinks, especially in a city where canal cruises often come with extra charges or limited inclusions. Given that the tour is booked about nine days in advance on average, it suggests a steady demand, likely because of its attractive mix of value and scenery.

The Itinerary and Viewpoints

The route is designed to showcase a mix of Amsterdam’s most picturesque landmarks and interesting neighborhoods. The tour begins with an explanation of why the city’s houses are tilted—an intriguing detail about the city’s foundation on marshlands, which required buildings to be supported by wooden poles. This architectural quirk is a nice touch to start the experience.

Next, you’ll pass the Southern Church, built between 1603-1611 by Hendrick de Keyser. This historic church not only adds to the city’s skyline but also highlights the early 17th-century Dutch religious architecture. The tour then moves towards the Stopera, a modern cultural hub combining the city hall and opera house, offering a contrast to the historical sights.

One of the highlights is sailing under the Thorbecke Bridge and catching the famous 7 Bridges—if you’re lucky, with no other boats blocking your view, you’ll see a striking row of identical stone bridges. These seven arched structures are a favorite among photographers and provide a quintessential Amsterdam moment.

Further along, the boat cruises past the Golden Bend of the Herengracht, a stretch renowned for its opulent mansions and luxurious history. It’s a snapshot of the city’s former wealth and prestige. The route wraps up along the Amstel River, where you’ll enjoy views that have sustained the city for centuries.

The Experience Onboard

Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides who share entertaining insights into each stop. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was “nice, funny, and very informative,” adding that the commentary also included tips for places to eat. These personal touches help elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to an engaging city tour.

The electric boat itself is a plus for environmentally conscious travelers, offering a noise-free and emission-free cruise. The open boat design ensures you get unobstructed views, perfect for snapping photos or simply enjoying the scenery.

Drinks and Atmosphere

The unlimited drinks are a key feature here. Reviewers highlight how attentive the staff was in keeping glasses topped up—one even mentioned how the crew was “very attentive filling up drinks and telling us about the sights.” The selection includes beer, wine, and prosecco, making it a versatile option for most adult tastes.

However, some noted that liquors and cocktails are not included, which might be a consideration if you’re expecting a full bar experience. Still, for the price, the selection covers the essentials for a light, enjoyable cruise.

Group Size and Booking

The tour caps at 30 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with comfort. Large bachelor or birthday groups are not allowed, likely to keep the experience more intimate and relaxed. Booking well in advance—about nine days on average—ensures securing a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Practical Details

Starting at the Government of Amsterdam, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access from different parts of the city. The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it perfect for a quick break or a pre-dinner activity. The flexible cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

From Sylvie_L: “The guide was nice and funny and very informative. I recommend this boat tour. Explained the story of Amsterdam and gave good recommendations of places to eat.” This highlights the quality of commentary and local tips.

Ellen_T appreciated the attentive staff and great value for money, emphasizing how the crew kept drinks flowing and shared interesting facts about the sights.

Kirby_S’s review underscores the guides Anton and Tim, calling them “amazing” and praising the value of the unlimited drinks package. This suggests that the crew’s friendliness and knowledge greatly enhance the experience.

On the flip side, Joy_O found it “dry,” noting that the tour might not be engaging enough for those expecting a more lively or interactive experience. She pointed out that the unlimited drinks only include beer, wine, and prosecco, which is good to know upfront.

Why We Think This Tour Is Worth It

This cruise offers a relaxing, scenic, and informative way to see some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights without the hassle of navigating busy streets or crowded tour buses. The electric boat ensures a quiet ride, perfect for conversations and sightseeing.

The unlimited drinks add a social element, especially if you’re traveling with friends or want a leisurely way to toast to your trip. The guided commentary makes it more than just a boat ride; it’s an opportunity to learn about the city’s architecture, history, and culture in a laid-back setting.

While the duration of just an hour might seem short, it’s a good introduction—especially if you plan to explore more of Amsterdam’s museums, neighborhoods, or nightlife afterward. The price point is reasonable considering the inclusions, making it a sound choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking quality over quantity.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise appeals most to adults seeking a relaxing, social activity that combines sightseeing with a casual drink. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick overview of Amsterdam’s canals and landmarks, especially those who appreciate good commentary and friendly staff.

Travelers with limited time in the city will find this a practical way to tick off some sights while enjoying a beverage in a scenic setting. It’s also a good choice for groups of friends or couples wanting a stress-free, fun activity.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, this tour is for 18+ travelers, mainly because of the alcohol included in the package.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but scenic outing.

Where do I meet the tour?
The starting point is at the Government of Amsterdam, near public transportation, which makes it easy to reach.

Are large groups allowed?
Large bachelor and birthday groups are not permitted to ensure a comfortable atmosphere for all guests.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are included. Liquors and cocktails are not part of the package.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the boat electric?
Yes, the cruise is powered by a 100% electric engine, making it environmentally friendly and quiet.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join, but it’s ideally suited for those who enjoy social settings with drinks and relaxed sightseeing.

The Amsterdam Luxury Open Boat Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks offers a charming, laid-back way to experience the city’s waterways. For a reasonable price, you get a guided tour, unlimited drinks, and beautiful views—all on a quiet, eco-friendly boat.

It’s perfect for those wanting an easy, social introduction to Amsterdam or couples looking for a cozy activity. While some may wish for a longer or more interactive experience, the combination of scenery, commentary, and beverages makes this cruise a compelling choice for many travelers.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy Amsterdam’s canals, this tour delivers on those fronts, with enough reviews and positive feedback to suggest you’ll leave with a smile on your face—and maybe a few new friends.