Cruise through Amsterdam - Discover, dine & relax

Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
banner illustration



Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Cruise under Skinny Bridge, Bridge in Amsterdam
Canal boat cruising through Amsterdam city center with historic buildings and bridges in view.
Tourists enjoying drinks at the A'DAM Lookout in Amsterdam with a panoramic city view
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Canal boat cruising through Amsterdam city center with historic buildings and bridges in view.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing historic city center buildings.
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
one Hour Sightseeing Cruise in Amsterdam
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Cruise under Skinny Bridge, Bridge in Amsterdam
Canal boat cruising through Amsterdam city center with historic buildings and bridges in view.
Tourists enjoying drinks at the A'DAM Lookout in Amsterdam with a panoramic city view
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Canal boat cruising through Amsterdam city center with historic buildings and bridges in view.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing historic city center buildings.
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
one Hour Sightseeing Cruise in Amsterdam
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Cruise under Skinny Bridge, Bridge in Amsterdam
Canal boat cruising through Amsterdam city center with historic buildings and bridges in view.
Tourists enjoying drinks at the A'DAM Lookout in Amsterdam with a panoramic city view
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
Canal boat cruising through Amsterdam city center with historic buildings and bridges in view.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing historic city center buildings.
Amsterdam canal boat cruising past historic city center buildings.
one Hour Sightseeing Cruise in Amsterdam
4.4(2.7K)

Amsterdam: 1-Hour City Centre Sightseeing Cruise

1 hr. - 75 hr.
Free cancellation
from €20
€15.50

23% off

5 boarding points available
Multilingual audioguide
View popular sights like Anne Frank House, Red Light District, Westerkerk Church +20 more
All photos
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Luxury boat cruising Amsterdam canals at sunset.
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Audio guide
Luxury boat cruising through Amsterdam's illuminated canals during evening tour.
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Lovers, showcasing a serene view of the city's illuminated architecture reflected in the calm waters
Classic boat cruise on Amsterdam canal with cheese and wine experience.
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Luxury boat cruising Amsterdam canals at sunset.
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Audio guide
Luxury boat cruising through Amsterdam's illuminated canals during evening tour.
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Lovers, showcasing a serene view of the city's illuminated architecture reflected in the calm waters
Classic boat cruise on Amsterdam canal with cheese and wine experience.
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Luxury boat cruising Amsterdam canals at sunset.
Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Audio guide
Luxury boat cruising through Amsterdam's illuminated canals during evening tour.
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Lovers, showcasing a serene view of the city's illuminated architecture reflected in the calm waters
Classic boat cruise on Amsterdam canal with cheese and wine experience.
Evening Amsterdam Canal Cruise
4.0(279)

Amsterdam: Sightseeing Evening Canal Cruise

1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.
Free cancellation
from
€21.95
3 boarding points available
Multilingual audioguide
View popular sights like Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Seven Bridges View Point, Skinny Bridge +7 more
All photos
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks.
Open boat cruise in Amsterdam's canals with unlimited drink options, offering a unique view of the city's landmarks from the water
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam open boat cruise showcasing the iconic Dancing Houses with unlimited drink options
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying cheese and drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks.
Open boat cruise in Amsterdam's canals with unlimited drink options, offering a unique view of the city's landmarks from the water
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam open boat cruise showcasing the iconic Dancing Houses with unlimited drink options
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying cheese and drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks.
Open boat cruise in Amsterdam's canals with unlimited drink options, offering a unique view of the city's landmarks from the water
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam open boat cruise showcasing the iconic Dancing Houses with unlimited drink options
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying cheese and drinks on an open boat.
Amsterdam canal cruise boat with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks near Anne Frank House.
Amsterdam canal cruise with passengers enjoying unlimited drinks on an open boat.
4.4(129)

