Amsterdam Travel Blog

9 Best Canal Boat Tours In Amsterdam & Your Questions Answered! [2024]

Amsterdam has many canal cruises, but which is best for you? Which one is the most worth taking? No one tour caters to all. I’ve taken some of the best canal tours and will share how to pick the best one for yourself, professional tips, and answer all your questions.

Table of Contents

Which Canal Tours to Take?

This post provides detailed information to help you choose the best canal trip. Click here if you wish to see the best boat tours in Amsterdam right away .

Most Asked Questions When Booking A Canal Tour

You might have some questions about Amsterdam canal tours; I have listed them here.

Is It Worth Doing A Canal Cruise In Amsterdam?

Yes, especially if you visit Amsterdam for the first time.

Taking the canal tours allows you to see the historical and beautiful canal houses, understand Amsterdam’s history, and experience the Dutch vibe on a boat.

You might hear some people saying it is not worth it, but they probably didn’t pick the most suitable tour for themselves and didn’t join a good rating tour. That is why I have this post, so you have the best canal tour experience.

Is It Necessary To Book The Tickets In Advance?

Yes, especially if you take small boat tours or evening dinner cruises . Why?

You won’t find ticket offices selling small boat tours; most only sell big ones. That is why you need to book in advance. In addition, the tours I recommended in this post are top-rated, so be sure to book them in advance.

For dinner cruises, there’s only one boat per evening. Spots are limited!

Do Amsterdam Canal Boats Have Bathrooms?

There’s a toilet on board for big boats, but I advise you to use the bathroom before taking the tour. (You can find the public toilets in Amsterdam here)

For small boats, unfortunately, no restrooms!

How Long Is Amsterdam Canal Ride?

In general, it takes around 60 to 90 minutes. Some tours, like dinner and evening cruises, can take about 3 hours.

Where Do Canal Cruises Leave From In Amsterdam?

There are three places: Damrak, close to Amsterdam Central Station; Near Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum.

Most tours depart from Damrak, but I recommend boat tours from Anne Frank House and canal tours from Rijksmuseum since it’s less busy, and you can rest more on the boat after visiting the nearby attractions.

Is the Amsterdam Canal Cruise Better At Night Or Day?

It depends on personal preference.

A day cruise offers better visibility, and the natural light during the day provides excellent lighting conditions for capturing the city’s beauty.

An evening canal cruise offers a romantic and enchanting atmosphere, with the city lights illuminating the canals and landmarks. It is also a good option if you want to see the sunset views in Amsterdam. It’s more relaxing, too, since fewer people are on the street than in the daytime.

Taking A Big Boat or A Small Boat Cruise In Amsterdam?

It depends on what you prefer and what you like; here are the pros and cons of taking big and small boats:

Pros And Cons Of Taking A Big Boat Canal Trip

Some benefits:

  • More affordable as more guests are on board
  • Have multiple language audio guides for the guests, great for people who need more confidence in English.
  • Have semi-open boats, which means you won’t get wet or need a raincoat when it rains. The captain closes the deck once it rains and opens it when it’s sunny.
  • The heating system is on in winter; there is no need to bring an extra coat to get on the boat.

Some disadvantages:

  • More than 80 people are on board, and the guests don’t get much interaction with the captain/guide
  • The trip is with an audio guide, not a live guide
  • The standard route might be a bit boring for some people

An excellent choice for people who see comfort as their first priority.

Pros And Cons Of Taking A Small Boat Cruise

some benefits:

  • More chances to interact with the guide as there are much fewer guests
  • Have a live guide on board
  • Some tours include drinks and snacks
  • Some tours might be canceled due to heavy rain; please check the details when reserving the spots. However, don’t worry about it from May to early September
  • Although some boats have a heating system and most provide blankets, it might still be cold for some guests.
  • It’s highly recommended to reserve before leaving for Amsterdam, as there are limited spots only.

A perfect option for people who like fun, interactive tours and want to have local experiences.

Best Canal Cruise Tours In Amsterdam

Here are the best canal cruises in Amsterdam; they are with high rating reviews, and I experienced some of them ourselves:

Cheapest 1-Hour Canal Tour In Amsterdam

Big boats are the cheapest option since more people are on the boat.

It costs EUR 18. Stromma and Lovers are the leading companies offering canal cruises in Amsterdam.

**Here is the special deal for my readers if you book with Tiqets, use the link below to get the lowest price. The link is already applied with the dicount code (CANALCRUISE10).**

Suppose you book the canal tickets together with Rijksmuseum or Heineken entrance tickets. In that case, you get the highest discount for the canal cruise!

Pro Tip When Getting On The Boat

Take the seat in the middle of the boat! It’s a bit noisy at the front since the captain is constantly on the intercom checking the traffic, and it’s smelly if you sit in the back.

Luxury And Environment-Friendly Canal Boat Tours

Friendly, knowledgeable staff made this comfortable canal cruise very enjoyable. I would recommend this tour. Irmgard_C ( read more reviews )

If you prefer a luxury boat with a maximum of 30 guests, this tour is for you.

You can sit comfortably with the cushion by taking this electric, gas-free boat. In addition, there’s a live guide introducing the landmarks in Amsterdam, so you can ask any questions you have!

A big boat trip costs EUR 18, but this tour with a much smaller group only costs EUR 22. It comes with great value and good ratings; no wonder it sells out quickly.

My Experience With This Tour

I took this tour in late November, and I loved it!

Most canal tours come with an audio guide, but this tour has a live guide, which makes it much more enjoyable for a tourist. In addition, it’s with an electric boat, so there is no lousy air, and there are only around 15 guests on that day, so the quality is excellent.

The guide was funny and interestingly shared the old Amsterdam story. If you like interaction with the guide, there’s no problem. I sat next to the guide, so I asked him many questions.

If you decide to join this tour, book the tickets in advance as it is popular. In addition, be sure to get on the boat 10 minutes before departure to get a good spot.

Their boat departs from Central Station, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum!

Fun And No Smoking Canal Tours With Food And Drinks

Can’t say enough how I recommend this tour! James did an awesome job in giving us a tour, with just enough historical information that didn’t make it boring. The food was light but tasty. Dr inks were plenty. A.must do activity! Annette_T ( Check the more reviews )

This is the best canal tour I’ve joined. It has a high rating from past guests as well.

You get to interact highly with the tour guide and ask any questions you have during the cruise. Most important of all, you get on a non-smoking electric boat!

I don’t like smoking and even hate the smell of it; this tour does not allow guests to smoke, while some other small boats only prohibit it if the guests mind.

Their boat departs from Central Station and Rijksmuseum!

Smoking allowed Canal Boat trip With Drinks

Very funny and informative boat ride; not only could you smoke/drink on the boat, but our guide, Anthony and Graham, were amazing. Anthony was a hilarious host and even rolled a customers joint for them! Which I thought was pretty good customer service; the boat itself is stocked up with drinks, and it’s electric, so you can charge your phone, etc, while on tour. Would 100% recommend it as an eccentric alternative to a regular canal cruise! Morad_A ( read more reviews )

Want to take small boats in Amsterdam but also plan to smoke and have drinks? You need a smoke-friendly boat tour !

This tour is more than just a smoke-free boat trip; the tour guides ensure you have a fun ride and see plenty of Amsterdam in a chill way!

Since it is a top-rated tour, be sure to book the tickets in advance in case it is fully booked.

Usual Boat Trip: Pedal Boat

canal cruise amsterdam orari

If you already experienced the canal cruise or want a different experience in Amsterdam, the pedal boat is for you.

Most tours come with a captain navigating the boat; this time, you can pedal the boat yourself.

You can design your own route and explore Amsterdam at your own pace. In addition, while most small tours do not allow bringing your own food, you can do that if you rent the pedal boat!

The best part is that one pedal boat can have a maximum of 4 people; it’s also an excellent choice for small groups and families!

There are two locations for the boat: Rijksmuseum and Leidseplein.

Hop-on And Hop-Off Canal Boat Ride

Amsterdam is a canal city; it is perfect to experience it by taking the hop-on and hop-off boat service.

It is ideal for people who want to enjoy a different type of transportation in Amsterdam. There are 8 stops in Amsterdam city center, so you can easily access the attractions by boat!

After Covid, only one company offers unlimited hop-on and hop-off boat service.

You can also buy a combination ticket to enjoy the Amsterdam street view by taking their sightseeing bus!

Private Canal Tours With A Tour Guide: For Small-Groups And Families

canal cruise amsterdam orari

If you travel as a family or with friends, joining a private tour with a guide, who is also your captain, is a great idea.

Why not navigate the private boat yourself? There are many private and tourist boats in Amsterdam canals; you need quite some skills or talent if you are new. Besides, with a local guide, you can fully immerse yourself in Amsterdam and enjoy the beautiful canal view like a local.

Remember to bring your own food and drinks as they are not included in the tour!

Evening Dinner Canal Cruise

After a long day traveling in Amsterdam, you should have some good food and quality time to have a perfect ending to the day! That’s why the Evening Dinner Cruise is popular!

This 2-hour tour lets you enjoy a fantastic canal evening view and symbolic buildings in Amsterdam while savoring the local three-course menu dinner.

I joined this tour with some colleagues a few years ago, the atmosphere was cozy, and it was an evening I will never forget.

Luxury Dinner Cruise

If you wish for more privacy and a quiet evening dinner, join this 3-hour long three-course dinner tour with a maximum of 16 guests only . Most importantly, a private table is guaranteed!

Romantic Private Canal Cruise For Couples

Amazing! Relaxing and informative! The tour guide was patient, knew everything about the area, and included complimentary drinks and blankets. Absolutely wonderful would definitely recommend it. Jason_G ( Read more reviews )

Want to have an unforgettable canal tour with your loved one?

This private tour is only for you and your partner, no other guests onboard. Besides, the guide can customize this 90-minute route based on your preference, giving you a special and unique canal cruise experience.

This tour is very popular from April to October; if the evening private tour is not available, try their day tour!

In Conclusion: Which Canal Tour is The Best?

Many options exist, but I like Captain Jack Canal Cruises after taking big and small boat tours.

If you prefer to take tours without drinks, join the Flagship luxury boat tour , which has a high value in terms of price!

If you wish to have a dinner canal cruise, this tour offers a great experience . This private table dinner canal tour is perfect if you want more privacy.

Want a romantic evening with your loved one? Book this romantic private tour with a customized canal route!

Want to explore Amsterdam in an unusual way? Pedal Boat is for you!

hope you enjoy this post; you can read more about Amsterdam travel tips .

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Traverse With Taylor

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canal cruise amsterdam orari

7 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam To Experience In 2024

Amsterdam is one of the places I am constantly visiting; it’s my favorite. And since I’ve visited so many times, I’ve had the opportunity to take many of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam over the past few years! In this post, I’ve rounded up the top canal boat tours that are worth your time! I hope they will help you fall in love with Amsterdam as much as I have

Taking a canal tour is the #1 thing that visitors to the Netherlands must have on their Amsterdam itinerary whether it’s your first time abroad in Amsterdam or your 30th. No matter how many times I travel to Amsterdam (and I’m low-key obsessed with it, so….a lot!), I always take a canal tour. It’s the perfect way to see the beautiful waterways and immerse yourself in the city quickly. But, I’ve taken some awful canal tours over the years (those ones RIGHT outside Central Station ) , and it is so easy to get caught up on a tour that caters only to tourists and isn’t worth your time. That’s where I come in! I’ve rounded up some of my favorite Amsterdam canal tours- from the most popular tour to the best small group tours, and even the most unique canal experiences- all with 5 stars and amazing ratings. Read on and take your pick of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam!

canal cruise amsterdam orari

🏆 BEST AMSTERDAM CANAL CRUISE

Me and my husband on our favorite canal cruise in Amsterdam- Captain Jack's All-Inclusive Canal Cruise!

Short on time? No problem! Captain Jack’s All-Inclusive Canal Cruise is the best canal tour in Amsterdam!

7 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

Here are some of the top boat tours in Amsterdam:

1. Best Overall and Family-Friendly: Captain Jacks (My Favorite!)

Me and JB on Captain Jack's All Inclusive Canal Cruise in Amsterdam.

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 1 Hour 30 Minutes | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

I just took this boat tour in Amsterdam about a month ago, and let me tell you, it was incredible! Captain Jack has a way of making Amsterdam feel like home, all the while providing interesting information about the city! If you’ve asked around about the best canal cruises in Amsterdam, chances are you’ve heard of Captain Jack. His name is a revered one among visitors looking for the best experience in the city, and let me tell you, he lives up to the name! As soon as we saw him, he greeted us with open arms and a massive smile! It’s no surprise that his tours have been awarded the Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award more than once. And most recently in 2022! Choose from multiple departure times and places throughout the day and prepare to be regaled by the entertaining tales and commentary from Captain Jack himself or one of his teammates. Our guide was born and raised in Amsterdam, so he had tons of unique tidbits to share with us!

As with most of the boat cruises in the Canal Ring, Captain Jack’s takes in the main sights. He sails visitors past famous landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House. This tour includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks in a small group environment, where you’ll set sail with a maximum of 20 total visitors. Overall, I’d highly recommend an Amsterdam river cruise with Captain Jack. It was such a welcoming experience- and we felt like royalty with all of the free snacks, beers, and stories!

2. Most Popular Canal Cruise in Amsterdam: Flagship Amsterdam

One of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam- Flagship canal cruises with beverages and comfortable seating.

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars (more than 30,000 reviews) | ⏳ Duration: 1 Hour | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

Looking for the #1 top-rated boat tour in the world? Flagship’s luxury open-boat tour is the one you want. With more than 30,000 five-star reviews, this is easily the most popular tour in Amsterdam , and it’s one of the most well-priced, too. I enjoyed this boat tour when I took it myself, and it’s absolutely my top recommendation for those who are looking for a good cruise at an affordable pricepoint! Board a chic, comfortable boat and sail through the canal ring of the Netherlands like you belong there. See more than 40 landmarks and areas of Amsterdam such as the Anne Frank House , the Houseboat Museum, and the Dutch National Opera and Ballet as you cruise along canals such as the Herengracht, Singel, and Prinsengracht. Flagship is known for its witty tour guides who regale travelers with their unique tales of Amsterdam and their cozy, family-like atmosphere. This tour is a must-do for a first-timers trip to the city, even if you are only there for one day !

