Groningen: 2-hour Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks – A Balanced Look

If you’re after a fun, relaxed way to enjoy Groningen’s scenic canals while sipping on unlimited drinks, this 2-hour booze cruise might just be your perfect match. We’ve taken a close look at this experience to help you decide if it fits your travel style.
What makes it appealing? First, the casual, party-like atmosphere combines the comfort of a terrace with the energy of a lively gathering. Second, the unlimited drinks—including beer, wine, and soft drinks—are a definite highlight for those looking to unwind with friends or meet new people. Lastly, the friendly staff and scenic routes consistently receive praise for creating a welcoming vibe.
Of course, there’s a small caveat—it’s an 18+ experience, so families traveling with children will need to look elsewhere. Also, some might prefer additional snacks to complement their drinks, which are payable separately. This tour is best suited for adults seeking a social, carefree cruise with good value.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know

- Social atmosphere: Combines terrace vibes with a party spirit.
- Unlimited drinks: Beer, wine, and soft drinks included—great for relaxed socializing.
- Scenic views: Unique perspectives of Groningen from the water.
- Friendly staff: Guides and bartenders are consistently praised for their helpfulness.
- Weather adaptability: Open roof for sunny days; covered for rain.
- Limited availability: Book early—spots are capped at 75 participants.
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An Authentic 2-Hour Canal Party in Groningen
We love the balance this cruise strikes between laid-back relaxation and lively fun. It’s not a formal sightseeing tour but rather a social gathering on the water, perfect for groups, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a taste of Groningen’s vibrant summer energy.
The departure point is conveniently located at Groningen’s main station, just to the left of the bridge leading toward the Groninger Museum. The hosts, including friendly guides like Maaike, Boas, and Maryn, make an effort to create a welcoming environment, often joking with guests and ensuring everyone feels included.
The boat itself is equipped with a cabriolet roof, which makes it flexible for both sunny and rainy days. During warm weather, the open roof offers unobstructed views and a breezy experience, while a covered option ensures comfort when the weather isn’t cooperating. The boat’s lighting, music, and lively energy mix terrace comfort with party vibes, making it ideal for socializing.
What to Expect on the Cruise
Once on board, the atmosphere quickly picks up. The music is carefully curated to maintain a good vibe, with upbeat tunes that encourage dancing or just relaxed chatting. Reviewers mention that the music is among the best features—creating a festive backdrop without overwhelming conversation.
Unlimited drinks are available throughout the cruise—mainly Heineken beer, wine, and soft drinks. Guests can indulge without worries about running out, which adds value when considering the ticket price of $41. A lot of reviewers highlight the quality of the drinks and how the bar staff keep the party flowing smoothly.
The scenic route takes you through Groningen’s canals, offering views of historic buildings, lively neighborhoods, and the city’s charming waterfront. This perspective offers a different experience from walking tours or land-based explorations. Guests consistently note the unique views and how the boat provides a relaxed way to see the city from a fresh angle.
Toilet facilities onboard are a practical plus, especially on a two-hour cruise. For sunny days, the open roof enhances the experience, while in rain, the covered area keeps the mood light and comfortable.
The Social Vibe and Guest Experience
What makes this cruise special, beyond the views and drinks, is the friendly, upbeat crew. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Maaike and Boas go out of their way to ensure everyone is having a good time. The cozy atmosphere often results in meeting new friends or simply enjoying the company of others.
Many guests mention how the staff makes the cruise feel like a celebration. The lighting, music, and bar setup all contribute to a festive vibe that feels more like a party than a traditional sightseeing tour.
Reviewers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff, noting they are super friendly, attentive, and eager to enhance the experience. This personal touch really elevates the cruise from just another boat ride to a memorable social event.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Value of this Experience
At $41 per person, this cruise offers considerable value for an all-inclusive, two-hour social outing. When you consider the generous unlimited drinks, friendly environment, and scenic backdrop, it’s a strong choice for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with socializing.
Compared to other tours that might charge extra for drinks or lack the vibrant atmosphere, this experience stands out. Many reviews praise the quality of the drinks and the welcoming crew, both of which contribute to a sense of great value for the price.
It’s worth noting that snacks aren’t included, so if you’re hungry, you’ll want to buy something at the bar or bring your own (though luggage and large bags are not permitted onboard). The focus here is on the drinks and the vibe, making it more suitable for those who enjoy casual, drink-oriented outings.
Practical Details and Tips

- Departure point is at Groningen’s main station, with clear signage and a beach flag to help you find the boat easily.
- Booking early is advised, as spots are limited to 75 people.
- Weather considerations: Check the forecast! The open roof is a highlight in good weather, but the covered area ensures comfort if rain threatens.
- Minimum age is 18+, so it’s not suitable for families or younger travelers.
- Duration: Exactly 2 hours—so plan your day with this in mind.
- No large bags or food allowed onboard, so pack light and plan accordingly.
- Cancelation is flexible—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Authentic Insights from Reviews
Reviewers frequently mention the super friendly staff—not just in service but also in creating a fun environment. One guest described the boat as “really cozy,” emphasizing the relaxed vibe. Guests like Chris also appreciated that the staff went out of their way to make sure everyone had a good time, with some even calling out specific crew members like Maaike and Boas.
The drinks get high praise, especially the Heineken tap, which many say is “top.” The music is described as “the best” by some reviewers, with a playlist that hits the right balance of energetic and chill.
The scenic route is another highlight, offering a different perspective of Groningen’s picturesque waterways—something that adds a special touch beyond just drinking and socializing.
The Sum Up: Is This Experience Worth It?

For travelers wanting a fun, easygoing way to enjoy Groningen, this booze cruise offers great value. It pairs scenic canal views with unlimited drinks and a lively, social atmosphere—perfect for groups or solo travelers looking to mingle. The flexible weather setup and friendly staff mean you’ll always feel comfortable, and the two hours pass quickly when you’re having a good time.
If you’re in town during summer, or just looking for a relaxed, lively afternoon or evening on the water, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s an experience that combines sightseeing with social energy, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a mini celebration on Groningen’s canals.
For those who love to meet new people, enjoy good drinks, and want a memorable way to see the city, this tour will be a fantastic choice.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, soft drinks are included and unlimited, so non-drinkers can still enjoy the cruise without alcohol.
What is included in the ticket price?
You get a 2-hour boat tour, unlimited Heineken beer, wine, and soft drinks, access to the toilet, and the open or closed roof depending on the weather.
Can I bring snacks or food onboard?
Snacks are not included and food is not allowed to be brought onto the boat, but you can purchase snacks separately at the bar.
What if it rains?
The boat has a covered roof, so you can still enjoy the cruise without worrying about the weather.
How many people can join?
Up to 75 guests can be on the boat, making it ideal for larger groups or packed weekends.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, you must be 18 or older to participate.
In summary, this Groningen booze cruise is a lively, sociable way to enjoy the city’s canals with excellent value, friendly staff, and a fun atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with a good party and a chance to meet new people—all on the water.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Boat Tours in Groningen Netherlands
More Tour Reviews in Groningen Netherlands
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