Amsterdam: Open Boat Cruise with Unlimited Drink Options

1 hr.
Free cancellation
from
€21.95
3 boarding points available
Cheese delights, Unlimited drinks (optional)
View popular sights like Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Seven Bridges View Point, Skinny Bridge +8 more
All photos
Amsterdam canal cruise with wine and cheese on a boat.
Couple enjoying canal cruise
Cruise near Amsterdam Canal
Captain and guide aboard the canal cruise
Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
Tourists enjoying a Cheese & Wine Cruise through the scenic Amsterdam Canals at sunset
Amsterdam Circle Line Cruise crossing Canal
Captain of the Canal cruise
Guests aboard the cruise
Guests aboard the cruise
Amsterdam canal cruise with wine and cheese on a boat.
Couple enjoying canal cruise
Cruise near Amsterdam Canal
Captain and guide aboard the canal cruise
Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
Tourists enjoying a Cheese & Wine Cruise through the scenic Amsterdam Canals at sunset
Amsterdam Circle Line Cruise crossing Canal
Captain of the Canal cruise
Guests aboard the cruise
Guests aboard the cruise
Amsterdam canal cruise with wine and cheese on a boat.
Couple enjoying canal cruise
Cruise near Amsterdam Canal
Captain and guide aboard the canal cruise
Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
Tourists enjoying a Cheese & Wine Cruise through the scenic Amsterdam Canals at sunset
Amsterdam Circle Line Cruise crossing Canal
Captain of the Canal cruise
Guests aboard the cruise
Guests aboard the cruise
4.5(1.8K)

Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese

1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.
Free cancellation
from
€33.95
3 boarding points available
Cheese delights, Unlimited drinks (optional)
Multilingual audioguide
View popular sights like Amstel, Anne Frank House, Singel +7 more
All photos
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
10646 - Amsterdam - Combo: Rijksmuseum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets - 11
Captain of the Canal cruise
Cruise near Amsterdam Canal
Audioguide
21440 - Amsterdam - 75 Mins Canal Cruise in Amsterdam - 07
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing historic buildings, part of Rembrandt House Museum and canal tour combo.
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
10646 - Amsterdam - Combo: Rijksmuseum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets - 11
Captain of the Canal cruise
Cruise near Amsterdam Canal
Audioguide
21440 - Amsterdam - 75 Mins Canal Cruise in Amsterdam - 07
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing historic buildings, part of Rembrandt House Museum and canal tour combo.
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
10646 - Amsterdam - Combo: Rijksmuseum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets - 11
Captain of the Canal cruise
Cruise near Amsterdam Canal
Audioguide
21440 - Amsterdam - 75 Mins Canal Cruise in Amsterdam - 07
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing historic buildings, part of Rembrandt House Museum and canal tour combo.
4.5(4.5K)

Amsterdam: 75-Min City Centre Sightseeing Cruise

1 hr. 15 min.
Free cancellation
from €14.50
€10.88

25% off

4 boarding points available
Multilingual audioguide
View popular sights like Magere Brug, Anne Frank House, NEMO Science Museum +18 more
All photos
Amsterdam canal cruise with 4-course dinner and drinks at sunset.
Romantic 4-Course Dinner Cruise Amsterdam-4
Romantic 4-Course Dinner Cruise sailing through Amsterdam's scenic canals at dusk
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 07
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 08
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 06
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 09
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 05
Evening canal cruise in Amsterdam with guests dining on a 4-course meal.
Amsterdam canal cruise with 4-course dinner and drinks at sunset.
Romantic 4-Course Dinner Cruise Amsterdam-4
Romantic 4-Course Dinner Cruise sailing through Amsterdam's scenic canals at dusk
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 07
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 08
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 06
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 09
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 05
Evening canal cruise in Amsterdam with guests dining on a 4-course meal.
Amsterdam canal cruise with 4-course dinner and drinks at sunset.
Romantic 4-Course Dinner Cruise Amsterdam-4
Romantic 4-Course Dinner Cruise sailing through Amsterdam's scenic canals at dusk
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 07
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 08
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 06
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 09
3098 - Amsterdam - Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu - 05
Evening canal cruise in Amsterdam with guests dining on a 4-course meal.