Our guides were amazing! They had so many interesting facts and kept the whole group engaged throughout. They were really friendly and we throughly enjoyed our cruise. I would absolutely recommend this company over other boats! -ERIN (READ MORE REVIEWS )

This cruise runs year-round and offers blankets to keep warm in chillier weather so that you can still see the beauty of Amsterdam from the water. Plus… a cash bar on board makes this the perfect tour to book for a relaxing afternoon seeing the city.

3. Amazing Small-Group Evening Canal Tour: Pure Boats

A canal boat sailing away in the evening under a moonlit sky in Amsterdam.

One of my favorite canal boat tours ever was an evening one! There’s something about seeing the city all lit up at night that almost feels unreal. So, if you want a unique evening experience , look no further than the Pure Boats small-group nighttime canal cruise. It goes without saying that the 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage Canal Ring is a stunning sight to see under the stars. Glide through the water of Amsterdam as you enjoy an open-bar cruise complete with wine, craft beer, and delicious Dutch cheese. This river tour experience will blow you away as you take in the scenery of the city all lit up and watch Amsterdam descend into a night of excitement. When you’re finished, you’re all set to continue enjoying the fabulous European nightlife Amsterdam is famous for. With a maximum of 16 travelers, this small group tour creates an intimate environment with a personal touch.

Really intimate and beautiful. We did a canal boat ride during the day and the this one at night highlighted very different things. Claas was a great host. The cheese was freaking amazing. – HAFEESA (SEE more reviews )

Amsterdam basically never sleeps, so this is a unique opportunity to admire the beauty of popular must-see places like the Skinny Bridge, the Amstel, and the 7 Bridges. During your journey, learn historical facts and interesting stories from a local, trained guide.

canal cruise amsterdam orari

4. Top Amsterdam Canal Cruise Experience: Amsterdam Food & Canal Tour

The seven bridges on the Reguliersgracht canal in Amsterdam.

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 4 Hours | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

Local guides provide a unique canal cruise and tour experience all in one with one of the top Amsterdam river cruises- the Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour. Spend four entire hours with your guide uncovering hidden gems and local favorites in the city. You cannot find this experience anywhere else! Meet a Dutch family, see historical sites, and explore Amsterdam both on foot and via waterway during your adventure.

Hanging with Gerard felt like an old friend. He shared old history stories throughout Jordaan and the city center as we stumbled into hidden gems. With a total of 6 food stops with herring fish and aged boeren overjarig cheese being my favorite! Our time ended with a private luxury salon boat cruise through the canals and even into the Amstel River. Book now before it’s sold out! – Dan (read more reviews )

First, your tour begins with a private boat ride that takes you around the UNESCO World Heritage canals such as the Prinsengracht, Herengracht, and Keizersgracht (Emperor’s Canal) to see both traditional and unique buildings in Amsterdam. Then, take a walking tour and taste multiple Dutch foods while you engage with locals. This tour is a great way to meet some new friends in Amsterdam and see lesser-known parts of the city.

5. Top Private Luxury Canal Cruise Tour in Amsterdam

A couple on a romantic, private canal cruise taking a selfie.

If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy romantic evening in the city for couples or an intimate tour for your small group, a private canal tour is the way to go! This entirely customizable boat tour in Amsterdam means you can have everything that you want for a personalized, unique night out with up to 10 of your closest friends. Decide on your cruise itinerary with the skipper from Rederij Paping. Have you been wanting to see a specific part of Amsterdam? Put it on the list, and your captain will take you there!

My fiancee and I had a fantastic time with Skipper Paap. He is extremely knowledgeable about Amsterdam and had a ton of offbeat insights to share, which made the tour more memorable. He was very hospitable and generous as well, sharing local cheese and beer along with his stories. I highly recommend this tour. -Russell (Read more reviews )

Depending on the season, choose the time of day that you’d prefer. Perhaps you want a sunrise viewing, lunchtime extravaganza, or a starlit evening cruise during Christmastime. This eco-friendly tour has won the Viator Badge of Excellence in 2022 , and previous adventurers rave about the insightful live commentary.

Tip: You can find my reviews on all of the BEST PRIVATE BOAT TOURS in Amsterdam here!

6. Best Combination Ticket + Canal Tour

A canal boat coming through a bridge in Amsterdam with the sun setting in the background.

⭐ RATING 4.5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 75 Minutes (Plus Museum) | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

One of the best ways to maximize your time in Amsterdam is to combine attractions whenever possible. If you’re planning to check a few things off of your Amsterdam list , definitely consider combining them with your canal tour! This tour offers audio commentary on your trip through the Amsterdam Canal Ring . You’ll see all of the typical sights on your 75-minute tour, like the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), Westerkerk, the Hermitage Amsterdam, and the NEMO Science Museum. But, in addition, you’ll also grab yourself skip-the-line entry to the Rijksmuseum.

The package is a must do for those visiting Amsterdam for the first time! The RIJKSMUSEUM is an enriching experience. The boat tour is another unmissable treat! You can enjoy the well chosen music while listening the excellent guide or go out to take those magical shots of the romantic canals and bridges at night! The package is definitely value for money! (sEE mORE rEVIEWS )

The Rijksmuseum entries can sell out quickly, so buying your ticket ahead of time with your canal cruise not only saves you money, but it also saves you time and prevents you from being disappointed should museum tickets become unavailable.

Tip: Looking to combine tours, but not interested in the Rijksmuseum? Try these popular combinations below: ✔️ Canal Cruise + Heineken Experience Tickets (Book Here!) ✔️ Canal Cruise + Van Gogh Museum (Book Here!) ✔️ Canal Cruise + Xtracold Icebar Admission (Book Here!)

7. Unforgettable Amsterdam Light Festival Holiday Boat Tour

The Amsterdam Light Festival lights up the entire waterways of the canals for beautiful viewing during a canal cruise.

⭐ RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Duration: 2 Hours | ✈️ BOOK NOW!

After being in Amsterdam for Christmas a few years ago, I can 10/10 recommend doing a nighttime canal cruise to see the Amsterdam Light Festival ! While you can certainly walk or bike around the city and view them, there’s something special about seeing them from the water. Look no further than hopping aboard a small-group canal cruise with Rederij De Wester. Each year, the Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city center into a magical winter wonderland. Artists from all over the world create unique works of art out of lights, decorating streets and canals alike. Hop into a luxurious sloop (one-mast sailboat) complete with heated seats and blankets and marvel at the stunning light displays around the city.

The captain was so knowledgeable and informative and humorous that he made the trip one of the best experiences we have ever had in our few trips to Amsterdam. -GP (SEE more reviews )

With 12 others, enjoy a more comfortable and personalized excursion where you can enjoy unlimited drinks from the open bar and authentic snacks such as the Dutch stroopwafel and bitterballen. What could be more heartwarming than sipping on mulled wine as you cruise around the twinkling canals with a loved one?

FAQ: Amsterdam Canal Cruises

With so many different Amsterdam boat tours available, it’s no wonder that people have questions. Here are some answers to the questions I get most often:

What is the best canal cruise to take in Amsterdam?

The best canal cruise to take in Amsterdam is Captain Jack’s All Inclusive canal cruise . It is an hour and a half filled with stories from locals, great sightseeing, and delicious Dutch treats. And who doesn’t love bottomless beer, wine, and soda? We felt like royalty on Captain Jack’s cruise- he has a way of making everyone feel welcome and included. Plus, we love supporting a fantastic small business.

Is the Amsterdam Canal cruise worth it?

110% an Amsterdam canal cruise is worth it. Do not let anyone talk you out of taking one. Some locals will say they’re touristy. But a boat tour is a beautiful way to see more of Amsterdam, and it is such a unique experience that is quintessentially Amsterdam. I’ve been to Amsterdam many times now, and I still take at least one canal cruise every time I visit!

Which canal is the most beautiful in Amsterdam?

The Brouwersgracht is widely considered to be the most stunning canal in Amsterdam. It has a mixture of magnificent architectural homes built during the Golden Age, unique bridges, and Amsterdam landmarks.

What is the best time for a canal cruise in Amsterdam?

The best time for a canal cruise in Amsterdam is during the day. That way, you can see all of the sights and get some fantastic pictures. Luckily, you can take a boat tour during any season- even winter! Many canal boats are equipped with blankets and covers for inclement weather.

Final Thoughts: Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

There you have it! The 6 most fantastic canal cruise tours for Amsterdam. I hope it was helpful! Regardless of which Amsterdam canal cruise you choose to take, you’re going to have an amazing time in this must-visit city ! In case you skimmed through to the end ( we are all busy!), here is the roundup of the top canal tours for each type of traveler:

✔️ Best Overall + My Personal Favorite Tour: Captain Jack’s ✔️Top Rated + Most Popular: Flagship Amsterdam Open-Boat Canal Cruise ✔️Best Private Canal Cruise: Rederij Paping 1.5 Hour Private Canal Cruise ✔️Best Canal Tour Experience: Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Planning a trip to Amsterdam soon? Check out my top Amsterdam posts below!

✅ My favorite Amsterdam itineraries for 4 days or one day in Amsterdam ! ✅ All the canal cruise private tours I recommend! ✅ An Amsterdam Bucket List to complete! ✅ Everything you need to know for visiting the Anne Frank House ✅ Top Weekend Trips from Amsterdam ✅ Review on my #1 Place to stay in Amsterdam ✅ If you’re biking around the city, here’s what you need to know ! ✅ Wondering if you can speak English in Amsterdam ? Or do you need to greet in Dutch ?

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Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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canal cruise amsterdam orari

Keizersgracht 384 1016 GB, Amsterdam (In front of the Dylan Hotel)

Join us on our new Two hour luxury canal cruise departing from Keizersgracht 384 in Amsterdam

Welcome to Voyage Amsterdam! If you are looking for an authentic canal cruise in Amsterdam with a personal experience, you have come to the right place. We invite you to indulge in a unique boating experience amidst the captivating beauty of the capital. Prepare to embark on a journey through the city and discover the true essence of luxury boating in Amsterdam. Join us today!

Canal Cruise in Amsterdam?

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. 

Canal Cruise Amsterdam Drinks

Amsterdam Exclusive Canal Cruise: Incl Dutch Snacks & Drinks

With Voyage, you will explore Amsterdam from the classic UNESCO protected Canal belt all the way to the Amstel River and so much in between.

  • Unique luxury canal cruise in Amsterdam
  • Live guide with small group
  • Enjoy beer, wine & soft drinks
  • Including Dutch snacks

Amsterdam Exclusive Canal Cruise: Live Guide & Dutch Snacks

Embark on an adventure through Amsterdam’s world-famous 17 th  century canal belt where you can soak in the city’s charm.

  • Live Guide and Onboard Bar
  • Dutch snacks

Canal Cruise Amsterdam No Drinks

Amsterdam Exclusive Canal Cruise: Evening Cruise

Experience the allure of Amsterdam like never before on our luxurious evening canal cruise.

  • Romantic canal cruise in Amsterdam
  • Discover romantic Amsterdam
  • Enjoy illuminated streets and bridges

Exclusive canal cruise in Amsterdam?

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Exclusive canal cruise

At Voyage our core values revolve around prioritizing our guests and delivering exceptional experiences. We consider ourselves fortunate to have the opportunity to meet guests both locally and from all around the world! Our highly knowledgeable crew operate to an extraordinary level of customer service creating an unforgettable experience for all on our canal cruises in Amsterdam.

Wine & Beer

Unlike other boating companies, we refrain from displaying loud bar services on our boats, instead we take pride in offering exclusively curated collections of premium products. The drinks menu has been carefully curated, with a delightful blend of both local and international beverages. The wine selection has been hand-picked from various vineyards worldwide, providing an exquisite range of flavours to suit every palate. Discover the essence of Amsterdam culture through our selection of local beers. Each beer offers a unique taste of our wonderful city; one of them is even brewed in a windmill!

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Unforgettable Memories

During the time you are on the water with us you will find yourself immersed in an atmosphere that is relaxed, informative and fun. Questions are always welcome! We cruise past some of the most iconic sites of the city, providing many photo opportunities. Whether you are visiting with your partner, your friends, your family, or you are travelling solo, everyone is welcome! Observe the stunning architecture in this beautiful UNESCO world heritage site and find out all about the Dutch culture from our local guides.

Our 5 star reviews

This was an absolute pleasure., tommy kvernenes, highly recommend. great way to see amsterdam, the saloonsloep, a new boating company in the city.

Voyage Amsterdam is the newest boating company on the canals! The company was originally started in 2018 and has since undergone many changes. Today we are proud to present Voyage Amsterdam. 2023 has been our first season and we would like to thank everyone who has cruised with us! We are incredibly excited and already looking forward to what the future will bring.

Amsterdam from the water

With more than 75 kilometers of canals and approximately 1200 bridges, Amsterdam truly is a city built around its magnificent waterways. Many of the canals such as the Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht trace their roots back to the Dutch golden age. Recognized for their unique and iconic beauty, Amsterdam’s canal belt has been added to the world heritage list of UNESCO since 2010. The canals played a vital role in the past and continue to hold significant relevance to the city today. Serving multiple purposes these canals served to keep buildings dry, facilitate the transportation of goods for merchants and enhance the cities defensive capabilities. Today the canals remain a popular way of cruising through Amsterdam for both for tourists and locals alike.

Exploring the Dutch capital

There is so much to see and try when visiting the capital! Whether you’re interested in the history of the city, the local cuisine, or the true essence of Dutch culture, our skippers have many tips and recommendations for you. Discover the history and secrets of the traditional Dutch liquor, Jenever (sometimes known as Dutch Gin)! If you’re interested to try the classic Dutch cuisine, then head to the Albert Cuypmarkt (the biggest open market in Europe). Indulge in the Dutch delicacies such as sweet Stroopwafels and Poffertjes, or Bitterballen! From the numerous museums to the city’s charming neighbourhoods and vibrant parks, Voyage is the place to kick start your trip in Amsterdam! Join us today and discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern vitality.

An authentic experience 

At Voyage Amsterdam we offer a unique and authentic experience on the Dutch canals. Our local skippers eagerly await your arrival to greet you, from there you will then begin your cruise. Immerse yourself in the splendor of the city and gain insights into the rich history and hidden treasures of Amsterdam. During our public tours you will have the opportunity to engage with your skippers, ask questions in a comfortable and engaging setting. They will share their extensive knowledge about Amsterdam, its history as well as some fun facts!

