Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour, All Inclusive

Taking a boat cruise through Amsterdam’s canals is a classic activity, but this particular tour offers a charming twist. The Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour, All Inclusive combines local storytelling, scenic waterways, and tasty treats into a compact, one-hour voyage that feels both relaxed and engaging. With unlimited drinks, real Dutch cheese, and the eco-friendly comfort of a 100% electric boat, this experience promises a laid-back way to soak in the city’s secret corners.

We love that it’s a small, intimate tour—perfect for those who want a personal touch—and that it navigates hidden canals only accessible by small boats. The knowledgeable guides, the delicious cheese, and the eco-conscious approach all stand out as key highlights. That said, a potential consideration is that the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, and there’s no onboard toilet, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with these details. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, fun way to enjoy Amsterdams’ sights with some local flavor thrown in—ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate a cozy vibe.

Good To Know

• Intimate 1-hour cruise through lesser-known, narrow canals
• Unlimited drinks including beer, wine, and soft drinks, plus an optional premium cocktail
• Authentic Dutch cheese served as a snack during the ride
• Eco-friendly, silent electric boat offering a smooth, sustainable cruise
• Engaging local guides sharing stories and insights about Amsterdam
• Pet-friendly environment for travelers wishing to include furry friends

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Cheese & Drinks Guided Boat Tour offers a blend of sightseeing, cultural storytelling, and culinary delights—all in just 60 minutes. The tour begins at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 226, next to the Bulldog Hotel, where you’ll meet friendly staff in red shirts ready to guide you aboard the sleek, fully electric vessel. The boat itself is designed to glide quietly through the canals, providing unobstructed views and a peaceful ambiance.

The Itinerary: Off the Beaten Path

While the tour’s route covers some well-known landmarks—like Amsterdam Centraal Station and Herengracht—the focus is on exploring hidden corners of the city inaccessible by larger boats. Stops at NEMO Science Museum, Het Scheepvaartmuseum, Stopera, and the Skinny Bridge give you glimpses of Amsterdam’s diverse architectural styles and vibrant neighborhoods.

As you cruise along, your guide will point out interesting sights, but the real charm lies in the informal stories about the city’s character and history. One reviewer noted, “The captain and bartender are super nice,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere that makes this tour feel like a local’s secret outing rather than a tourist trap.

What You’ll Experience Aboard

Once onboard, you’ll settle into cushioned seating with panoramic views of the canals. The live guide shares stories, often personalized based on the group. For instance, guests mentioned Olaf and Ties as attentive, enthusiastic guides who keep the commentary lively and engaging.

The unlimited drinks are a major attraction—guests can choose from beer, wine, or soft drinks, with the option for a premium cocktail if you opt for the VIP package. Reviewers raved about the quality, with one saying, “The drinks are really nice,” which adds to the relaxed, social vibe.

Food: Dutch Cheese as a Snack

The real Dutch cheese served during the cruise is more than just a snack; it’s a taste of local tradition, paired nicely with the drinks. While some reviews mention that the cheese is a simple snack, it complements the experience well, especially alongside the drinks and lively conversation.

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The Eco-Friendly Touch

The 100% electric boat is a notable aspect of this tour. It ensures quiet, emissions-free cruising, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Guests also appreciated the smooth ride, as one reviewer remarked on the “beautiful cruise” and “nice drinks,” highlighting how the boat’s quiet operation enhances the overall experience.

Deep Dive: The Itinerary & Highlights

Starting Point & Orientation

Your journey begins at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 226, a convenient central location next to the historic Bulldog Hotel. From here, the boat departs on a route that takes you through less crowded, narrow canals—a feature many reviews appreciated, as it offers a more private glimpse of the city.

Navigating Narrow Canals & Hidden Gems

The tour’s strength is in exploring canals only accessible by small boats. Passing through these tight waterways offers a perspective often missed on larger sightseeing cruises. Guests noted the scenic views of historic buildings, charming bridges, and secret spots that only locals know.