Dinner Menu

4.5(3K)

Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu

2 hr.
Free cancellation
Board at Lovers Canal Cruises Amsterdam
4-course dinner & complimentary drinks - beer, wine & soft drinks
View popular sights like Westerkerk, Skinny Bridge, Herengracht +6 more
All photos

Experience more for less: Combo deals & city cards

Van Gogh Museum and Lovers Canal Cruise
Colosseum and Roman Forum tour combo in Rome, Italy.
Amond blossom painting by Vinvent Van Gogh
City Sightseeing Amsterdam Bus and Canal Cruise
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Van Gogh self-portrait at Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, featured on guided tour.
Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam bedroom exhibit with iconic artwork.
Westerkerk Church in Amsterdam Canal Cruise
City Sightseeing Amsterdam Hop On Hop Bus 24 hrs and Canal Cruise
Van Gogh Museum and Lovers Canal Cruise
Colosseum and Roman Forum tour combo in Rome, Italy.
Amond blossom painting by Vinvent Van Gogh
City Sightseeing Amsterdam Bus and Canal Cruise
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Van Gogh self-portrait at Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, featured on guided tour.
Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam bedroom exhibit with iconic artwork.
Westerkerk Church in Amsterdam Canal Cruise
City Sightseeing Amsterdam Hop On Hop Bus 24 hrs and Canal Cruise
Van Gogh Museum and Lovers Canal Cruise
Colosseum and Roman Forum tour combo in Rome, Italy.
Amond blossom painting by Vinvent Van Gogh
City Sightseeing Amsterdam Bus and Canal Cruise
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Van Gogh self-portrait at Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, featured on guided tour.
Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam bedroom exhibit with iconic artwork.
Westerkerk Church in Amsterdam Canal Cruise
City Sightseeing Amsterdam Hop On Hop Bus 24 hrs and Canal Cruise
4.8(2.4K)

Combo: Van Gogh Museum Entry Tickets + 60-Min Lovers Canal Cruise

from
€37.50
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Make the most of this value-packed combo that takes you through the artistic journey of Van Gogh at his museum and a scenic canal cruise of Amsterdam.
  • Explore the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of the artist's paintings in the world, and admire the beauty of his work like Almond Blossom.
  • Art enthusiasts delight as you get to view Van Gogh's masterpieces, including The Potato Eaters which depict the harsh reality of country life.
  • Rejuvenate your soul as you go on a 60-min cruise of Amsterdam's iconic canals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and gaze at the city's 17th-century houses.
  • Sit comfortably in a glass-topped boat and experience the beauty of Amsterdam from a unique perspective. Enjoy views of famous sights like Anne Frank's House.
  • Make the most of this value-packed combo that takes you through the artistic journey of Van Gogh at his museum and a scenic canal cruise of Amsterdam.
  • Explore the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of the artist's paintings in the world, and admire the beauty of his work like Almond Blossom.
  • Art enthusiasts delight as you get to view Van Gogh's masterpieces, including The Potato Eaters which depict the harsh reality of country life.
  • Rejuvenate your soul as you go on a 60-min cruise of Amsterdam's iconic canals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and gaze at the city's 17th-century houses.
  • Sit comfortably in a glass-topped boat and experience the beauty of Amsterdam from a unique perspective. Enjoy views of famous sights like Anne Frank's House.

Inclusions

Van Gogh Museum

  • Entry to Van Gogh Museum

Lovers Canal Cruise

  • 60-min canal cruise
  • GPS audio guide in Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian

Exclusions

  • Audio-guides for the Van Gogh Museum.

Van Gogh Museum

  • Tip: Read the placards next to the paintings, they often contain interesting trivia about Van Gogh's life and thought processes.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Handbags bigger than an A4-size paper are not permitted inside the museum.