Private tours

In addition to our public tours, we do offer the option of a private boat tour, tailored to your specific needs. Whether it is a birthday celebration, business excursion, or you would like to cruise around with your friends, a private boat tour provides the perfect setting. You have the choice to determine your itinerary and allow our skilled skippers to select a picturesque route for you. For further information regarding private tours, please contact us either by phone or via email.

Curious to find out more about our cruises?

For further information regarding cruises with Voyage Amsterdam, please refer to our sections under ‘our cruises’. Additionally, feel free to contact us either by email at [email protected] or by telephone on +31 630749960 .

A’DAM Lookout

  • What to expect
  • Ticket prices
  • Thrill attractions
  • Combi tickets
  • Groups, schools or events
  • Opening hours
  • Getting there
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • ADAM VR Game & Race Park
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Nederlands

Canal Cruise

A’dam lookout + canal cruise.

Combine a visit to A’DAM LOOKOUT with a 75-minute canal cruise. Hop aboard a 100% electric canal boat and experience Amsterdam’s canals and their many attractions. See iconic sights such as the Anne Frank House, the houseboats, the churches, and the famous bridges. Learn about Amsterdam’s history and how the canals were essential to its success in the 17th century. The perfect combination to see Amsterdam from the water, and from 100 meters at A’DAM LOOKOUT. Departures at Badhuiskade: 2 minute walk from A’DAM LOOKOUT.

She Wanders Abroad

16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With

Rederij Plas Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

Visiting Amsterdam without embarking on a canal cruise is like going to Rome without seeing the Colosseum!

Of course, you’ll surely spend a significant portion of your trip strolling alongside canals like Herengracht and Prisengracht, but there’s something magical about the city towering over you from the waters. 

Amsterdam has over 150 canals to its name, with almost as many boat tours on offer, too! In fact, you’ll likely spot dozens of canal cruises gliding through the waterways from the moment you arrive. 

The abundance of Amsterdam canal tours gives you lots of flexibility and choice, but it can be tricky to determine which cruises tick all your boxes and which will have you uncomfortably sandwiched between one too many passengers.

You might also be surprised that the variety of boat tours is endless, with cruises catering to just about every interest. Think romantic sunset sailing for couples, family-friendly excursions, and rowdy booze cruises for any party animals!

Below, you’ll find a collection of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam, featuring everything from trips that will be kind to your wallet to luxurious private outings for you and your crew.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Quick Lockdown of the Top Amsterdam Canal Cruises

  • Most Budget-Friendly Canal Tour in Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Live Commentary and Audio Guide
  • Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam for Families: River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes
  • Most Exclusive Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drink s
  • Best Amsterdam Canal Tour for a Special Occasion: Romantic Private Canal Tour and Prosecco & Snacks
  • Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam for Party-Lovers: Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

1. classic boat cruise with cheese & wine option.

canal cruise amsterdam orari

A quintessential boat ride in Amsterdam with a twist, this cruise will help you start crossing off many landmarks from your Amsterdam to-do list in style.

Although you can opt for the basic package without any add-ons, if you’re like me, you most certainly won’t regret elevating your trip with some delectable Dutch cheeses and tasty wines!

As you snack on your plate of Gouda and Edam, your hosts and skipper will be on hand to unravel the rich history behind sites like the Damrak Canal Houses and the Skinny Bridge.

Don’t let the idea of unlimited wine fool you into thinking that this is a party cruise! This tour is much more low-key and focuses on exploring the canals in comfort. 

2. Evening Canal Cruise

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Even though first-timers are usually best to stick to daytime tours to get a closer look at Amsterdam’s staggering architecture and flower-covered bridges, after-dark cruises are also a fantastic opportunity that allows you to see the city in a whole different light.

Amsterdam is vibrant at any hour of the day, but I love witnessing the city light up when the sun goes down. Every walkway along the canal feels incredibly romantic, the cobblestone streets are full of life, and the canal houses become even more enchanting.

Over an hour and a half, you’ll get unparalleled views of famous sights like the Blauwbrug Bridge, A’DAM Lookout, and Rijksmuseum while your audio guide gives you all the need-to-know information.

If you’ve arrived before your dinner and are feeling famished, you can add a snack box to your ticket so you can nibble on popcorn, stroopwafels, and peanuts along the way!

3. Amsterdam City Canal Cruise

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Packing in a myriad of Amsterdam hot spots into one trip, like Skinny Bridge and the Golden Bend, this excursion will have you arguing with your travel buddy over who gets the window seat!

You’ll have your pick of up to ten departure times each day, but if you have a particular date in mind, be sure to snap up your tickets ahead of time online, as the weekend and sunset spots frequently sell out quickly.

This won’t be a quiet and intimate cruise, but the vibe on each of these sailings still tends to be pretty relaxed as passengers get the low down on Amsterdam’s winding canals from an audio guide.

Much like the previous Amsterdam canal boat tours, you can select some treats to keep your hunger at bay during your outing.

Read Next: 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Itinerary

4. Canal Cruise with Live Commentary and Audio Guide

canal cruise amsterdam orari

It’s rare to find boat rides in Amsterdam that feature narration from the captain and are also easy on the pocket. This is why this tour has rightfully earned its place among the best canal cruises in Amsterdam!

Not only will your skipper share little-known facts about life along the canals and Amsterdam’s fascinating culture, but you’ll also use your audio guide to get some extra insight into the many points of interest you encounter during your tour.

As well as being a fully electric boat, this vessel has another, rather strange, claim to fame, as it’s home to the smallest toilet in Amsterdam!

You won’t find drinks included in your ticket, but you can purchase some onboard if the summer sun is leaving you parched.

5. Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Only for the cheese and wine-filled cruise option I mentioned before, this evening tour just might have been my top recommendation!

It doesn’t get much better than pizza and a glass of wine at sunset as your captain stops by some of Amsterdam’s most eye-catching waterfront buildings and iconic sites.

Possibly, the only thing that can distract you from the beauty of this magical city is when you’re picking out your pizza on board! Five flavors are available, which you’ll pair with two drinks of your choice from a selection of wines, beers, and soft drinks.

A great middle ground that’s neither an upscale cruise nor a party boat, I think this tour fits the bill whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or with your pals.

6. River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes

From fresh pizzas to bottomless pancakes, the Dutch certainly know how to keep their visitors well-fed! In addition to the seemingly endless supply of pancakes provided, this tour is distinct from many other boat rides in that it focuses on a different part of Amsterdam. 

After you’ve topped your pancakes with your favorite fruits, jams, and cheeses, you can look out over the River IJ and spot contemporary buildings like the EYE Filmmuseum that have popped up just minutes from the typical streets filled with traditional Dutch structures. 

If your youngsters aren’t as enamored with the views as you are, there’s a playground on board to keep them entertained!

7. Hop-On Hop-Off Boat

canal cruise amsterdam orari

When in Amsterdam, a hop-on, hop-off bus just won’t suffice! This hop-on, hop-off boat is a flexible sightseeing tour with 24 and 48-hour boat passes, allowing you to navigate the city on the water as you please, much in the same way as you would with traditional hop-on, hop-off bus packages.

With this option, you can choose between passes for the bus, boat, or both, though the boat pass is definitely the way to go for a unique and convenient Amsterdam adventure.

To make things even easier, the bus and boat boarding points are usually quite close together, which is fantastic if you’ve opted for the combined ticket.

Read Next: 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List

8. Open Boat Canal Cruise with Local Guide

For uninterrupted views of Amsterdam’s historic canal-side architecture, this open boat tour is hard to beat. 

Your onboard guide will fill you in on each captivating sight you pass and will have the answer to all your lingering questions if you want more in-depth insight into the Dutch way of life.

Over the course of an hour, your skipper will give you a glimpse of bucket list Amsterdam attractions like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. 

You’ll have an opportunity to get some stellar shots of the scenic Grachtengordel district, so have your cameras at the ready!

9. Semi-Open Canal Boat Cruise

Lovers Canal Cruises, one of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam

Next up is the 1-hour Semi-Open Canal Boat Cruise with a partially open rooftop offering unbeatable views. The roofs of these ships are fully made of glass and run with zero emissions, so you won’t miss out on views regardless of the weather. 

This relaxing tour departs all throughout the day at various times and shows you the best of Amsterdam at a slow pace. Cruise through the historical center and spot all the landmarks you’ve dreamt about.

After you jump on your electric boat, you’ll be equipped with an audio guide you can listen to in between bursts of commentary from your captain if you wish.

10. Canal Cruise with Drinks and Bites

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Gather your family and friends for this one ! Despite the name, this is not the type of cruise where you’ll spend the evening partying along the canals. While you can sip on a few Heinekens or wines, the ambiance onboard is mellow, and passengers old and young are all welcome.

As this boat is relatively small, your captain will drift along tiny canals many other tours can’t offer, letting you spot some fabulous hidden corners of the city unknown to many.

There will be a bunch of guides on hand during your 90-minute expedition to answer any questions you might have about any of the sights or the city itself. 

Each group leader puts their own spin on the tour, so no two journeys are the same.

To top it all off, you’ll be supplied with a platter of Dutch delights, including a selection of sweet and savory bites so nobody goes hungry.

11. Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Get ready for a night out while exploring the sights and sounds of Amsterdam on this party tour .

The drinks start flowing as soon as you climb aboard this lively boat, where you’ll have an hour of unlimited beer and wine to sip on as you sail under historic bridges and onto the Amstel River.

You’ll travel on a gorgeous, nautical-themed open boat during the warmer months or stay toasty inside a luxury enclosed vessel when the winter chill gets a bit too much.

With a huge range of time slots, you’ll have no problem fitting this boozy activity into your schedule.

Read Next: Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels

12. Smoke and Lounge City Boat Cruise

Combining two of the things Amsterdam has become famed for, this smoke-friendly Amsterdam canal cruise is a surprisingly rare tour.

You’ll need to leave the kids at home for this one, as this trip is filled with passengers dabbling in the city’s famous cannabis culture while taking in the views of Amsterdam’s mesmerizing canals.

Anyone planning to smoke up will need to bring their own stash, though you’re welcome to use the onboard supply of shishas for an extra cost. Opt for the 60-minute journey, and you’ll get a complimentary drink, while the 70-minute excursion supplies guests with two beverages.

Amsterdam Central Station

13. Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise

Take your better half on a date night they’ll never forget on this cheese and wine-filled cruise . 

Each tour starts in the evening, meaning you’ll have the most incredible view in Amsterdam to watch the capital transition from day to night. 

Plenty of nibbles are provided, including a range of Dutch cheeses that pair perfectly with a few glasses of wine of your choice. 

This particular tour feels a little more upmarket than many of its competitors, though it still manages to have a casual vibe that attracts couples and friend groups looking to catch a dreamy Amsterdam sunset.

Perfectly-timed sailings like this truly make for some of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam.

14. Romantic Private Canal Tour and Prosecco & Snacks

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Explore the city’s more sentimental side on this day tour as your guide takes you through spots like the Skinny Bridge and the Bridge of Love while you and your partner share some Prosecco, sweet treats, and traditional Dutch snacks.

For an even more intimate affair, I can’t think of anything more romantic than this nighttime cruise through Amsterdam.

Similar to the daytime version but even more romantic, your skipper will double as a storyteller during this heavenly journey, treating you and your loved one to Prosecco or mulled wine, snacks, and heated seats for those cold winter nights.

You’ll be glad to know that the rain can’t interfere with your date night, as each boat has a detachable roof to ensure nothing puts a dampener on your plans.

15. Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks

When it comes to the best canal tours in Amsterdam for big groups, it’s hard to argue that anything can top this BBQ cruise .

Exactly as the name suggests, your gang will have a deluxe boat to yourselves, where there’ll be a private chef onboard serving up mouthwatering BBQ favorites for two hours.

Fresh bread and colorful salads will accompany a selection of steaks, burgers, and chicken skewers fit for a king. Your chef can cook up veggie alternatives for each dish if meat isn’t your thing, ensuring everyone gets a good feed before the unlimited beer and wine takes its toll.

As superb as this already sounds, you’ll have all of this with Amsterdam’s iconic scenery as your backdrop.

16. Canal Belt Private Beer Boat Tour

canal cruise amsterdam orari

If you’d prefer to pass on the food, this beer canal cruise will be right up your street.

A top pick for bachelors and bachelorettes who’ve come to Amsterdam to party, this plush boat can hold up to 35 of your nearest and dearest if you have a big friend group.

Your captain will take you through some of the most bewitching parts of town, pointing out tourist hubs and cultural hotspots on the way, but you’ll undoubtedly be more focused on the booze.

You’ll sample four of the tastiest Dutch beers across this 90-minute, fun-filled outing that will stay with you long after you’ve headed home.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

If you’re a first-time visitor, then you’ll want to stay close to the city center, and there are plenty of options.

De Pijp is the city’s bohemian quarter and home to some of the best bars and streetside cafes. If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, then Jordaan is an excellent option with its gorgeous 17th-century townhouses and top-class restaurants. Oud West is another charming area with leafy parks and plenty to do.

If you want to read more about the best areas to stay in the city, make sure to check out our in-depth post about  where to stay in Amsterdam .

For an unforgettable stay, browse through the list of the  best Amsterdam hotels with canal views or the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam .

In case you’re in a rush, here are my top hotel recommendations for different budgets.

  • Luxury | Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam
  • Mid-range | NH Amsterdam Schiller
  • Budget | Bridge Inn

Hotel De L'Europe Amsterdam, one of the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam

Planning a trip to Amsterdam?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Amsterdam. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

  • Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels
  • 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List
  • 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With
  • One Day in Amsterdam: How to See the Best of Amsterdam in a Day
  • The Perfect 2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary for First Timers
  • 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect Amsterdam Itinerary
  • How to Spend 4 Days in Amsterdam: Ultimate Itinerary for First Timers
  • 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

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16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can't Go Wrong With

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Depart from Central Station or Rijksmuseum

All Inclusive 90 Minutes Canal Cruise

90 Minutes All Inclusive Canal Cruise

Canal Cruise with unlimited drinks

Discover Amsterdam on the most relaxing, comfortable, and enjoyable canal cruise with friends and family. During our 90-minute canal cruise, you’ll delve into Amsterdam’s rich history while our hosts entertain you with fascinating facts and entertaining stories. In the summer, we use open boats for our tours, providing an immersive experience along Amsterdam’s stunning canals. With a small and lively group (max. 24), you’ll explore Amsterdam in a unique way. And don’t forget about the unlimited drinks offered during our canal cruise: beer, wine, and soft drinks, making our tour an unforgettable experience!

