Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Best boat tours and tickets for canal cruises in Amsterdam
Boat tours in the Amsterdam canals with the best tips, prices and routes for Amsterdam canal cruises, from romantic candlelight dinner cruises to boat rentals. This guide helps you choose the perfect Amsterdam canal tour.
Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam
A canal cruise in Amsterdam is one of the best ways to explore the city. From the water, you enjoy an unforgettable Amsterdam canal cruise past historic canal houses, iconic bridges and famous places to visit in Amsterdam such as the Anne Frank House and the Skinny Bridge. There are many types of canal cruises available, ranging from classic sightseeing cruises to relaxing evening cruises and luxury boat tours with dinner or drinks included. In the guide below, you’ll discover which Amsterdam boat tour best suits your visit. We compare the best providers and share practical tips and ticket options, making it easy to choose the best canal cruise in Amsterdam for your preferences.
1. Classic Amsterdam canal cruise
A classic boat tour through Amsterdam remains one of the best ways to get to know the city. The most popular option is the large canal cruise boat with a guide, which takes you past the city’s main highlights in a short time. Along the way, you’ll receive explanations from a live guide or via an audio guide about the history and famous sights. If you prefer a quieter and more atmospheric experience, choose a luxurious saloon boat. These boats are smaller, more comfortable and often feature a warm, classic interior with wooden details and large windows. In good weather, a luxury open boat is the best choice. These sightseeing boats have no roof, allowing you to sail close to the water with unobstructed views of bridges and canal houses. Make your choice below:
- Large canal cruise boat (includes an audio guide and is also the most cheapest option)
- Saloon boat cruise (with cheese and wine)
- Luxury open boat, an absolute recommendation in good weather!
2. Evening and drinks cruises
An evening canal cruise through the Amsterdam canals shows the city from a more peaceful and atmospheric side. As night falls, the city lights reflect on the water, creating an intimate and romantic setting. Many sightseeing boats have an onboard bar, allowing you to enjoy a drink while sailing past illuminated bridges and historic canal houses. Whether you choose a classic saloon boat or a modern lounge boat, cruising Amsterdam’s canals in the evening offers a completely different way to experience the city.
3. Dinner cruises
A dinner cruise in Amsterdam offers a unique way to enjoy a night out. While historic canal houses slowly pass by, you can enjoy a romantic four-course dinner served at your table on this dinner cruise. Prefer something more informal? The pizza cruise is a fun alternative, featuring freshly baked pizzas, a relaxed atmosphere and great views of the canals. For families, there is the pancake boat, which does not sail through the canals but along the IJ River. Children can enjoy unlimited pancakes (a true Dutch specialty) and a play area on board, while adults relax and take in the views.
4. Smoke & Lounge cruises
These smoke & lounge cruises are not your typical boat tour, but rather a place to relax while Amsterdam slowly drifts by. The smoke-friendly lounge boats usually feature comfortable seating and soft background music. With your own smoking supplies (cannabis use is allowed on board), optional drinks and like-minded company, these cruises focus on a laid-back atmosphere rather than guided commentary. It’s a relaxed and unhurried way to experience Amsterdam from the water.
5. Boat rental and private tours
Personally, this is my favorite way to explore Amsterdam from the water. Renting your own boat in Amsterdam gives you complete freedom: you can dock where allowed and seek out the quieter spots in the historic city center. When you rent a boat through this provider, no boating license is required. If you prefer not to steer yourself, you can opt for this private canal tour with a captain and enjoy the canals without any worries.
📌 Tips for booking a canal cruise
Which Amsterdam canal cruise suits you best mainly depends on what you are looking for. If you want to see many highlights in a short time, a classic canal cruise is ideal. For atmosphere and relaxation, evening and drinks cruises are an excellent choice, while dinner cruises are perfect for a special night out. My personal favorite: if you want maximum freedom, choose a private boat or rent your own open boat. Whatever you choose, Amsterdam always looks its best from the water. Here are some practical tips:
- Book your canal cruise online in advance, especially on weekends and during holidays. Luxury boats and open sloops often sell out quickly due to limited capacity.
- In good weather, choose an open boat or sloop for the best views.
- Prefer a quieter experience? Opt for an evening cruise or an early departure time.
- Compare routes: not every sightseeing boat sails through the same canals.
- Bring warm clothing in winter; it feels noticeably colder on the water.
- With an Amsterdam City Pass, a canal cruise is already included.
6. Amsterdam Light Festival
Every winter, Amsterdam transforms into a tranquil open-air gallery during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Illuminated artworks appear in and along the canals, creating beautiful reflections on the water. While you can explore the route on foot, the most magical way to experience the artworks is on an evening canal cruise. More information is available on the official Amsterdam Light Festival website. Boat tours are only available during the winter festival season:
FAQ: Booking a canal boat tour in Amsterdam
What is the best canal cruise in Amsterdam?
The best canal cruise in Amsterdam depends on your preferences. For a first visit, a classic sightseeing canal cruise is ideal. For atmosphere, choose an evening cruise, and for maximum freedom, opt for a private boat or open sloop.
How long does a canal cruise in Amsterdam take?
Most boat tours in Amsterdam last between 60 and 90 minutes. Private tours and dinner cruises usually take longer.
Do you need to book a canal cruise in Amsterdam in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during high season, weekends, and events such as the Amsterdam Light Festival.
How much does a canal boat trip in Amsterdam cost on average?
A standard canal boat trip costs on average between €15 and €25 per person. Luxury, dinner, and private cruises are more expensive.
What is the difference between a canal boat and an open sloop?
A canal boat is larger and usually covered, often with an audio guide. An open sloop is smaller, more luxurious, and offers unobstructed views, especially in good weather.
Are canal cruises in Amsterdam suitable for children?
Yes, many canal cruises are suitable for children. There are special family-friendly options such as the pancake boat.
Do all boats follow the same canal route?
No, routes vary by operator. Not every boat sails through the same or narrowest canals of Amsterdam.
Do canal cruises operate in bad weather?
Yes, most canal cruises operate in rainy weather as boats are usually covered. Only in extreme weather conditions may a cruise be canceled.