Lovers Canal Cruise

  • Tip: Keep an eye out for the leaning houses along the canal; they're a unique feature of Amsterdam's architecture.
  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Sail through the city's iconic waterways on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Say hello to Amsterdam's gorgeous canal cruise experience! With an impressive network - with over 62 miles of waterways, 1,500 bridges, and 90 islands, it's no surprise that it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you cruise along, you'll be treated to a panorama of Amsterdam's rich history and vibrant culture. Keep an eye out for famous landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, located among the charming historic buildings and lively neighborhoods. Whether you prefer a leisurely daytime excursion or a magical evening under the twinkling lights, there's an Amsterdam Canal Cruise tailored to suit every preference and schedule.

Navigate your Amsterdam Canal Cruise guide

  1. Why go on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise?
  2. Things to know before booking your cruise
  3. Find your cruise match
  4. Amsterdam Canal Cruise route map
  5. Types of cruise boats
  6. Know before you go
  7. Boarding points for your cruise
  8. Amsterdam canal cruise visitor tips
  9. Top sights covered on your cruise
  10. Amsterdam bridges to spot on your cruise
  11. Amsterdam canal cruise FAQs

Things to know before booking your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

  • Before booking your Amsterdam Canal cruise, decide if you want to go on a sightseeing cruise, a cruise with dining options, or a combo cruise.
  • Sightseeing cruises are the most popular form of cruise. Most of these depart every 15-30 minutes from piers across the city, including piers like Centraal Station which is easily accessible by public transport. Depending on your time and budget, you can opt for a 60-minute cruise or a more extensive 75-minute or 90-minute cruise.
  • Most sightseeing cruises depart from four major piers that are spread across the city. These include Centraal Station, Anne Frank House, Heineken Experience, and Hard Rock. However, there are also cruises that depart from Liedse Square, Damrak Pier, This is Holland, and A’DAM Lookout. Based on your plans for the day, you can choose a pier that is most convenient for you. For example, if you plan to spend just a day in Amsterdam and are arriving by train, choose a cruise departing near the Central Station. If you are visiting the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum afterward, it’s better to choose the departure point near the Rijksmuseum.
  • Depending on the season and the experience, most Amsterdam Canal cruises take place on an open or closed boat. Open boats allow you to enjoy unobstructed views from the boat while you feel the breeze. Closed boats, on the other hand, protect you from the elements, ensuring a comfortable experience no matter what the weather.
  • There are multiple Amsterdam Canal cruise operators, but the most popular ones are LOVERS and Blue Boat Company, both easily recognizable by their bright orange and blue exteriors respectively. Both operators are also environmentally conscious, offering solar-powered and electric boats. 
  • Most cruises visit all the main canals of Amsterdam - Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prisengracht. Some also travel through Singel and the Amstel River. A handful pass through the IJ River. When booking a sightseeing cruise, ensure that your cruise travels through the canal or river that you would like to see. Prisengracht is particularly known for the many attractions that lie on its banks. However, if you want to explore the IJ River and the Port of Amsterdam, book a harbor cruise. 
  • Consider an evening luxury cruise to see Amsterdam in its glory at sunset or at night. You can also choose to pair this with dinner by booking a dinner cruise.
  • Dining cruises are another popular way to see the Amsterdam canals. You can either opt for a wine and cheese cruise, a burger cruise, an all-you-can-eat pancake cruise, or an extravagant 4-course dinner cruise. Dinner cruises last longer, for 1.5 hours to 2 hours. For your 4-course dinner cruise, you can choose between vegetarian, meat, or fish menus. Check the menu that best suits your dietary preferences before booking your tickets.
  • Most Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets exclude the £1.50 tourist tax per person that must be paid on-site.
  • Some cruises offer discounted prices on weekdays. Additionally, discounted tickets are available for children under 14, and infants under 3 travel free. 