90 Minutes All Inclusive Canal Cruise

Discover Amsterdam in a small group

Discover the advantages of joining our small group for a special history tour! With only up to 20 people, our group is small, which means you’ll get more attention from our guides. They’ll share cool facts and stories about the history of Amsterdam, and you can ask questions too.

Just a heads up, though: our tour isn’t for parties or drinking. We want to keep things respectful and focused on learning and enjoying the sights. So if you’re up for a laid-back and educational time, come join us!

90 Minutes All Inclusive Canal Cruise

Visit famous landmarks in Amsterdam

Join our small group for an unforgettable tour of Amsterdam! Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, our 90-minute journey along the picturesque canals promises excitement and discovery.

Embark on a picturesque journey from the iconic Central Station or the prestigious Rijksmuseum as our tour guides you through the most enchanting spots in Amsterdam. From the graceful Magere Brug to the opulent Golden Bend, marvel at the splendor of our city from a unique perspective. Our seasoned guides know Amsterdam inside out and share captivating tales and hidden gems, such as the charming Dancing Houses, the historic Old Town with its canal district, and the bustling open harbor. Explore the rich history and uncover the hidden treasures of Amsterdam on this unforgettable tour.

The tour is conducted by our partner Captain Jack Amsterdam

Free cancellations

Plans changed? No problem! Cancel up to 24 hours before your cruise starts and you will get your money back.

Personal cruise

Enjoy a personal canal cruise through Amsterdam with an enthusiastic, genuine local skipper.

Service oriented

We are available 24/7 to answer any questions that you may have. Contact us via phone, email and/or WhatsApp.

Extra information about our canal cruise

Our tours start from two convenient locations: the iconic Central Station and the prestigious Rijksmuseum. You can choose the starting point that best suits your itinerary.

During our 90-minute canal journey through Amsterdam, you’ll glide past iconic landmarks like the historic Anne Frank House and the delightful Jordaan district. But there’s more than meets the eye! Our knowledgeable guides will also reveal hidden gems like the city’s best breweries and the exciting Nemo Science Museum, adding a splash of adventure to your Amsterdam experience.

We keep our tour groups small and intimate, with a maximum of 20 people per group. This ensures a personalized experience where you can fully enjoy the sights and interact with our knowledgeable guides.

Yes, our tours are suitable for families with children. We offer a family-friendly experience that caters to all ages, with engaging commentary and activities to keep everyone entertained while exploring Amsterdam’s canals.

Unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the boats used. The boats have limited space and may not accommodate wheelchairs comfortably. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and are working to improve accessibility in the future. If you have specific accessibility concerns, please feel free to contact us, and we’ll do our best to assist you in finding alternative options for exploring Amsterdam.

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Full Suitcase Travel Blog

Amsterdam Canal Cruise (2024): 10 Tips for a Better Experience

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 6, 2024

Amsterdam Canal Cruise (2024): 10 Tips for a Better Experience

Are you thinking of taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam in the Netherlands and wondering if it’s worth it and what to expect?

In this guide, we share our experience-based tips for Amsterdam canal cruises to help you plan a truly unforgettable experience. In addition, you’ll also find our hand-picked recommendations for the best canal cruises in Amsterdam in 2024.

Amsterdam’s canal system dates back to the 17th century, the prosperous time of the Golden Age. They are now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Many of the oldest neighborhoods and historic buildings can be found along Amsterdam’s canals (‘grachten’). There is really no better way to get a first introduction to the city than by taking a sightseeing boat trip along the main canals of Amsterdam.

So if you are wondering if the Amsterdam canals cruise is worth it, yes, it absolutely is. More than that – it’s one of the best things to do in Amsterdam that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

If you visit the city on a sunny weekend, you will be amazed at the sheer number of boats on the canals all over Amsterdam. It sometimes looks as if everyone here owns a boat and they use every opportunity to get on the water… So do as the locals and don’t miss a chance to discover this beautiful city from the water.

Good to know: Since most canal cruises in Amsterdam only take 60-75 minutes and there are multiple starting locations , it’s really easy to fit it into any itinerary.

Now that we established that taking a canal cruise is really a must-do in Amsterdam, there are quite a few things that you may want to know before you go. Which boat to choose, where to start, what to wear, or how to make the most of your visit…

In this article, we share Amsterdam canal cruise tips and useful info that should help you avoid disappointment and have a truly unforgettable experience. At the end of this guide, you will also find some of the frequently asked questions about Amsterdam canal cruises.

TIP: If you have no time to read the entire article, here are the best options for Amsterdam canal cruise:

  • Open-boat canal cruise . This is our personal recommendation, based on our various experiences with canal cruises in Amsterdam.
  • Semi-open boat cruise . This is a very popular canal cruise, great in any weather. If you like the idea of enjoying an unlimited supply of Dutch cheese & wine (or other drinks if you prefer) during your cruise, then opt for this tour.
  • Classic LOVERS canal cruise . This is the most popular, budget-friendly canal cruise on a covered boat with a glass roof. Please note that the name of this cruise company has nothing to do with the English meaning of this word ;).
  • Evening canal cruise . This is a great option if you want to experience Amsterdam canals in the dark.
  • Private canal cruise . The best option if you are looking for a more authentic experience and want the whole boat just for your own group/family.

Just in case you wonder, this article is not sponsored and all opinions are our own. We visit Amsterdam quite often and have done multiple canal tours. So all these tips are based on our first-hand experiences.

Amsterdam canal cruise tips and tricks

Here are our top tips for Amsterdam canal cruises:

1. Book in advance

First things first – if you are planning your itinerary and want to take a canal cruise in Amsterdam, we strongly recommend booking in advance . There are a few reasons for this.

First, by booking in advance, you can make sure that the location of the boat tour fits your overall itinerary. Furthermore, you can choose the boat type that you like, read customer reviews, compare prices, and know exactly what you get.

There are so many options for Amsterdam canal cruises that the choice is tough even online. Once you get to the city, it’s absolutely overwhelming. With dozens of companies running tours from numerous locations and various boat types and other options available, you never know exactly what you’ll get.

On a recent visit, we also noticed that most canal cruises in Amsterdam were slightly more expensive than online. Some companies also adjust their prices depending on demand. We saw multiple companies increase their price by a euro or two on the weekend or when it got busier. Luckily, most canal cruises aren’t expensive to start with, but a few euros extra for a big family can quickly add up.

Last but not least, booking in advance will save you time. While it is usually possible to book a canal cruise on the day itself as well, often that means that you’ll need to wait for the next available boat. On busy days at the most popular locations, you can waste a couple of hours or may not even be able to find a suitable option at all.

Further below, you can find more information on the best canal cruises.

Walter Süskind Bridge (Walter Süskindbrug) in Amsterdam

2. Opt for an open-boat tour

Unless you are visiting Amsterdam in the coldest months, I highly recommend considering an open-boat canal cruise. The experience on these boats is incomparable to the (semi-)covered ones and the price difference is normally just 3-5 euros.

I still remember the first time we visited Amsterdam and took a ‘regular’ tour on a covered boat. It was so busy that everyone was packed inside. If you got on the boat a bit later than others, you had no window seat. Despite the beautiful sunny weather, the glass roof and windows were only partially open and we had obstructed views. To make things worse, we could hardly hear the commentary from the guide…

A lot has changed since then and most companies running canal cruises in Amsterdam try not to overload their boats too much, the sound quality is better, etc. Since a few years, there are also several companies offering open boat cruises in Amsterdam. So nowadays, we always try to opt for an open boat, even though it’s a bit more expensive and a bit more uncertain weather-wise.

The main advantage of an open boat is that you have unobstructed views (and can take better pictures). Plus, everyone gets the best seat since all the chairs are along the side. These boats are also much smaller than the traditional canal cruises in Amsterdam, so it feels like a much more local experience, and you can interact with the captain and the guide in person.

Open boats usually have an onboard bar, so you can order a drink and enjoy it while sailing on the canals. You’ll meet many locals doing exactly the same thing on their own little boats. So it feels like a much more relaxed local experience.

Good to know: One of the best companies for open boat cruises is Flagship Amsterdam. They have various options for canal cruises in Amsterdam. Their standard cruise with an onboard bar is the most popular choice (we took it recently and really enjoyed it). In addition, they have private cruises, cruises that include drinks and snacks, etc.

However, an open boat may not be suitable for everyone (e.g. people with mobility issues) – more info about it below.

Amsterdam canal cruise open boat with drinks

3. Consider your mobility & season when choosing the boat

As already mentioned, our personal preference goes for open-boat tours on Amsterdam canals. However, they may not always be the best idea for everyone. So consider your personal situation and the season when you are visiting when deciding on the boat type.

For example, open boat cruises are definitely not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Classic boats like the LOVERS cruises are a bit more suitable if you have mobility restrictions. However, also there, you have to be able to walk 1-3 steps when getting in and out of the boat. Please also note that you cannot take a wheelchair (or a stroller) on board. You can leave them on the quayside; in that case, I strongly recommend packing a bicycle lock – it will give you peace of mind.

Blue Boat cruises have just one wheelchair-accessible location and that is if you start at Hard Rock Café Pier (close to Rijksmuseum). However, you have to book one of the following time slots (11 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, or 4 PM) and let them know in advance that you’ll be in a wheelchair. They allow just 3 wheelchairs onboard at the same time.

As for the weather, you can’t predict that in advance, often, not even a few days upfront. So decide based on the season, keeping in mind that there is always a chance of rain and wind in Amsterdam.

While open boat cruises typically have a few blankets and umbrellas available, it may not be your idea of a fun excursion. So if you are visiting in a shoulder season or are worried that you’ll quickly get cold, opt for a traditional boat or a semi-open boat instead.

Good to know: Traditional covered boats typically have heating in the winter, but it can still be chilly on the coldest days.

Amsterdam canal cruises and crooked houses at Damrak

4. Pick a cruise location wisely

As already mentioned, there are multiple locations where you can take a canal cruise in Amsterdam. The most popular starting points are Amsterdam Central Railway Station, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum.

Good to know: There is not one ‘best’ place to start your canal tour in Amsterdam. No matter where you start and which boat you take, most sightseeing cruises visit the same places and main highlights along Amsterdam’s Canal Belt ( Grachtengordel ) .

Depending on where you start, you will see somewhat different parts of the city, but typically, all cruises go on at least one or two main canals.

Every cruise we’ve been to passed the most prestigious Herengracht which was traditionally inhabited by the richest and most prominent citizens of the city. Nowadays, you will find some of the most expensive hotels in the city here, such as Waldorf Astoria , and offices of companies like Booking.com .

They all take you to the famous Seven Bridges (and you have to be really quick to see them). All cruises go to the Amstel River as well, where you can see some of the most impressive bridges in Amsterdam and the famous ‘dancing houses’. (You will soon realize that pretty much all houses in Amsterdam’s city center are leaning one way or the other, but these cruises will always point out the same ones ;)).

Amsterdam dancing houses on Amstel River - most Amsterdam canal cruises pass here

There are also canal cruises visiting ‘off-the-beaten path’ canals in Amsterdam (e.g. this cruise that focuses on the Jordaan neighborhood), but those are less common. If it’s your first time in the city, you will want to see the top places, and for that, it doesn’t matter that much where you start or which tour you choose.

However, the location matters a lot for your overall itinerary . Choosing it wisely can save you a lot of time. In case you wonder, the cruises will always drop you off at the place where you started.

For example, if you are arriving by train and plan to spend just a day in Amsterdam , you may want to start your visit with a canal cruise right away. In that case, choose a cruise departing near the Central Station. Whereas if you are visiting the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum first thing in the morning, you may want to do a cruise right after that. In this case, choose the starting location at the Rijksmuseum.

On our recent trip to Amsterdam, we had tickets for Anne Frank House at 5 PM. Knowing that a typical visit takes about 1 hour, we booked a canal cruise starting at Anne Frank House at 6.30 PM. Planning in advance makes it so much more relaxing too!

TIP: This open boat cruise is possible from all three most popular locations; you choose them during booking.

Lovers canal cruises in front of the Central Railway Station in Amsterdam

5. Save money with combination tickets

Depending on the landmarks that you are planning to visit and the boat type, you can save some money on Amsterdam canal cruises by booking combination tickets.

Here are some of the best options :

  • Amsterdam Pass . This digital pass lets you choose a few of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam including a canal cruise. The main advantage of this pass is that you can immediately book your timed slots for all the sites (and see if they are available at the date/time you want to visit). Most other combination tickets don’t allow you to prebook a time slot for the boat in advance.
  • Van Gogh Museum + Canal Cruise or Rijksmuseum + Canal Cruise . These combination tickets let you choose a timed entry for the museum of your choice, but the canal cruise is an open ticket. You can board the next available boat from one of the two docks at either Hard Rock Cafe or Heineken Experience (both docks are not too far from these museums).
  • Van Gogh Museum + Canal Cruise or Rijksmuseum + Canal Cruise or Heineken Experience + Canal Cruise . Same as above – you can choose a timed slot for the museum visit. However, the canal cruise departs from the Central Station (which is on the other side of town from the museums), and the time slot has to be pre-booked at their office.
  • i amsterdam City Card . This card offers great value if you are staying in Amsterdam for at least a few days. However, you will have to pre-book time slots for some museums and also canal cruises separately. It can be an amazing deal if you are here for 3-5 days and plan to visit many of the included attractions, but it’s a bit more hassle to arrange things where advance booking is essential.

Good to know: These combination tickets are actually quite popular, but be sure to consider all the practicalities such as the cruise departure location and ability/need to reserve the boat. Also, keep in mind that all these boats are traditional ones. So if you would like to take an open-boat cruise, simply book all your tickets separately.

READ ALSO: Tips for Visiting Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam

Amsterdam sightseeing cruise - houseboats on canals

6. Avoid weekends and peak times

Taking a boat trip on Amsterdam canals is the most popular thing to do in the city. So the canal cruises are at their busiest during weekends, school holidays, and also during the peak times in the middle of the day.

Plus, lots of locals take out their own boats for a ride on the canals when the weather is nice and they have more time. So on a sunny summer weekend, Amsterdam canals might look like a beehive. While it is always fun to watch from the side, it’s less fun to be stuck in a ‘traffic jam’ on the canals.

TIP: For a more relaxed experience, we recommend taking a canal cruise on a weekday, early in the morning (9-10.30 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 4-5 PM). Evening cruises (with or without dinner options) are also very popular and can be especially nice in the winter season when it gets dark early.

Not only is it much quieter on the canals in the morning on a weekday, but it’s usually also not as busy on the boat itself.