Highlight Stops & Sights

Some of the key points along the route include:

• Oude Kerk: The oldest church in Amsterdam, providing a historic backdrop.
• Amsterdam Centraal Station: A striking hub of activity and architecture.
• Eastern Docklands: Modern waterfront neighborhoods contrasting with historic districts.
• NEMO Science Museum and Het Scheepvaartmuseum: Showcasing the city’s maritime and scientific heritage.
• Stopera and Herengracht: Important cultural and residential areas.
• Skinny Bridge and Munttoren: Iconic landmarks with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Oudezijds Voorburgwal (return): The tour ends where it began, completing a circular, immersive experience.

The Atmosphere & Group Dynamic

The laid-back vibe of the tour makes it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. The cushioned seating and easygoing pace invite conversation and relaxation. Guests have noted the guides’ personable approach, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and engaged.

What’s Included & What To Consider

Included in the Price

• 60-Minute Canal Cruise: A compact but comprehensive journey through the city’s lesser-known waterways.
• Real Dutch Cheese: Tasty local snack to enjoy during the cruise.
• Three Drinks: Options include beer, wine, or soft drinks, with an upgrade to a premium cocktail available.
• Live Guide: Providing insights and stories about Amsterdam’s sights and history.
• Experienced Captain: Ensuring a safe, smooth ride.
• Comfortable Seating & Unobstructed Views: Designed for a relaxed experience.
• Eco-Friendly Electric Boat: Sustainable cruising for environmentally aware travelers.
• Pet-Friendly: Bringing your furry friends along is perfectly fine.

Not Included

• Wheelchair Accessibility: Sadly, the boat isn’t suited for wheelchair users.
• No Onboard Toilet: Be prepared for a short trip with no toilet facilities onboard.

Practical Tips

Guests should arrive at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, near the waterside, and be prepared for a step into the boat, with staff ready to assist. The tour takes place rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is recommended. Also, keep in mind that the cheese provided is a snack, not a full meal, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

The feedback paints a lively picture of the tour’s strengths. A guest from France, Améthyste, highlighted the friendly guides and appreciated the interesting stories, though they suggested a microphone for better hearing—something you might find helpful if your group gets large.

Hannah from the UK called it “by far the best” of her three Amsterdam boat trips, praising the quality of the drinks and the cheese. She also mentioned the enthusiasm of guides Olaf and Ties, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Another traveler from Germany expressed how “great team, beautiful cruise, nice drinks and tasty cheese” made for “very fun and interesting” entertainment. The common theme is that the guides’ friendliness and local stories elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Conversely, a less positive review pointed out a 40-minute delay and some confusion regarding the VIP package, which seems to be an optional upgrade rather than an essential addition. This highlights the importance of clarifying what’s included at booking, especially around the cheese and drinks options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to experience the city’s canals. It’s especially suited for those who love local stories, delicious snacks, and a friendly atmosphere. The all-inclusive drinks and pet-friendly nature make it a comfortable choice for small groups or couples seeking a casual, fun outing.

While it’s not wheelchair accessible and doesn’t include onboard toilets, the eco-friendly electric boat and hidden canal routes make up for these minor limitations. It provides great value for money, especially given the quality of drinks, cheese, and personalized guidance.

If you’re after a short, scenic escape with a local touch, this tour is a perfect pick. It’s a delightful way to add some authentic charm to your Amsterdam visit without overdoing it on time or cost.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts exactly 60 minutes, making it a quick but memorable sightseeing experience.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, next to the Bulldog Hotel, where staff in red shirts will assist you.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a 1-hour boat cruise, three drinks (beer, wine, or soft drinks), real Dutch cheese, and a live guide.

Are drinks unlimited?
You get three drinks included in the ticket price. If you upgrade to the VIP package, you can enjoy a premium cocktail.

Is the boat suitable for pets?
Yes, pets are welcome onboard, making it a good activity for travelers with furry friends.

Can I join if I’m in a wheelchair?
No, the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Is there a toilet onboard?
No, there is no toilet on the boat, so plan accordingly.

What if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress appropriately or bring an umbrella if needed.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour clearly states what’s included; upgrades like the VIP package are optional.

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

To sum it up, this Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour hits a sweet spot for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed experience. The combination of scenic, lesser-known canals, local stories, and delicious Dutch cheese makes it a memorable way to enjoy Amsterdam’s charm—without breaking the bank. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers a cozy, fun, and eco-conscious way to see the city from a different perspective.

You can check if your dates are available here: