Amsterdam Private Dinner Cruise incl Drinks & 3-course Dinner 3hr

An Elegant Night on Amsterdam’s Canals: Private Dinner Cruise Review

If you’re dreaming of a special evening in Amsterdam, a private dinner cruise offers an unbeatable mix of exclusivity, scenic beauty, and gourmet dining. While many canal tours are crowded and rushed, this experience promises a more intimate way to enjoy the city’s waterways—without the noise or hustle—delivered in a sleek, private setting.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines personalized service with incredible views of iconic landmarks, all while relaxing on your own saloon boat. The fact that drinks are included, and you can choose from an à la carte menu, means there’s no need for additional reservations or planning after booking. Plus, passing by landmarks like the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum at night makes for a memorable sightseeing experience.

The only thing to consider is the price—at nearly $600 per person, this isn’t a casual outing. But for couples celebrating a special occasion or groups seeking a luxurious, romantic evening, the value is undeniable. This tour suits travelers who want to elevate their Amsterdam visit with a unique, personalized experience that blends sightseeing, fine dining, and nightlife—all on the water.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Use of a private saloon boat ensures privacy and comfort.
• Gourmet Dinner & Drinks included, with a 3-course meal and alcoholic beverages.
• Nighttime Canal Views showcase Amsterdam’s most famous sights illuminated after dark.
• Skip the Crowds and enjoy a tranquil, personalized experience away from typical tourist groups.
• Ideal for Celebrations like anniversaries, romantic getaways, or special gatherings.
• Convenient & Hassle-Free with mobile tickets and easy booking in advance.

Why You’ll Love This Private Dinner Cruise

This experience stands out because it offers a personalized way to see Amsterdam with the comfort of your own private boat. Imagine drifting through the city’s historic canals, your dinner served right on deck, with the city lights creating a magical backdrop. It’s a fantastic alternative to communal boat tours, especially if you prefer intimacy or are celebrating a special event.

The tour is also praised for the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer highlighted the “outstanding and gracious” hosts, Robert and Mona, who made the evening feel warm and personal. Another mentioned how the boat, called Ritz, was “beautiful,” and the dinner from Nim was “delicious,” making for a seamless, enjoyable evening.

The inclusion of drinks and a multi-course meal means you’ll avoid the need for extra reservations or navigating restaurant lines after your cruise. You simply relax, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in fine food and drink while passing landmarks like the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and the vibrant Jordaan neighborhood.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

Meeting and Departure

The cruise begins at Oosterdokskade 8, a central and accessible location near public transit. From here, you’ll hop onto your private saloon boat, which is exclusively yours for the 3-hour journey. Many reviews note the easy booking process and clear instructions, making the start stress-free.

The Itinerary and Sights

While the cruise is primarily about the experience on the water, the route is thoughtfully curated to showcase the city’s most famous sights:

• Houseboat Museum: Passing by this unique cargo ship-turned-home from 1914 gives insight into Amsterdam’s maritime history.
• Anne Frank House: Gliding past the historic house where Anne Frank hid offers an emotional perspective on the city’s past.
• Jordaan Neighborhood: Known for its trendy, artsy vibe, this area’s charming buildings and narrow streets add to the scenic backdrop.
• Rijksmuseum: The world-famous museum’s impressive facade is illuminated beautifully at night, making for a memorable view.
• Heineken Experience & Herengracht: Passing by the former brewery and the posh Herengracht highlights Amsterdam’s rich brewing history and wealthiest neighborhoods.
• The Amstel River: Watching the largest locks in the city demonstrates the engineering behind Amsterdam’s waterways.
• Red Light District & Seven Bridges Viewpoint: The lively, historic district and the picturesque series of seven bridges, especially lit up after sunset, make for stunning photos.
• Montelbaanstoren & Dutch National Opera: These historic towers and iconic cultural venues add to the city’s artistic and defensive history.
• Dancing Houses & Old Town: The iconic, crooked buildings and the oldest parts of the city reveal Amsterdam’s quirky charm and long-standing history.

The Dinner Experience

The key highlight is the 3-course meal, thoughtfully prepared and served on your boat. Reviewer feedback confirms the food quality is high, with one mentioning the dinner from Nim as “delicious.” Drinks, including alcoholic options, are already included, so you can toast to the evening without extra fuss.

Service is attentive, with hosts like Mona and Robert receiving praise for their graciousness. Guests also appreciated the smooth planning process, with one reviewer noting that everything went “very smoothly.”

The Atmosphere and Views

The ambiance during the cruise is tranquil and intimate, perfect for relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing. Since the boat is private, you’re free from the noise and crowding typical of larger group tours, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or special celebrations.

The nighttime setting adds a romantic and magical touch—seeing Amsterdam’s bridges and landmarks illuminated creates a picture-perfect backdrop. As one reviewer noted, the seven bridges are especially scenic when lit up after sunset, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $589.89 per person might seem high at first glance, but considering the exclusivity, gourmet meal, drinks, and personalized service, it offers great value for a special occasion. Compared to typical canal tours, you’re paying for an intimate, luxury experience that combines sightseeing with fine dining.

The tour’s duration of around 3 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to soak in the sights and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Booking on average 73 days in advance suggests high demand, especially during peak seasons or for special celebrations.

Accessibility and Convenience

The meeting point is centrally located and accessible via public transportation, making it easy to reach. The mobile ticket system adds convenience, allowing you to manage your booking digitally.

Cancellation and Flexibility

The flexible free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—means you can plan with some peace of mind. If your plans change, you can cancel and get a full refund, provided you do so within the window.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This dinner cruise is perfect for travelers looking to celebrate a milestone, such as an anniversary or birthday, in style. It’s also ideal for couples seeking a romantic night or small groups who want an exclusive experience away from the crowds. If you appreciate good food, beautiful scenery, and personalized service, this cruise will check all the boxes.

However, those on a tight budget or seeking a quick, casual tour might find it a bit pricey. It’s best suited for those willing to splurge a little for a memorable, luxury outing in one of Europe’s most picturesque cities.

Final Thoughts

This private dinner cruise offers a refined way to see Amsterdam’s waterways, combining scenic views with gourmet dining and exclusivity. The knowledgeable guides, stunning nighttime vistas, and attentive service create an experience that’s both relaxing and memorable. It’s an excellent choice for special occasions or anyone wanting to add a touch of elegance to their Amsterdam visit.

While the price is on the higher side, the value lies in the personalized, intimate ambiance, and the chance to enjoy the city from a unique perspective. If you’re after a memorable, beautifully curated evening, this cruise is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this experience truly private?
Yes, the cruise is exclusive to your group, ensuring a private and relaxed environment.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the use of your own saloon boat, a three-course dinner, and alcoholic drinks—no need for extra reservations.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the sights, dine, and unwind.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Oosterdokskade 8 and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. For specific accessibility needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for special celebrations?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight it as an ideal way to celebrate anniversaries or special milestones with a romantic and private setting.