Good to know: Most canal cruises in Amsterdam start at 9 AM (bigger boats) or 10 AM (open boats) with frequent departure times throughout the entire day and until late in the evening.

Amstel River in Amsterdam with lots of boats on a weekend

7. Do a canal cruise at the beginning of your trip

If you are visiting Amsterdam for the first time, I highly recommend doing a canal cruise at the start of your trip. In fact, I would do it on the very first day.

It’s such a good way to get a first introduction to the city, get your bearings, and also decide which places you potentially want to visit on foot later during your stay.

Depending on how much time you have in Amsterdam, you can always do an additional cruise (for example, in the dark or with dinner) later for yet a different experience. You can find more information about evening boat cruises in Amsterdam further below.

Traditional buildings on Singel Canal in Amsterdam

8. Use a bathroom before going on a boat

Boat trips on Amsterdam canals typically take 60-75 minutes. Plus, you will also need to arrive at least 10-15 minutes in advance. So you will not be able to use a bathroom for at least 1.5-2 hours.

So consider this and be sure to use a bathroom before you go on a boat!

Good to know: Most covered traditional boats have bathrooms on board, but you never know in advance if your boat will have a bathroom. Open boats have no bathrooms.

Recently, when we were on an open-boat canal cruise in Amsterdam, the guides asked everyone if they needed to use a bathroom before we left. Apparently, the previous boat had to stop and leave some people halfway through the tour because they needed to use a bathroom urgently.

Normally, bigger boats won’t even be able to stop at all (nor will you easily find a toilet readily available just anywhere).

Boat on Amsterdam canals

9. Dress warmly

If you wonder what to wear for a canal cruise in Amsterdam, there is really no dress code, so dress comfortably. Comfortable walking shoes will also make it easier to get in and out of the boat, especially if you are taking an open-air cruise.

However, keep in mind that it can be cold on the boat, also because it’s often quite windy in Amsterdam. Even in the summer, you may want to wear a sweater (and sometimes also a jacket) on a boat. But in the summer, it’s just as likely that you will be fine in a T-shirt and will need sun protection too.

So check the weather forecast, but always pack one extra layer just in case.

Good to know: Closed boats have (some) heating in the winter, but they can feel really warm in the summer. Open boats have a couple of blankets on board, but they don’t always have enough for everyone, so they may not be ideal in the coldest season.

Just recently, we were in Amsterdam in June , and it was quite grey and windy on the day we took a canal cruise. The temperatures were around 18-20°C (64-68 F). I was wearing a light puffer jacket and was just fine, whereas my Italian friend who is not used to the colder weather we have here in the Benelux, was cold and had to ask for a blanket. They had just a couple of blankets on board that day.

So a lot depends also on what you are used to. In any case, I always recommend carrying at least a summer scarf or a sweater with you, even if visiting in the summer.

When I was in Amsterdam in December , most canal cruises were in closed boats, but I saw a couple of open boat cruises as well. If the weather is nice and it’s dry, it’s a nice option also in winter.

People wrapped in blankets on an open boat canal cruise in Amsterdam

10. Consider evening cruises as well

In addition to exploring Amsterdam canals by boat during the day, consider taking an evening canal cruise too. Many bridges and buildings are really nicely lit in the dark and it is a really special experience.

Some cruises also offer dinner options, others – drinks and snacks.

Keep in mind, however, that depending on the season, it might get dark at 4.30 PM or at 10.30 PM. So evening cruises in the summer will be quite similar to the ones during the day; whereas in the winter, it’s not comparable.

Here are some of the best evening cruises in Amsterdam:

  • Evening cruise . This is the most budget-friendly option and it simply includes a 1-hr boat tour.
  • 1.5 hours cruise . This is the most popular evening cruise in Amsterdam.
  • Evening cruise with drinks . This is an open-boat cruise including unlimited drinks.
  • Dinner cruise . This is the best-rated cruise with a 4-course meal included.
  • Wine & cheese cruise . This evening cruise includes wine and snacks.
  • Evening cruise with pizza . This is a semi-open boat evening cruise with different pizza and drink options included.

Good to know: If you are visiting Amsterdam during the Christmas season , definitely book a boat cruise to see the artworks of the Light Festival . The Amsterdam Light Festival typically runs from the end of November to late January.

Amsterdam canals evening cruise

Yes, absolutely. Taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam is one of the top experiences and no visit to the city would be complete without exploring it from the water. That being said, there are big differences between boats, so for the best experience, be sure to pick the boat type that suits your travel style and expectations.

While it’s not an absolute must, we highly recommend booking a canal cruise in Amsterdam in advance. That way, you can be sure to have a spot on the boat type of your choice at the location and time slot that best suits your itinerary. Plus, by booking in advance, you can read real customer reviews, compare the best options, and it’s usually a bit cheaper too.

A standard canal cruise in Amsterdam typically costs 20-25 euros per person, depending on the type of boat and when exactly you visit. In addition, there are also canal cruises that include drinks, snacks, or even food, so prices can range up to 70-80 euros depending on your choices.

Amsterdam canal cruises typically take 1-2 hours. Standard sightseeing cruises take 60-75 minutes, whereas boat tours that include food or drink options typically last at least 90-120 minutes.

While most tourists opt for shared canal cruises, there are also private canal cruises available in Amsterdam. Prices vary greatly depending on the boat and the number of people, so be sure to compare before you book. This private evening/night cruise offers the best value that I was able to find.

It is possible to rent boats in Amsterdam, but I really don’t know if I would advise it if it’s your first time in the city. Private boats with a skipper are a much safer and more relaxing option. If you rather go on your own, the most popular rental option is a pedal boat .

Amsterdam canal cruises run the whole year round and are enjoyable in any season. However, we recommend avoiding weekends and school holidays, especially in the middle of the day. For a more relaxed experience, book a cruise on a weekday in the morning or toward the evening.

Yes, of course! Amsterdam canal cruises are suitable for the whole family (there are discounts for kids too) and most kids will love being on a boat. That being said, I recommend taking a boat that has an onboard bar or even includes drinks/snacks if you are traveling with children. They will enjoy it so much more and the food/drinks will keep them busy for a while.

READ ALSO: Amsterdam Travel Tips

Sightseeing cruise on Amstel River at The Blue Bridge (Blauwbrug) in Amsterdam Holland

So, these are our top tips for Amsterdam canal cruises. I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan a truly memorable visit.

Have a great trip!

TIP: Before you go, you may want to check our other guides to Amsterdam and the Netherlands. You can find a short overview below and a full selection here .

More travel inspiration and planning tips for Amsterdam:

  • Best things to do in Amsterdam
  • Amsterdam’s must-see museums
  • Best places to stay in Amsterdam (close to everything)
  • 1 day in Amsterdam
  • 2 days in Amsterdam
  • 3 days in Amsterdam
  • 4 days in Amsterdam
  • Amsterdam countryside
  • Best day trips from Amsterdam
  • Best tulip fields in the Netherlands
  • Tips for visiting Keukenhof Gardens
  • Kinderdijk Windmills
  • Alkmaar Cheese Market
  • Best things to do in Delft

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Tips and info for Amsterdam canals cruise and boat tours

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Friday 3rd of November 2023

Your blog is amazing, Jurga! So much useful information! We will be traveling with our daughters (ages 11 and 12) in mid-December to get the most of the holiday season. We are planning a day canal cruise (open) and an evening one to see the lights. Would you recommend an open, closed or partial for the evening one? We want to make sure we have a great view of the lights but are worried about the weather. Thank you and keep up the good work!

Saturday 4th of November 2023

Hi Erika, December can be really cold (windy) and rainy too, so a partially-open or a closed boat might be the safest option in the evening. I see that most cruises that offer 'light festival' trips are closed boats, but if you take a look at the pictures, you can see that some boats open the sides if the weather permits. So it's really your preference. In any case, dress warm because it's usually chilly even on the closed boats. Also, please note that regular canal cruises visit other places than the 'light festival' evening tours, so indeed, these would be two different experiences. Have a great trip!

Sunday 22nd of October 2023

Thank you for your blog, Jurga. It was very helpful. We just came back from Amsterdam and used your tips. We took an open-boat canal tour as you suggested and it was lovely. A bit chilly but they gave us a blanket and it was perfect. So pretty! Thank you once again!

Tuesday 24th of October 2023

Glad to help, Laya. Happy travels!

Friday 8th of September 2023

Thank you for the post! Im going to Amsterdam for the second time in the first week of november and im doing my research bc its gonna be my first cruise there! Great tips

Monday 11th of September 2023

Glad to help, Bianca. Enjoy Amsterdam!

Tuesday 20th of June 2023

Hi Jurga, we are going to Amsterdam in the first week of October and I cannot decide if we should book an open boat cruise. Do you think the weather will be ok or should be book a closed boat? Thanks

Hi Semi, we live in this part of Europe and if I can tell you one thing is that it's absolutely impossible to predict what the weather will be like months in advance. You can have the most gorgeous sunny day or a torrential downpour at any time of the year here. In general, the first week of October should still be quite nice and not too cold, so I would opt for an open boat or a semi-open boat. The tickets we recommend usually have 24hr free cancelation option, so if the weather looks really bad, you can always cancel it the day before and rebook for a closed boat. You can also simply opt for this popular canal cruise which uses a semi-open boat. The best of both worlds. PS Open boats also have umbrellas available. It could be an interesting experience to do it in the rain... Now that I think of it, some of our most memorable travel experiences are of those moments where things didn't go as planned. :) So relax, don't worry about the weather, and have a fabulous time in Amsterdam!

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Our customers give us a score of 4,5/5

Serene, relaxing, invigorating.

Great people, good service, decently priced. A cruise you can’t and shouldn’t miss when in Amsterdam. Beautiful boats with exceptionally smooth ride and good ongoing commentary in most of the major languages. Enjoyed it. Worth it. Highly recommended. Closing note: Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Buy with other attraction ticket, particularly  Heineken   Experience  (just opposite them) to maximise saving money and time

Perfect way to view Amsterdam!

This is a great way to see Amsterdam. Such a different view from the canals and there are so many beautiful boat homes to see along the way. Highly recommend. Also very nice on a rainy day to see the city but stay warm and dry! Headsets to explain the tour as you go were easy to understand!

Lovely cruise

This cruise was well worth the money. We were on boat for an hour and a half. We went in an evening trip which was beautiful with all the lights. We got to see parts of Amsterdam we had missed, but will definitely be returning so we can go and visit these also. Boat was lovely and warm and drinks were reasonably priced. Staff very friendly.

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  • Canal Routes Amsterdam

Are you looking for a nice canal route in Amsterdam? Eco Boats Amsterdam has mapped out some beautiful boating routes in Amsterdam for you.

Canal routes Amsterdam tips

Amsterdam has many beautiful canals, bridges, buildings and parks. It is therefore no surprise that the Canal District has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2010. But which Amsterdam canal route will you take? It’s a good idea to plan your route in advance so you don’t have to worry about it while you’re boating. This way you can be sure that you won’t miss a thing. Also please read the canal rules before going on the canals. Take a look at the Amsterdam canal routes below and rent a boat in Amsterdam.

amsterdam canal routes centre

Boat routes Amsterdam centre

We’ve mapped out two enjoyable canal routes in Amsterdam centre for you: The Royal Route and The Artis Route. You can also combine them if you want to cruise longer. You’ll cruise along the most famous canals in the centre of Amsterdam and pass by at least 15 highlights.

Royal canal route Amsterdam

On the Royal boating route, you’ll cruise along Amsterdam’s most famous canals such as the Prinsengracht and the Keizersgracht. You’ll encounter the following attractions in Amsterdam:

Prinsengracht

  • Lekkeresluis Bridge
  • Noorderkerk
  • Amsterdam Tulip Museum
  • Anne Frank House
  • Westertoren and Westerkerk
  • 9 Streets / 9 Straatjes
  • Houseboat Museum
  • Amstelsluis
  • Skinny Bridge / Magere Brug
  • Hermitage / H’Art Museum

Keizersgracht

  • Reguliersgracht
  • Museum van Loon
  • Homomonument

Artis route Amsterdam

On the Artis boating route, you’ll cruise past, among others, the Artis Zoo. You’ll encounter the following highlights in Amsterdam:

Amstel (part 1)

Entrepotdok

  • Het Scheepvaartmusem
  • NEMO Science Museum
  • Montelbaanstoren
  • Sint Antoniesluis
  • Café de Sluyswacht
  • Rembrandthuis

Amstel (part 2)

  • Amsterdam City Hall
  • Spinoza Monument
  • The Dancing Houses / Dansende Huizen
  • Waterlooplein
  • National Opera & Ballet
  • Blue Bridge / Blauwbrug

Which Amsterdam canal route will you choose?

Have you decided which canal route on the Amsterdam canals you’re going to take? You’re the captain and can decide for yourself where you want to cruise and how long. You can rent a boat for 2 hours or longer. At Eco Boats Amsterdam, you can sail without a license. Don’t worry, it’s not difficult. We’ll explain the rules and provide you with a route map on board.

Creating your own canal route through Amsterdam

Would you rather create your own enjoyable boating route through Amsterdam? Check out the Amsterdam canal route planner , map out your own route, and show your friends or family what a great skipper you are. Besides the above-mentioned Amsterdam routes and popular hotspots, there are, of course, many more fun attractions in the capital city that you can cruise by. That way, you can decide which canal route you want to take yourself.

Canal cruise incl. 1 drink

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  • Rent an electric boat that you may sail yourself, no boating license required.
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  • Monday: 10:00 - 22:00
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  • Small boats that you can sail yourself
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Food and drinks, how much does it cost to rent a boat that you can sail yourself.

  • Keizers Boat : €60 per uur
  • Heren Boat : €60 per uur
  • Prinsen Boat : €50 per uur
  • Amstel Boat : €50 per uur

How many people fit on the self-drive boat?

  • Keizers Boat : maximum 12 persons
  • Heren Boat : maximum 10 persons
  • Prinsen Boat : maximum 8 persons
  • Amstel Boat : maximum 7 persons

Where can I pick up the self-drive boat?

