Discover Amsterdam’s Canals: Relaxing Open Boat Cruise Adventure!

Exploring Amsterdam by water is often regarded as one of the best ways to see the city’s picturesque scenery and historic charm. This particular canal cruise on an open electric boat promises a laid-back, scenic journey through the city’s famed waterways. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, multiple travelers have shared their experiences, giving us a clear picture of what makes it worth considering—and what to watch out for.

What we love about this cruise is the affordable price point of just under $23 per person, the informative guides, and the chance to enjoy drinks like wine, beer, coffee, or soft drinks as you glide past iconic sights. The flexible scheduling with numerous departures is also a big plus, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary. That said, one of the main considerations is the somewhat inconsistent communication from the operator, as at least one guest reported arriving to find no one there.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic overview of Amsterdam’s waterways without the fuss of larger tour boats or rigid schedules. If you enjoy authentic, small-group adventures with a local guide, this could be a perfect fit. Now, let’s dive into what makes this cruise special—and what might make you think twice.

Good To Know

• Affordable price with drinks included, offering good value for a short city water tour
• Small open electric boat provides a more intimate and open-air experience
• Informative live commentary enhances the sightseeing with local insights
• Flexible departure times allow for easy planning around your schedule
• Potential communication issues as noted by a reviewer, so be sure to confirm details ahead of time
• Ideal for relaxed sightseeing and those wanting a different perspective of Amsterdam from the water

An Overview of the Experience

This 1-hour canal cruise, operated by Boat Amsterdam, offers a gentle introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways. The tour departs from a central location—Amstel 51F, right in front of the Hermitage Museum—making it accessible whether you’re staying in the city center or nearby public transportation.

The boat itself is an open electric vessel, meaning you’ll feel the breeze and see the sights from a close-up vantage point, perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The use of electric power means a quieter, more eco-friendly ride compared to traditional motorboats—something we appreciate for its environmental consideration.

The live commentary during the tour is a highlight, with guides sharing insights about Amsterdam’s landmarks, hidden gems, and some fun facts. One reviewer praised their guide, Sheba, for being very informative, which adds a layer of authenticity and local knowledge that elevates the experience beyond just floating on water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Amstel 51F in front of the Hermitage Museum
The tour begins here, a location conveniently near major attractions and public transit routes. Once onboard, you’ll set off into the canals, leaving behind the busy streets and entering a calmer, scenic world.

While the tour doesn’t include multiple stops, the route covers some of the most photogenic areas of the city’s canal network. As you glide past historic buildings, quaint bridges, and vibrant houseboats, you’ll get a fresh perspective on Amsterdam’s famous architecture and waterways.

What makes this worth it?
The focus is on relaxation and visual enjoyment. The electric boat’s open design allows plenty of space for unobstructed views and photography. Plus, the included drinks—ranging from beer and wine to soft drinks and coffee—are served during the ride, turning it into both a sightseeing and social experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler expressed frustration over poor communication from the operator, noting they arrived at the meeting point to find no one there and couldn’t reach anyone by phone. This highlights the importance of confirming your booking and possibly arriving a bit early, especially if you’re staying far away.

On the positive side, a guest from a few years ago described their experience as “such an interesting city” viewed from the canals, emphasizing how the small group and informative guide made the trip memorable. They also appreciated the driver’s skill and the guide’s commentary, which added a friendly and informative touch.

Another reviewer noted the value for money, especially given the price includes drinks and the short duration makes it an easy addition to a busy sightseeing day.

Value Analysis: Is It Worth the Price?

At around $23, this cruise offers good value, particularly because drinks are included, and the experience is intimate, with a small open boat. For travelers seeking a relaxed, guided overview of Amsterdam’s canals without the crowds of larger boats, this is a compelling option.

However, the short duration of approximately 1 hour means it’s more of an overview rather than an in-depth exploration. This makes it ideal for those who want a quick scenic escape or a fun break from walking tours. If you’re looking for a more extensive cruise or a luxury experience, this might feel a bit limited.

The flexibility with departure times is a clear advantage, allowing travelers to fit the cruise into their day without stress. Plus, the eco-friendly electric boat adds an element of environmental consciousness that many modern travelers appreciate.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Departure Point and Accessibility

Starting at Amstel 51F, right in front of the Hermitage Museum, the location is well-placed near public transit options and central to Amsterdam’s main sights. The nearby public transportation makes it convenient, especially if you’re coming from different parts of the city.

The Boat and Atmosphere

The small open electric boat is quite different from larger canal cruise vessels. Its open-air design allows you to feel the breeze and see the city from a more personal perspective. This setup is perfect for photography and creating a relaxed atmosphere—ideal for casual sightseeing or a romantic outing.

The Guide and Commentary

Having a live guide is a boon, offering insights and stories about the city’s landmarks, history, and some lesser-known spots. One reviewer was particularly complimentary of Sheba, who apparently knew her stuff and kept the commentary engaging.

Drinks and Social Element

The included drinks—beer, wine, soft drinks, and coffee—add to the laid-back vibe. You can sip as you take in the views, making it more of a social outing than a purely educational tour. It’s a nice touch that makes the experience feel more special without extra cost.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Given the small boat size, expect a more intimate group compared to the typical large canal cruise. This is perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment, or for those wanting to avoid the noise and crowds of bigger tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick, scenic overview of Amsterdam’s canals. It’s also perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed experience with friendly guides and included drinks.

If you’re after a more immersive or comprehensive tour, or if you’re concerned about the potential communication hiccup, you might want to explore some of the other options listed in the similar experiences or people-also-booked sections.

The Sum Up

This Amsterdam canal cruise on a small open electric boat offers a laid-back, scenic way to see the city from its waterways. Its affordable price, included drinks, and intimate setting make it a compelling choice for many travelers looking for a relaxed sightseeing experience.

While the short duration and occasional communication issues might be drawbacks, the overall value and unique perspective make this cruise appealing—especially for those who prioritize guides with local knowledge and eco-conscious travel.

If you’re after a fun, casual, and intimate water tour with friendly guides and the chance to relax with a drink in hand, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially suitable if you’re visiting Amsterdam for a short stay and want a quick yet charming way to see the city’s famous canals.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but scenic overview of Amsterdam’s canals.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Amstel 51F, right in front of the Hermitage Museum.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the experience includes a selection of drinks such as beer, wine, soft drinks, and coffee.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, check for specific mobility needs if relevant.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there multiple departure times?
Yes, numerous departures are available, allowing you to choose a time that fits your schedule.

What should I expect from the guides?
Guides provide live commentary with insights into the landmarks and hidden gems along the route; reviews praise guides like Sheba for their knowledge.

Is the boat open-air?
Yes, the boat is an open electric vessel, providing fresh air and unobstructed views.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online, with most bookings made around 22 days in advance on average.

To sum it up, this small-group Amsterdam canal cruise offers an affordable, relaxing, and insightful way to explore the city’s waterways. It’s ideal for those seeking a casual, scenic escape with the bonus of included drinks and friendly guides. Just be sure to confirm your booking and arrive early to avoid any communication surprises.