Find your Amsterdam Canal Cruise match

Experience
Boarding Point
Timings
Inclusions
Book Tickets
1-Hour City Centre Sightseeing Cruise
Central Station, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Damrak, or Leidse Square
12:35pm to 6pm
Audio guide in 18 languages
Sightseeing Evening Canal Cruise
Hard Rock Cafe, Rijksmuseum, Central Station, or Anne Frank House
5:15pm to 10pm
- Audio guide in 21 languages - Bar onboard
Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu
Central Station
7:30pm
- Multilingual audio guide - 4-course meal - Beer, wine, and soft drinks - Vegetarian, meat, & fish menu
Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
Central Station, Damrak, or Anne Frank House
8pm or 8:15pm
- Cheese, garnishes, wine - Free Wi-Fi - Toilets
Open Boat Cruise with Unlimited Drink Options
Central Station, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House
10:30am to 9:30am
- English-speaking guide - Open bar onboard - Blankets available

Amsterdam Canal Cruise route map

Types of Amsterdam canal cruise boats

Open vs closed
Food preferences
Comfort and features
Size
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • Open boats are perfect for sunny days. They are ideal for couples looking for a romantic experience, photography enthusiasts keen on capturing the best angles and uninterrupted shots of the city, and nature lovers.
  • Closed boats offer protection from the weather while still providing great views through large windows. These boats are heated, making them a comfortable choice year-round. These are ideal for families since they are safe for kids, with no risk of them leaning over the edge, those visiting in the winter, and elderly travelers. 
  • A semi-open boat offers the best of both worlds: it’s partially covered to provide some protection from the elements, but also has open sections so you can enjoy the sights. It is ideal for groups with mixed preferences, and those visiting in milder weather.
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • Booze/Drinks boats are designed for a more festive experience, with drinks served onboard. Options can range from wine and cheese tastings to full-on cocktail parties. They are perfect for bachelorette/bachelor Parties, as well as large groups.
  • Food-inclusive cruises combine sightseeing with dining, offering meals ranging from casual snacks like pancakes to full-course dinners. The pancake cruises are ideal for families, and the dinner cruises are perfect for couples, and both are great choices for foodies.
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • Luxury boats have everything you could want, with several amenities, sunny decks, dining areas, and even a host on some boats. These boats can be perfect for big parties or family reunions.
  • Salon boats are a bit smaller and more cozy. They're all about relaxing inside with comfy seats and big windows to enjoy the view. Some boats also have a bar or a bathroom on board.
  • Paddle boats are the most basic type of boat, and they are manually powered by paddling. These boats are usually small, just for 1 to 4 people, but there are some bigger ones with paddle wheels that can carry more passengers up to 8.
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • Large boats (regular cruises) are spacious with lots of open areas to soak up the sun. You'll find bathrooms, dining areas, and even bars and entertainment on some. These boats can carry 50 to 80 passengers and mostly stick to the three main canals.
  • Open boats are smaller, with no enclosed cabin. You're basically out in the open, with a canopy and basic seating. They're perfect for feeling the wind in your hair and getting up close to the canals. These boats can carry fewer people, around 20 to 30.
  • Small boats are the most intimate. They're like a cozy little cabin on the water, perfect for couples or small groups. They can go into the narrower canals, giving you a really personal view of Amsterdam. These boats usually only carry a few people, from 2 to 20.

Plan your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Best time to go
Facilities
Food and drink options
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • Peak season: The best time to go on a cruise is between April and October as the weather is pleasant. However, these months draw more crowds and expensive experiences. Expect long lines, packed attractions, and sold-out cruises.
  • Low season: If you want to avoid the crowds, book your cruise between November and March. Although the weather is chilly, these months see fewer crowds and reduced prices. You can also save money on flights, accommodation, and tickets.
  • On the day: If you want to explore beyond a cruise, opt for a cruise in the day. Book combo tours to save time and money. However, if you want to enjoy the sunset or dine, opt for an evening or dinner cruise. The latter promises a quieter and more romantic experience.
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • A free city map is available on all Lovers boats to help you understand the route better and point out the most important attractions to spot.
  • A GPS audio guide is available in 18-21 languages, depending on the boat operator,  including Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian
  • A lost and found service is available on most boats. 
  • The boats are heated throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy a cruise no matter what the weather.
  • Toilets are available only on closed boats. However, you can also make use of the facilities at the departure point before you board.
  • All Blue Boat cruises are wheelchair accessible. There are very few wheelchair-accessible boats run by other operators.
amsterdam canal cruise tickets
  • Canal cruise with wine and cheese: Cheese, charcuterie, beer, wine, and soft drinks
  • Amsterdam dinner cruise: 4-course meal (Menu)
  • River cruise with pancakes: Dutch pancakes, toppings, drinks
  • Canal cruise with pizza: Pizzas (Menu), chilled Heineken beer, wine, or soft drinks, cookie dough chocolate chip ice cream