  • Zandhoek 22, 1013 KT Amsterdam
  • Daniël Goedkoopstraat 1, 1096 BD Amsterdam

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  • Informazioni
  • Attrazioni a Amsterdam
  • Crociere serali
  • Crociere con Flagship Amsterdam
  • Biglietti Amsterdam Heineken Experience
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  • Biglietti Museo Madame Tussauds Amsterdam
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Prenota una crociera sui canali di Amsterdam

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Seleziona la tua esperienza

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Crociera turistica sul canale di Amsterdam

15% di sconto

  • Puoi cancellare questi biglietti fino a 24 ore prima dell'inizio dell'esperienza e ottenere un rimborso completo.
  • Innamorati di Amsterdam con questa crociera in barca con tetto di vetro che passa davanti ai luoghi simbolo della città.
  • Scopri di più su ogni attrazione che vedrai durante la crociera grazie all'audioguida. È disponibile in 19 lingue!
  • Vedrai le attrazioni più famose come la chiesa di Westerkerk, le Nove Strade e il Ponte Magro oltre a poter apprezzare l'architettura barocca del canale.
  • Puoi salire a bordo della crociera da diversi punti d'imbarco come la Central Station, l'Hard Rock Cafe e altri ancora; scegli il tuo nella fase successiva.
  • crociera di 1 ora sul canale di Amsterdam
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Questo è Holland Pier

  • 2 minuti a piedi da A'DAM Lookout e Eye Film Museum

Stazione centrale

  • a 2 minuti a piedi da Basilica di San Nicola e Park Plaza Victoria

Molo dell'esperienza Heineken

  • a 1 minuto a piedi da Heineken Experience e Amsterdam, Weteringcircuit

Hard Rock Cafe

  • 1 minuto a piedi da Rembrandts Amsterdam Experience

Molo della Casa di Anne Frank

  • a 2 minuti a piedi dalla Casa di Anne Frank e dal Monumento di Anne Frank

Clicca su qui per una mappa dettagliata dei punti di imbarco.

  • Suggerimento: scatta foto ai piccoli giardini e agli spazi verdi lungo i canali. Queste oasi nascoste aumentano il fascino della città e offrono un tocco di natura rinfrescante in mezzo all'ambiente urbano!

crociera serale sul canale di amsterdam-1

Crociera serale sul canale di Amsterdam

  • Imbarcati sulla tua crociera e esplora i canali di Amsterdam nella calda luce della città illuminata di notte.
  • L'accoglienza a bordo della confortevole imbarcazione è assicurata dal personale di bordo e il viaggio può iniziare ordinando una bevanda fresca.
  • Mentre esplori il quartiere dei canali, patrimonio dell'UNESCO potrai ascoltare l'audio-guida a bordo, disponibile in 21 lingue, grazie alle cuffie gratuite.
  • La crociera attraversa anche i canali che bagnano il quartiere a luci rosse, dove la maggior parte delle crociere diurne non arriva: il famoso quartiere De Wallen o De Walletjes.
  • Fai l'upgrade della tua crociera alla barca di lusso per avere coperte accoglienti e guide dal vivo. Parti dalla Stazione Centrale o dal molo della Casa di Anna Frank per un'esperienza ancora più intensa.
  • Crociera sui canali di 1 ora o 90 minuti
  • Crociera serale con servizio bar
  • Audio-guida multilingue (disponibile in 21 lingue)
  • Snack box (opzionale)
  • crociera in barca di lusso di 1 ora da Central Station/Anne Frank House Pier (opzionale)

Molo della Stazione Centrale

Hard rock cafe pier.

Clicca su qui per la mappa dettagliata dei punti di imbarco.

  • Consiglio: Amsterdam è famosa per la sua vivace scena artistica di strada. Mentre navighi lungo i canali ti consigliamo di tenere d'occhio i murales colorati e i graffiti che adornano i muri vicino all'acqua.
  • L'audio-guida è disponibile nelle seguenti lingue: inglese, francese, russo, spagnolo, tedesco, cinese, olandese, italiano, portoghese, arabo, giapponese, turco, tailandese, polacco, ceco, croato, indonesiano, cantonese, svedese, coreano e hindi.

crociera di lusso sul canale di amsterdam con formaggio e bevande opzionali-1

Crociera di lusso sul canale di Amsterdam con formaggio e bevande opzionali

  • In questa crociera di lusso potrai ammirare lo skyline di Amsterdam senza ostacoli, mentre la tua guida ti illustrerà le curiosità della città!
  • Questa crociera ti porterà a passare davanti a punti di riferimento come il Magere Brug (Ponte Magro), uno dei ponti più belli di Amsterdam.
  • Scegli il punto d'imbarco, la Casa di Anna Frank, il Rijksmuseum o la Stazione Centrale, da dove un battello aperto ti porterà lontano dalla folla della città.
  • Aspetta, c'è di più! Puoi scegliere di elevare la tua esperienza di crociera scegliendo l'opzione del biglietto con bevande e formaggi illimitati.
  • Guida dal vivo e skipper locale
  • Crociera sui canali di 60 minuti
  • Delizie al formaggio (facoltativo)
  • Bevande illimitate: birra, vino e bevande analcoliche (opzionale)

Servizi esclusi

  • Bevande (puoi visualizzare il menu cliccando qui )

Molo del Rijksmuseum

  • 2 minuti a piedi dal Rijksmuseum
  • Suggerimento: porta con te una macchina fotografica per immortalare la bellezza paesaggistica dei canali di Amsterdam. Avrai delle splendide opportunità fotografiche durante tutta la crociera!
  • La crociera è accessibile a chi usa la carrozzina o il passeggino.
  • I passeggini sono disponibili su richiesta.
  • Gli animali domestici sono ammessi.

crociera con cena sul canale di amsterdam-1

Crociera con cena sul canale di Amsterdam

  • Puoi cancellare questi biglietti fino a 48 ore prima dell'inizio dell'esperienza e ottenere un rimborso completo.
  • Idea per un appuntamento: una crociera serale con cena tra i canali di Amsterdam. Con questo biglietto avrai proprio questo!
  • Goditi una cena di classe mondiale di 4 portate preparata dallo chef gourmet Frans Kelders, con opzioni vegetariane, di carne e di pesce.
  • Il sogno è ancora più grande: avrai a disposizione bevande a tua scelta, tra cui birra, vino e bibite, per rendere l'esperienza ancora migliore.
  • Crociera di 2 ore
  • cena di 4 portate (menu qui )
  • Bevande in omaggio: birra, vino, bevande analcoliche
  • Trasferimenti da e per l'hotel

Crociere sul canale LOVERS Amsterdam

  • a 5 minuti a piedi dalla stazione di Amsterdam Centraal
  • La crociera è accessibile alle sedie a rotelle.

crociera serale in barca di lusso sul canale di amsterdam-1

Crociera serale in barca di lusso sul canale di Amsterdam

  • Questa crociera dopo il tramonto su un battello di lusso fa rivivere la città di Amsterdam, con tutti i suoi ponti illuminati a giorno.
  • Il tuo skipper e la tua guida esperta che parla inglese ti illustreranno la cultura della città e i luoghi più divertenti che potrai visitare!
  • Partendo dalla Casa di Anna Frank, esplorerai l'elegante quartiere Jordaan, il Magere Brug (Ponte Magro) e l'Ansa d'Oro.
  • Per rendere le cose ancora più comode, puoi scegliere tra 3 punti d'imbarco: il Red Light District, il molo della Stazione Centrale o il molo della Casa di Anna Frank.
  • Crociera sui canali di 1 ora a bordo di una barca di lusso
  • Skipper locale ed esperto e guida in lingua inglese
  • Coperte disponibili
  • Partenza dal Red Light District/Central Station Pier/Anne Frank House Pier (come da opzione selezionata)
  • Pasti e bevande

Quartiere a luci rosse

  • 2 minuti a piedi dal Palazzo Reale di Amsterdam
  • Suggerimento: se hai bisogno di consigli o suggerimenti su come esplorare meglio la città, non esitare a chiedere alla tua guida.
  • Gli animali sono ammessi a bordo.
  • L'attività è accessibile a persone con passeggino.

combo: biglietto d'ingresso al museo van gogh + crociera sul canale di amsterdam con la blue boat per 75 minuti-1

Combo: Biglietto d'ingresso al Museo Van Gogh + crociera sul canale di Amsterdam con la Blue Boat per 75 minuti

17% di sconto

  • Scopri una sana dose di storia e arte olandese grazie a questo conveniente biglietto combinato con una crociera sui canali di Amsterdam e l'ingresso al Museo Van Gogh.
  • Entra nel mondo artistico del Museo Van Gogh, dove potrai ammirare i capolavori dell'artista olandese, tra cui i suoi famosi dipinti floreali come gli Iris.
  • Oltre alle famose opere di Van Gogh, potrai ammirare anche la brillante arte dei suoi contemporanei, come ad esempio Una veduta di Amsterdam di Monet.
  • Salpa per una crociera di 75 minuti attraverso i canali di Amsterdam, dichiarati patrimonio dell'umanità dall'UNESCO, a bordo di un'imbarcazione della Blue Boat Company.
  • Passa davanti alle principali attrazioni di Amsterdam, come la Casa di Anna Frank e il Municipio, mentre assaggi gli spuntini della tua snack box, se hai scelto l'upgrade del biglietto che la include.

Van Gogh Museum

  • Ingresso a orario prefissato al Van Gogh Museum

Crociera sui canali

  • Crociera sui canali di 75 minuti
  • Suggerimento: Visita il negozio del museo per acquistare souvenir unici ispirati alle opere di Van Gogh.
  • Questa esperienza è accessibile alle sedie a rotelle, alle carrozzine e ai passeggini.
  • All'interno del museo non sono ammesse borse più grandi di un foglio formato A4.
  • La fascia oraria prenotata sarà destinata all'ingresso al Van Gogh Museum.

Suggerimento: mentre attraversi i vari quartieri potrai vedere splendidi esempi di street art e fotografare bellissimi murales colorati che adornano edifici e muri

  • Il voucher per la tua crociera sul canale è un "biglietto aperto", il che significa che non è stata assegnata alcuna fascia oraria e che potrai salire a bordo di qualsiasi imbarcazione disponibile al molo.
  • Questi biglietti non possono essere cancellati o riprogrammati.

combo: biglietti rijksmuseum + crociera sul canale di amsterdam-1

  • Combo: Biglietti Rijksmuseum + Crociera sul canale di Amsterdam
  • Riempi due importanti tappe della tua lista dei desideri di Amsterdam risparmiando un bel po': Il Rijksmuseum e una crociera di 60 minuti sui canali della città.
  • Salta le file ed esplora il Rijksmuseum al tuo ritmo, ammirando i capolavori olandesi come l'Autoritratto di Van Gogh e la Lattaia di Vermeer.****
  • Parti per una crociera sul fiume Amstel e scopri tutte le tappe iconiche lungo il percorso con un'audioguida multilingue.
  • Potenzia i tuoi biglietti per aggiungere un po' di sapore alla tua avventura: una crociera di 75 minuti con una scatola di snack contenente deliziosi bocconcini e una bevanda.
  • crociera sui canali da 60 o 75 minuti
  • Ingresso al Rijksmuseum
  • Audioguida in inglese, francese, tedesco, ebraico, spagnolo, tailandese, turco, catalano, cinese, olandese, hindi, indonesiano, italiano, giapponese, arabo, polacco, portoghese e russo
  • Scatola di snack (opzionale)
  • Crociera per bambini e storia audio gratuita con ogni biglietto per bambini (opzionale)
  • Auricolari, se necessario (facoltativo)
  • Ingresso alla mostra di Vermeer
  • Tour multimediale del museo (acquistabile al museo al prezzo di 5 €)

Rijksmuseum

  • Devi entrare al Rijksmuseum nella fascia oraria selezionata, ma puoi rimanere quanto vuoi.
  • Il museo è accessibile alle persone in sedia a rotelle. Puoi anche prendere in prestito una sedia a rotelle, un rollator, un passeggino, un bastone da passeggio o uno sgabello pieghevole da museo.
  • I cani guida sono i benvenuti al museo e alla crociera.
  • Non c'è una fascia oraria assegnata per la crociera. Per informazioni precise sul rimborso, segui le istruzioni riportate sul voucher.

combo: ingresso diretto alla heineken experience + biglietti per la crociera sul canale di amsterdam-1

Combo: Ingresso diretto alla Heineken Experience + biglietti per la crociera sul canale di Amsterdam

  • Questo biglietto è una brillante combinazione di 2 esperienze veramente olandesi ! Risparmia tempo e denaro con questa combinazione di crociera sui canali e ingresso al birrificio Heineken.
  • Goditi una crociera di 75 minuti lungo il sito Venice of the North e scopri di più su questo sito Patrimonio dell'Umanità dell'UNESCO con un'audioguida disponibile in 14 lingue.
  • Puoi scegliere di aggiornare la tua crociera includendo uno snackbox, che riceverai prima di salire a bordo.
  • Il biglietto ti permette anche di entrare nell'Heineken Experience, un tour autoguidato di 90 minuti del gigantesco birrificio.
  • Scopri i segreti di questo grande produttore di birra sorseggiando 2 drink gratuiti!
  • crociera di 75 minuti lungo il Canale di Amsterdam
  • Biglietto "Skip-the-line" per l'esperienza Heineken
  • tour autoguidato di 90 minuti del birrificio Heineken
  • Una scatola di snack contenente patatine, popcorn, biscotti al formaggio, noccioline salate e una bibita a scelta (opzionale)
  • Le sedie a rotelle saranno fornite all'Heineken Experience dopo il deposito di una quota rimborsabile di 100€.
  • La crociera è anche accessibile alle sedie a rotelle.

crociera alcolica sul canale di amsterdam con bevande illimitate-1

Crociera alcolica sul canale di Amsterdam con bevande illimitate

  • Bevande illimitate? Hai visto bene! Goditi birra, vino e bibite illimitate durante una crociera attraverso i canali di Amsterdam, famosi in tutto il mondo.
  • Uno skipper professionista ti svelerà i segreti della città, rendendo questa esperienza divertente e istruttiva.
  • Questa crociera è la scelta ideale per trascorrere del tempo di qualità con gli amici e la famiglia e per ammirare i simboli della città come i Sette Ponti e le Case Danzanti.
  • Partendo dal Red Light District, la crociera ti porterà davanti al Museo della Scienza NEMO, alla Nave VOC e a molti altri luoghi iconici.
  • Scegli tra le opzioni di biglietto per il tipo di barca che preferisci e fai l'upgrade per includere un biglietto d'ingresso alla discoteca!
  • Crociera sui canali di Amsterdam
  • Barca coperta/barca di lusso (secondo l'opzione selezionata)
  • 2 o illimitate bevande: birra, vino e soda (come da opzione selezionata)
  • Skipper professionista e host locale
  • Ingresso al night club (facoltativo)
  • Suggerimento: Tieni d'occhio le case danzanti, conosciute localmente come De Dansende Huizen. A causa del terreno morbido e argilloso, queste case sono leggermente inclinate, conferendo loro un aspetto pittoresco.
  • Solo gli ospiti di età superiore ai 18 anni possono bere.
  • È consentito introdurre cibo e bevande dall'esterno

i amsterdam city card: più di 70 attrazioni-1

I Amsterdam City Card: più di 70 attrazioni

  • Scopri il meglio di Amsterdam con questa comoda I Amsterdam City Card all-inclusive che offre accesso a più di 70 attrazioni.
  • La Card offre una validità flessibile di 24 ore, 48 ore, 72 ore, 96 ore o 120 ore tra cui scegliere.
  • Entrate gratuitamente al Rijksmuseum, un museo nazionale dedicato alle arti e alla storia olandese, all'H'ART, al Moco Museum e molto altro ancora!
  • Usufruisci di sconti del 25% presso caffè selezionati e attrazioni come l'Heineken Experience, oltre a un noleggio di biciclette 24 ore su 24.
  • Naviga in città con l'accesso gratuito e illimitato all'efficiente sistema di trasporto pubblico di Amsterdam (GVB), compresi tram e autobus.
  • Ammira l'architettura della città, i ponti pittoreschi e le viste sul lungofiume durante una piacevole crociera sul canale della durata di un'ora.
  • Validità di 24/48/72/96/120 ore
  • Accesso alle attrazioni: Heineken Experience, Artis Royal Zoo, crociera sui canali e altro ancora
  • Accesso alle attività all'aperto: crociera sui canali offerta da Blue Boat Company, Klimbos Fun Forest, tour a piedi di Amsterdam e molto altro
  • Utilizzo illimitato dei trasporti pubblici GVB (autobus, tram e metropolitana)
  • Omaggi e sconti per concerti, teatri, noleggi e altro ancora
  • Suggerimento: Amsterdam è piena di cose interessanti da acquistare come souvenir per gli amici a casa, ma consigliamo di non perdere l'occasione di comprare gli zoccoli di legno di Zaanse Schans o le ceramiche bianche e blu di Delft.
  • Nota: la nostra offerta ti permetterà di risparmiare visto che acquistare separatamente i biglietti per le attrazioni costa molto di più rispetto al prezzo di questa City Card.
  • Ordina la tua City Card online.
  • Il trasporto da/per l'aeroporto di Schipol non è incluso nel pass.
  • I Amsterdam City Card è ora un prodotto digitale accessibile tramite l'app City Card.
  • Attiva la tua Card seguendo le istruzioni riportate sul voucher che riceverai dopo la tua prenotazione. Puoi scegliere tu quando attivare la tua City Card. La Card viene attivata al primo utilizzo.
  • Usa la tua Card per visitare i punti di interesse inclusi nella City Card: basta visualizzare la Card sul tuo smartphone e mostrarla agli addetti all'ingresso. Puoi semplicemente scannerizzare la tua Card quando sali su qualsiasi autobus, tram o metropolitana per accomodarti a bordo.
  • Clicca qui per vedere la mappa.

Una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam: scopri al meglio l'incredibile capitale olandese

Una crociera sui canali di Amsterdam ti farà scoprire un mix unico di storia e cultura nei vivaci e pittoreschi quartieri della città. Con oltre 100 km di corsi d'acqua costellati da più di 1500 ponti incantevoli e 90 isole, una crociera ad Amsterdam sui canali è un'esperienza tipica che ti permetterà di passare vicino ad attrazioni come la Casa di Anna Frank, il Rijksmuseum e tante altre. I canali, dichiarati Patrimonio dell'Umanità dall'UNESCO, sono una parte viva e pulsante della cultura olandese.

Che tu preferisca una tranquilla escursione diurna o una magica crociera serale ad Amsterdam, troverai l'opzione giusta per te.

Una guida alle crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam

Perché fare una crociera sui canali ad amsterdam.

  • Cosa devo sapere prima di prenotare una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam?
  • Your cruise options
  • Trova la crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam giusta per te
  • Crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam: una mappa

Punti di imbarco per le crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam

  • Scopri di più sulle crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam
  • Quali attrazioni vedrai in una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam?
  • Pianifica la tua crociera
  • Domande frequenti sui biglietti per le crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam

canal cruise amsterdam orari

Una vista impareggiabile su Amsterdam

Naviga dolcemente su una barca, con i luoghi simbolo della città che si aprono davanti ai tuoi occhi. I canali di Amsterdam hanno un fascino innegabile che emana romanticismo e tranquillità. Dall'architettura secolare alle meraviglie moderne, la vista dai canali offre una prospettiva unica che non puoi ottenere sulla terraferma.

Una vera esperienza olandese

I canali sono parte integrante dell'identità di Amsterdam. Navigando lungo queste vie d'acqua, ti immergi nell'essenza stessa della cultura e della storia olandese. Sarà come entrare in una cartolina vivente.

Informazioni approfondite sulla città

Molte crociere sui canali di Amsterdam sono accompagnate da guide esperte che condividono storie affascinanti e approfondimenti sulla storia, l'architettura e la cultura della città. È come avere una guida turistica personale, che arricchisce la tua esperienza e approfondisce il tuo apprezzamento per Amsterdam.

Ricordi indimenticabili

Sui canali, ogni angolo offre uno spettacolo incredibile. Alla fine della tua crociera sui canali di Amsterdam, i ricordi che creerai saranno indelebili.

Comodità e comfort

Esplorare una città a piedi può essere faticoso. Con una crociera sui canali puoi sederti, rilassarti e lasciare che la città passi davanti ai tuoi occhi. Prenotando la tua crociera sui canali di Amsterdam, potrai godere di un posto in prima fila, a basso costo, per scoprire il fascino di Amsterdam e visitare diverse attrazioni in un breve periodo di tempo!

Crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam: quale scegliere?

  • Se hai un budget limitato, opta per una crociera sui canali di Amsterdam : sono l'opzione più economica e durano 60-90 minuti a seconda del biglietto prenotato.
  • Ad Amsterdam puoi optare per una crociera con snack o una crociera con cena : scegli il menù più adatto alle tue preferenze alimentari prima di prenotare i biglietti.
  • Prendi in considerazione una crociera serale ad Amsterdam per ammirare la città nel suo splendore al tramonto o di notte. Puoi anche scegliere di abbinare una cena.
  • La scelta della crociera dipende dall'esperienza che vuoi fare. Esistono crociere Hop-on Hop-off o puoi prenotare un biglietto combinato per accedere anche ad altre attrazioni.
  • La maggior parte dei biglietti per le crociere sui canali di Amsterdam può essere cancellata o riprogrammata. Controlla la politica di cancellazione dei biglietti prima di prenotarli: nella maggior parte dei casi puoi cancellare fino a 24 ore prima dell'inizio e ottenere un rimborso completo.

Quale crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam scegliere?

crociera amsterdam

Crociere panoramiche

  • Ammira i panoramici canali di Amsterdam e il ricco patrimonio della città mentre ammiri i punti di riferimento più famosi durante la tua crociera turistica.
  • Vivi un'esperienza informativa e coinvolgente con un'audio-guida in 19 lingue.

Durata: 60-90 minuti

Esperienze consigliate:

  • Crociera serale sui canali di Amsterdam
  • Crociera all'aperto sui canali di Amsterdam con vino e formaggio opzionali

crociera canali amsterdam

Crociere con cena

  • Immergiti nella bellezza di Amsterdam con una crociera con 4 portate, vino, formaggio o snack.
  • Lasciati tentare da una varietà di esperienze culinarie, da pizze e pancake a un pasto completo.

Durata: 90-120 minuti

  • Crociera sui canali di Amsterdam con cena
  • Crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam a lume di candela con vino e formaggio olandese

crociera canali amsterdam quale scegliere

Crociere in porto

  • Ammira le viste panoramiche del porto di Amsterdam, il più grande porto di cacao e petrolio del mondo, e scopri la sua storia.
  • Esplora lo storico cantiere NDSM o la Zaanse Schans con le deliziose pietanze e bevande a bordo.

Durata: 2-6 ore

  • Tour del porto di Amsterdam
  • Zaanse Schans: tour in barca del villaggio dei mulini a vento da Amsterdam

giro sul battello amsterdam

Biglietti combinati

  • Risparmia tempo e denaro con un biglietto combinato e abbina la tua lussuosa crociera sui canali di Amsterdam a una visita a una delle attrazioni più popolari della città.
  • Scegli tra un'audio-guida o una guida in carne e ossa per un'esperienza più approfondita presso il punto di riferimento di tua scelta.

Durata: flessibile

  • Combo: Biglietti per Madame Tussauds + crociera sui canali di Amsterdam di 75 minuti con audioguida

Trova la crociera ad Amsterdam giusta per te

Mappa del percorso delle crociere sui canali ad amsterdam.

canal cruise amsterdam orari

La maggior parte dei battelli parte da uno di questi quattro punti di attracco, a meno che non sia indicato diversamente sul biglietto. I dettagli sul punto di partenza e le istruzioni specifiche per la partenza saranno fornite nel biglietto e ogni località è comodamente raggiungibile.

Blue Boat Company

  • Heineken Experience (fermata del tram: Vijzelgracht ; stazione della metropolitana: Vijzelgracht )
  • Hard Rock Café (fermata del tram: Rijksmuseum ; stazione della metropolitana: Vijzelgracht )
  • Stazione centrale (stazione della metropolitana: Stazione centrale )
  • Casa di Anna Frank (stazione della metropolitana: Central Station ; fermata del tram: Westermarkt )
  • Raggiungi il punto di partenza designato 15 minuti prima dell'inizio della crociera per evitare di perderla.
  • Porta con te un documento d'identità valido con foto per riscattare il biglietto al punto di partenza.

Pianifica la tua crociera sui canali di Amsterdam

crociera canali amsterdam

  • Crociera serale su una barca di lusso: dalle 17:15 alle 22:00
  • Crociera serale nel quartiere a luci rosse con Open Bar: dalle 20:00 alle 21:15
  • Crociera sui canali di Amsterdam con New York Pizza: dalle 18:00 alle 23:00
  • Crociera con pancake ad Amsterdam: dalle 17:45 alle 23:00
  • Biglietti per il Rijksmuseum + 1 ora di crociera sui canali di Amsterdam: dalle 9:00 alle 17:00
  • Biglietti per il Museo Van Gogh + 1 ora di crociera sui canali di Amsterdam: dalle 9:00 alle 17:00

Queste crociere ti permettono di selezionare un punto di partenza in base alle tue preferenze. Gli orari variano a seconda del punto di partenza; verificali al momento dell'acquisto.

crociera sui canali di amsterdam

Il periodo migliore dell'anno:

Alta stagione : il periodo migliore per fare una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam è tra aprile e ottobre, quando il clima è piacevole. Questo periodo, però, è più affollato e le esperienze costano di più. Aspettati lunghe file, attrazioni affollate e crociere con il tutto esaurito.

Bassa stagione : se vuoi evitare la folla, prenota la tua crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam tra novembre e marzo. Anche se le temperature sono più basse, in questi mesi c'è meno folla, i prezzi sono ridotti e puoi anche risparmiare su voli, alloggi e biglietti.

Il momento migliore della giornata:

Se vuoi fare altro, oltre alla tua crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam, opta per un'esperienza durante il giorno. Potresti prenotare dei tour combinati per risparmiare tempo e denaro. Se invece vuoi ammirare il tramonto o cenare, opta per una crociera serale o con cena, per un'esperienza più tranquilla e romantica.

Heineken Experience

  • In tram: 1, 7, 19, 24 (Vijzelgracht)
  • In metropolitana: 52 (Vijzelgracht)

Hard Rock Café

  • In tram: 1, 3, 7, 19 (Rijksmuseum)
  • In metropolitana: 51, 52, 53, 54 (Stazione centrale)
  • In treno: Intercity, Sprinter (Stazione centrale)

Casa di Anna Frank

  • In metropolitana: 51, 53, 54 (Stazione centrale)
  • In tram: 13, 17 (Westermarkt)

Nota: questi sono i punti di imbarco più comuni. Il tuo punto d'imbarco può variare a seconda della tua esperienza: controlla i dettagli sui biglietti.

crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam

  • Arriva in anticipo: ti consigliamo di arrivare circa 15 minuti prima della partenza per scegliere un buon posto a sedere sulla barca e sistemarti prima dell'inizio della crociera.
  • Porta con te un documento d'identità: porta con te un documento d'identità valido durante la tua crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam.
  • Scegli le crociere guidate: è meglio scegliere crociere sui canali che includano una guida professionale o un'audio-guida per un'esperienza più informativa e memorabile.
  • Controlla il tempo : i tour in barca aperta sono l'ideale per ammirare una vista impeccabile dei monumenti di Amsterdam. Tuttavia, assicurati di controllare il meteo prima di prenotare.
  • Controlla i dettagli prima di acquistare : verifica tutti i dettagli prima di prenotare la tua crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam. Controlla gli orari, i punti di partenza, le esclusioni, le inclusioni e altri dettagli.
  • Prenota in anticipo : è consigliabile prenotare i biglietti online in anticipo per assicurarsi il posto, soprattutto nei periodi di maggiore affluenza turistica.

crociera sui canali ad amsterdam

  • Cocktail Cruise with a Stocked Bar: Damrak Gin, birra Heineken, vini, acqua (gassata), Gin Tonic
  • Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Wine & Cheese: formaggio, birra, vino e bevande analcoliche
  • Crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam con cena: pasto di 4 portate ( Menu )
  • Crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam con pancake a volontà: pancake, condimenti, bevande
  • Crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam con pizza: pizza ( Menu ), bevande, dessert

crociera sui canali ad amsterdam

  • Mappa della città gratuita su tutte le barche Lovers
  • Audioguide GPS in più lingue
  • Ufficio oggetti smarriti
  • Riscaldatori
  • Servizi igienici
  • Accessibilità alle sedie a rotelle (solo per le crociere con la Blue Boat)
  • Opzioni di ristorazione

I luoghi più importanti da visitare durante una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam

crociera sui canali ad amsterdam

Museo Marittimo

Dedicato al museo marittimo del paese, il Museo Marittimo Nazionale di Amsterdam ospita manufatti legati alla navigazione e alla vela, tra cui dipinti, modelli in scala, armi e mappe del mondo. Costruito nel 1656, si trova in un ex magazzino navale.

crociera sui canali ad amsterdam

I ponti che puoi vedere durante la tua crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam

Domande frequenti sui biglietti per la crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam

Puoi scegliere tra crociere turistiche, serali, con cena e sul porto. Se vuoi vedere Amsterdam e i suoi canali in tutto il loro splendore, una crociera sui canali è l'opzione perfetta. Opta per una crociera serale se vuoi vedere la città prendere vita, mentre alcune delle attrazioni più popolari e gli accoglienti caffè sulle sue rive iniziano a illuminarsi e riempirsi. Abbina questa vista spettacolare a un pasto di 4 portate e a un drink durante una crociera con cena. E se vuoi saperne di più, visita i porti e i villaggi vicino ad Amsterdam con una crociera sul porto.