Amsterdam burger dinner cruise: Beers and Barrels burgers, fries, mayonnaise

Boarding points

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruises start at one of these four docking points unless stated otherwise on your ticket. The details about your departure point and specific instructions regarding departure will be provided on your ticket. 

Heineken Experience

Hard Rock Cafe

Centraal Station

Anne Frank House

Note: Please carry a valid photo ID for ticket redemption at the departure point.

Visitor tips

  • We recommend arriving around 15 minutes before departure to choose a good seat on the boat and settle in before the cruise begins. 
  • It is best to choose canal cruise tours that include a professional guide or an audio guide for a more informative and memorable experience.
  • There’s a distinct difference between live commentary and audio guides. While audio guides offer language versatility and clarity, live commentary, often provided on luxurious cruises, adds a personal touch and can be more engaging and humorous. Choose what works best for you!
  • Open boat tours are ideal for catching impeccable views of the surrounding landmarks. However, make sure to check the weather before booking them. 
  • Check all details before booking your Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Check the timings, departure points, exclusions, inclusions, and other details. 
  • It's advisable to book your canal cruise tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Most canal cruises do not allow large luggage due to limited space, but small bags and personal items are generally permitted. If you have larger luggage, storing it at your hotel or nearby luggage storage facilities is best.
  • Opt for a cruise combo to save time and money. These cruises also allow the flexibility to go on the cruise any time on the same day, with many cruise agencies offering an open ticket or a time slot allotted on a first come first serve basis.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets

Can I bring my pet on an Amsterdam canal cruise?

Yes, you can bring your pets on some Amsterdam canal cruises. Make sure to check the ticket details before bringing your pets along. The 1-hour Open Boat Amsterdam Cruise with Optional Wine and Cheese and 1-hour Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise in Amsterdam allow pets on board. 

Can I watch the Amsterdam Light Festival from my canal cruise?

The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual festival, where renowned artists from around the world come together to create stunning light art installations along its historic canals. If you visit Amsterdam around November to January, you can book special Light Festival cruises to witness these installations. 

Is photography allowed during the cruise?

Yes, photography is encouraged, as the canals offer some of the most photogenic views of Amsterdam. Whether you're snapping shots of historic buildings or bridges, the cruise provides countless photo opportunities.

Do canal cruises run during bad weather?

Yes, canal cruises operate rain or shine! Many boats are covered or equipped with heated interiors, ensuring you have a comfortable experience regardless of the weather. However, extreme weather conditions may cause cancellations, so it's good to check in advance.

Are there eco-friendly Amsterdam canal cruises?

Yes, some operators offer solar-powered boats or electric boats, ensuring that your cruise has minimal impact on the environment. These boats provide a quiet and sustainable way to explore the canals.

Can I host a private event on an Amsterdam canal cruise?

Yes, private canal cruises are available for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, or corporate events. You can customize the experience with catering, music, and tailored itineraries. For this, you will have to reach out to the respective cruise agencies.

Is tipping expected on Amsterdam canal cruises?

While tipping is not mandatory, it's appreciated if you enjoyed the service provided by the staff or guide. A small tip of 5-10% is generally considered polite.

What kind of seating is available on an Amsterdam canal cruise?

Seating arrangements vary by boat type. Some boats have large windows for optimal viewing, while others may have open-air decks. Dinner cruises often provide table seating, adding to the dining experience.

Is there parking near the canal cruise boarding points?

Yes, parking is available near many canal cruise departure points, but it can be limited and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport, walk, or bike to the boarding location if possible.