Sì, esistono le crociere serali. Puoi fare la crociera serale sui canali di Amsterdam della durata di 90 minuti con audio-guida in 21 lingue o la crociera serale di lusso sui canali di Amsterdam della durata di 1 ora . Entrambe le opzioni servono bevande. Puoi scegliere di aggiornare i tuoi biglietti con coperte calde e guide esperte dal vivo per un'esperienza più coinvolgente.

Una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam può costare da 14,50 a 45 euro a seconda dell'esperienza prenotata. Una crociera turistica standard include un'audioguida disponibile in diverse lingue. Tuttavia, puoi anche acquistare snack e bevande durante la crociera a un prezzo aggiuntivo. Le crociere con cena offrono una tranquilla crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam con un pasto di 4 portate e bevande. I biglietti combinati, anche se a prima vista più costosi, offrono l'ingresso ad altre attrazioni popolari di Amsterdam oltre alla crociera, risparmiandoti la fatica di prenotare biglietti separati.

La maggior parte dei biglietti per la crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam esclude la tassa di soggiorno di 1,50€ a persona che deve essere pagata in loco.

Prenotare i biglietti in anticipo è sempre un'ottima idea, poiché le prenotazioni in giornata sono spesso più costose. Per chi viaggia con la famiglia, i bambini sotto i 14 anni approfittano di prezzi scontati e i neonati sotto i 3 anni viaggiano gratis. Tuttavia, non dimenticare di portare con te un documento d'identità da mostrare all'imbarco. Un altro ottimo consiglio per risparmiare: prenota i biglietti per un giorno feriale perché alcune crociere offrono prezzi scontati in questi giorni.

La maggior parte delle crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam prevede una politica di cancellazione flessibile. Se prenoti i biglietti per le crociere sui canali online, puoi cancellarli fino a 24 ore prima dell'inizio dell'esperienza e ottenere un rimborso completo dell'acquisto.

Indipendentemente dal tipo di crociera che scegli, la maggior parte delle crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam dura 60-90 minuti. Le crociere nei porti possono durare fino a 2 ore.

Durante una crociera sui canali ad Amsterdam, passerai accanto ad attrazioni popolari come il Museo della Scienza NEMO, la Casa di Anna Frank, il Museo dell'Hermitage e il Teatro Reale Carre, a molti dei famosi ponti di Amsterdam, tra cui il Magere Brug, a strade panoramiche e quartieri caratteristici come De Negen Straatjes e L'Ansa d'Oro e, naturalmente, ai canali di Amsterdam che si estendono per oltre 100 km.

La maggior parte delle crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam è dotata di un'audioguida GPS disponibile in 19-21 lingue come spagnolo, tailandese, turco, catalano, cinese, olandese, inglese, francese, tedesco, ebraico, hindi, indonesiano, italiano, giapponese, arabo, polacco, portoghese e russo a seconda del biglietto acquistato. Alcuni biglietti includono anche una guida in carne e ossa che risponderà a qualsiasi domanda. Tuttavia, le crociere con cena non includono una guida.

Solo le imbarcazioni della compagnia Blue Boat offrono queste crociere. Le barche accessibili alle sedie a rotelle partono solo dal molo di fronte all'Hard Rock Cafe, uno dei quattro principali punti di attracco delle crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam.

Sì, è possibile portare i propri animali domestici su alcune crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam, ma controlla prima i dettagli del biglietto. La crociera Open Boat Amsterdam di 1 ora con vino e formaggio opzionali e la crociera serale in barca di lusso di 1 ora ad Amsterdam permettono di portare animali a bordo.

Sebbene la maggior parte dei tour turistici non includa i pasti, puoi potenziare i tuoi biglietti per le crociere sui canali per includere una snackbox, che ti verrà consegnata dopo l'imbarco. In alternativa, puoi prenotare una crociera con cena per avere un pasto di 4 portate durante la crociera.

Alcune crociere sui canali ad Amsterdam sono dotate di una mappa gratuita della città, di un'audioguida GPS in più lingue e di stufe. La maggior parte delle barche (tranne quelle aperte) sono dotate di servizi igienici.

Il Festival delle Luci di Amsterdam è un evento annuale in cui artisti rinomati provenienti da tutto il mondo si riuniscono per creare installazioni luminose mozzafiato lungo i suoi canali storici. Se visiti Amsterdam tra novembre e gennaio, puoi prenotare delle crociere speciali per assistere a queste installazioni.

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About captain jack amsterdam.

Hi Guys, my name is Jeroen, a typical dutch name and hard to pronounce if you don’t speak dutch.

So I got the nickname Jack or Skipper Jack Amsterdam. That last part I got because of my knowledge of the city.

I was born and raised in this beautiful city, Amsterdam.

I have seen a lot of places in the world. But nothing feels so much like home as this city. The friendly and open-minded people of Amsterdam will immediately give you that great feeling of home.

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Why some residents of European hot spots just want tourists to stay away

A crowd of protesters marching on a city street, many hoisting banners and one with a homemade sign reading "Tourist go home"

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For people who live in particularly picturesque quarters of charming European cities, the words “Instagrammable” or “Tik-Tok famous” can feel like harbingers of doom.

Or harbingers, at the very least, of intense annoyance.

Across the continent, this has been a summer of visitor-related discontent. The stresses of over-tourism sometimes spur irate displays directed at outsiders — such as attention-grabbing anti-tourist protests in Barcelona last month, with demonstrators wielding water pistols, or hostile graffiti popping up in places like Athens.

  • Read the companion piece: How not to be a terrible tourist: What Europeans want travelers to know

In some of the more iconic way stations on Europe’s tourist trail — Amsterdam and Santorini, Prague and Bruges, Dubrovnik and Florence — the downsides of being all-too-well-loved destinations are becoming more and more apparent. At the same time, tourism projections point to an even more crushing influx in years to come.

Two pedestrians, one pulling a suitcase, pass a building with black graffiti reading "Turist go home" and "Refugees welcome"

Even in areas where the economy is heavily dependent on tourism — or perhaps particularly in such places — activists are increasingly vocal about travel practices that drive up prices , strain services, hurt the environment and erode the quality of daily life.

A big event like the Summer Olympics in Paris can sometimes have a paradoxical effect — drawing those who want to attend, but at the same time putting off others who fear inflated prices and unmanageable throngs.

With the Games ending this weekend, initial visitor tallies pointed to an overall bump, but thinner-than-usual crowds and last-minute price cuts in areas away from the main sports venues.

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When disgruntled feelings erupt, sometimes it’s the result of tourists behaving badly — in some cases, very badly indeed. But through sheer dint of numbers, even well-intentioned visitors can be a burden.

“There’s this phenomenon of all of us considering travel a right, of thinking, ‘Well, I’m allowed to go anywhere,’” said Charel van Dam, marketing director for the Netherlands Board of Tourism. “But there are obligations to fulfill that have to do with how we travel, and how we behave when we travel.”

The Netherlands, for example, expects around 60 million annual visitors by decade’s end — dwarfing the country’s population of about 18 million. Such lopsided numbers are common across Europe.

Grumbling about excess visitors is nothing new. In recent months, though, the local backlash has been making headlines.

The Barcelona protesters, incensed by skyrocketing rents linked to short-term holiday rentals, doused open-air diners in the famed Ramblas district — a gesture that tourism officials insisted did not reflect widespread public sentiment.

Elsewhere in Spain, street marches have popped up repeatedly on the island of Mallorca, where demonstrators brandished cardboard models of sleek private jets and cruise ships to decry the arrival of what they say are overwhelming numbers of visitors.

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Travelers’ affronts in Europe’s tourist zones are sometimes glaringly apparent: pounding music from late-night parties, or puddles of vomit on doorsteps in quiet residential streets. But the slights can be subtler as well.

“Sometimes, I feel like they think I’m just part of the scenery,” said Janeta Olszewska, a 29-year-old emigree from Poland who works in Amsterdam’s famous floating flower market. “It’s so strange when visitors can’t even say ‘Good morning’ before they begin telling me what they want.”

In some locales, the business of promoting tourism has morphed into brainstorming over ways to manage and contain it. In Venice, where the tourist tide is as much a hazard as the seasonal acqua alta, authorities began charging day-trippers a 5-euro fee (about $5.40) in April.

But critics protested that the $2.4 million in revenue the city took in over a period of three months only pointed up the magnitude of the overcrowding problem.

“It was a great failure,” Giovanni Andrea Martini, a Venice City Council member who opposed the program, said in an email.

A tourist taking a selfie on a dock in front of several floating gondolas, ornate buildings visible across a stretch of water

“It was supposed to be a system for managing tourism flow, but it didn’t manage anything — tourists entered the city in greater numbers than on the same days last year.”

Some European cities, including Copenhagen, have embarked on a carrot-not-a-stick approach. A pilot program that began in the Danish capital last month, dubbed CopenPay , offers small perks like free ice cream to visitors who engage in eco-friendly behaviors such as picking up trash or using public transport.

Other venues are trying a dual track: Amsterdam, for example, is seeking to crack down on public drunkenness, discourage gawkers in the famous red-light district and curtail holiday apartment rentals — going so far as to inaugurate a “Stay Away” campaign aimed mainly at British stag partyers — while enticing visitors to venture outside the tiny confines of the city’s canal-lined center.

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“You do catch more flies with honey than vinegar,” said Van Dam, the Netherlands’ tourism marketer, citing the success of sustainability initiatives such as hotels giving guests a free drink in the bar if they decline daily room cleaning.

Industry professionals and municipal authorities acknowledge that tourism is a trade-off: often an economic boon, sometimes a social bane.

In heavily touristed parts of Amsterdam, access to ordinary goods and services tends to dry up up as the commercial balance tips toward the wants and needs of visitors. Want an Aperol spritz, some CBD oil, or a ceramic Dutch-clog refrigerator magnet? No problem. But residents say finding penny nails or laundry pods or a spatula can involve a tiring trek.

Boats full of people jam a waterway near a bridge crowded with pedestrians, as a woman in the foreground downs a canned drink

Sometimes, touristic obsessions are a source of bafflement. At central Amsterdam’s landmark Athanaeum bookstore, whose eclectic periodicals draw a loyal clientele from across Europe, customers and staff alike were briefly mystified by the long queues at a nearby koekmakerij — a cookie shop.

They quickly figured it out: The place was all over Instagram.

“It was only one particular kind of cookie, and at first we thought, ‘How can that even work as a business?’” said Reny van der Kamp, 59, who has worked at the bookstore for more than 20 years. “Well, we found out. They actually had to have crowd control.”

Eventually, the cookie purveyor moved to bigger quarters about a quarter of a mile away. On a recent summer morning, the line stretched out the door.

Often, the public-nuisance aspect of tourism is confined to a small area of a given city, but then creeps gradually outward. Amsterdam’s Jordaan district, within the central ring of canals but traditionally a quiet residential area, is now frequented by selfie-snapping visitors — many of them drawn by rapturous descriptions on social media of the neighborhood’s winsome domesticity.

“Now and then, people actually crane their necks to look into our windows,” said Ricky Weissman, 43, an American special-effects designer who moved to the Jordaan a decade ago with his wife. “And you’ll see someone peeing on the side of someone’s house — it’s like, ‘Why? You can find a bathroom anywhere!’”

A moped parked outside a small, tidy building next to a raised drawbridge as several people on foot or bicycle wait to cross

But he considers such intrusions to be offset by the surroundings. Their daughter, born here, is 5 now, and speaks Dutch and English.

“It’s a fairy tale, really, living here,” Weissman said.

Locals’ cherished routines are often disrupted, however — sometimes in dangerous ways. Commuting briskly by bicycle one day, Nashira Mora, who works as a tour-boat booker, had no time to react when a pedestrian — a visitor, she found out — suddenly came to a dead stop in the middle of the bike lane, eyes phoneward, oblivious to approaching cyclists.

“I went right over the handlebars,” the 26-year-old said ruefully. “Luckily, no one was hurt. And my bike was OK. But …” she trailed off and shook her head.

In many tourist centers, the coronavirus pandemic was a revelation for residents. For all the stress and isolation of lockdowns, and the immense tragedy of lives lost to the virus, landmarks usually avoided because of visiting hordes were suddenly empty — and fully revealed in all their glory.

Scores of people standing in a long line as others walk around St. Peter's Square in Vatican City

“It did perhaps make people think about what it would be like to have their own city back,” said Mari Janssen, a 25-year-old studying Russian literature.

Locals and tourists often lead separate but parallel existences, more or less ignoring one another’s presence. The two worlds bump up against each other in places like the Albert Cuyps market, one of Amsterdam’s largest collections of open-air vendors.

Some merchants — a cheesemonger, a produce vendor, a baker — said that they had long counted local householders as their main customers, but that picnic-sized portions for tourists yielded cash bonanzas.

The change in the market’s character, however, was wearing on some. At a stand selling stroopwafel — a sweet concoction of layered wafers held together with syrup — a small group of foreign visitors began excitedly shouting orders at vendor Sylvia Lassing, 63, even as she was handing someone else their change.

“It’s a lot, sometimes,” she sighed during a lull a few minutes later.

A flower seller, asked about the tourist trade, irritably mimed how some outsiders would manhandle his delicate blooms — brilliant purple irises and Van Gogh-worthy sunflowers — and then walk away without buying anything. But he understood, he said, that few would want to take a perishable bouquet to the airport or a hotel room.

As a visitor turned to leave after chatting with him, though, he waved his hands in an emphatic gesture to halt them.

“Wait, wait!” he said. “Here, have a daisy.”

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