Canal Cruises Amsterdam
Explore
About
Amsterdam Attractions
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌

Amsterdam's canals come to life at night, offering a unique and magical way to explore the city's historic charm. An evening cruise through Amsterdam’s waterways is a perfect way to unwind while admiring the illuminated bridges and famous landmarks. Whether you're looking for a romantic outing, a family-friendly experience, or a relaxed tour, evening cruises in Amsterdam blend beauty and insightful guides. With various themed options available, including dinner cruises and wine tastings, these tours are an unforgettable way to experience the city’s atmosphere as the sun sets.

​About Amsterdam Canals

Why go on an Amsterdam canal evening cruise

evening cruise amsterdam
  • Romantic evening cruise: Experience the charm of Amsterdam's canals at night on a 90-minute or 1-hour evening cruise, surrounded by enchanting lights and unique architecture.
  • Onboard refreshments: Sip on wine, beer, or soft drinks from the onboard bar as you cruise through the illuminated canals, creating a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment.
  • Multilingual audio guide: Find out why Amsterdam is often called the 'Venice of the North' as you navigate its extensive canal network and learn about the city's past and cultural significance with a personal audio guide. It’s available in 21 languages, including English, Dutch, German, and French.
  • Red Light District exploration: Cruise past the renowned Red Light District, delving into its intriguing and controversial history. Experience a side of Amsterdam that many daytime tourists may not encounter.

Things to know before you book your evening cruise Amsterdam tickets

  • The 1.5 Hour Evening Canal Cruise is only wheelchair accessible cruise. Book this one if you or someone you’re traveling with has mobility issues.
  • Cancellation policies vary by operator, but most cruises offer free cancellations up to 24-48 hours before departure. Be sure to read the terms and conditions before booking if you think you may miss your cruise.
  • If you want to bring your pets along, consider the Evening Guided Cruise with Bar on Board option.
  • If you are traveling with kids, especially hungry ones, consider the Evening Canal Cruise. You can upgrade your tickets to include a snack box that includes sweet and savory snacks and one drink. This cruise also provides a Kids Cruise audio guide and booklet with every kids’ ticket you purchase.
  • Admire golden-hour canal views with something tasty—opt for the Pizza & Drinks Cruise or the 4-Course Dinner Cruise with drinks.

Your evening cruise Amsterdam ticket options explained

evening cruise amsterdam

Sightseeing cruise

  • These cruises focus on exploring Amsterdam's iconic canals and landmarks like Anne Frank House and Magere Brug.
  • Your tickets include an onboard audio guide in 21 languages.
  • Drinks can be purchased separately, with options to upgrade to snack boxes or a cheese and wine set.

Recommended experience:

  • 1.5 Hour Evening Canal Cruise
evening cruise amsterdam

Cruise with drinks

  • These cruises offer a more personalized experience with a live English-speaking guide providing insights about Amsterdam.
  • Board luxury boats and avail the option to purchase drinks onboard.
  • The tour covers the illuminated city after sunset, including landmarks like the Rijksmuseum and Herengracht Canal.

Recommended experience:

  • Evening Cruise with Bar on Board
evening cruise amsterdam

Dinner cruise

  • A romantic and luxurious evening cruise that includes a 4-course gourmet dinner prepared by gourmet chef Frans Kelders with meat, fish, and vegetarian menus to choose from.
  • These cruises offer a more intimate experience, with drinks like beer, wine, and soft drinks included.

Recommended experience:

  • 4-Course Dinner Cruise with drinks

Know before you go on an evening cruise in Amsterdam

evening cruise amsterdam
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Skipper & Host: 5:15pm to 10pm
    Duration: 1 hour
  • Luxury Evening Canal Cruise with Bar on Board: 5:15pm to 10pm
    Duration: 1 hour
  • 1.5 Hour Evening Canal Cruise: 6:30pm to 10pm
    Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Evening Cruise with Pizza and Unlimited Drinks: 5:45pm, 6pm, 6:30pm
    Duration: 75-90 mins
  • Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu: 7:30pm 
    Duration: 2 hours
evening cruise amsterdam
  • Audio guide in 19 languages including English, French, Russian, Spanish, German, Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Arabic, Japanese, Turkish, Polish, Czech, Croatian, Indonesian, Cantonese, Korean, and Hindi (on the sightseeing cruise).
  • In addition to the audio guide, an experience English-speaking guide is also available on most of the guided cruise.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available onboard most boats.
  • Toilets are available on all closed boats. Please use the facilities at the departure point before boarding an open boat.
  • Heating is available on all closed boats.
evening cruise amsterdam
  • Smoking is prohibited onboard all boats.
  • Outside food and personal alcohol are not allowed on the boat. However, you can opt for a cruise with food or a dinner cruise.
  • Large bags and suitcases are not permitted onboard. Please store them at the dock, a nearby storage facility, or leave them behind at your hotel.

Getting there

Hard Rock Cafe

  • By metro: 51, 52, 53, 54
  • By tram: 1, 2, 5, 7, 12, 14, 19
  • By train: Sprinter, Intercity

Anne Frank House

  • By tram: 5, 13, 14, 17
  • By bus: 18, 21

Centraal Station

  • By train: Intercity, Sprinter
  • By bus: 18, 21, 22
  • By metro: 51, 53, 54

Rijksmuseum

  • By metro: 51, 52, 53, 54
  • By tram: 1, 7, 14, 19
  • By train: Intercity, Sprinter

Damrak Pier

  • By tram: 4, 14 or 24 (Dam)
  • By bus: 18, 21, 305, 357, 391 (Prins Hendrikkade or Dam)
  • By metro: 51, 52, 53 or 54 (Amsterdam Centraal Station)

LOVERS Canal Cruise Pier

  • By metro: 51, 52 53 or 54 (Centraal Station)
  • By bus: 18, 21 or 305 (Centraal Station)

Visitor tips

  • Make sure you arrive 15 minutes before your booked time slot to avoid delays and get the best seats on the boat.
  • Collect the physical ticket for your boat tour at the redemption center by showing your mobile voucher.
  • Summer is a great time for an evening cruise as the days are longer and the weather is warmer. However, winter cruises provide a unique experience with holiday lights reflected in the canals.
  • To avoid the crowds, opt for a weekday cruise or book during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). Later evening cruises also tend to be less crowded.
  • There’s generally no formal dress code, but smart-casual attire is appropriate, especially for dinner cruises. Dress comfortably and according to the weather. Even in summer, it can get chilly on the water in the evening, so bring a light jacket. In winter, dress warmly and wear layers to stay comfortable during the cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions about evening cruise Amsterdam tickets

Does the Amsterdam canal evening cruise include access to the Light Festival?

Yes, there are Amsterdam canal evening & night cruise tickets with exclusive access to the ​Amsterdam Light Festival. These tickets are seasonal and are currently unavailable.

Do any of the evening cruises include drinks?

Yes, many Amsterdam Canal evening and night cruise tickets include drinks. While drinks are included with the Evening Guided Cruise with Bar on Board and the Dinner Cruise, drinks are excluded but available to buy onboard with the Sightseeing Evening Canal Cruise.

Can I book a private evening cruise in Amsterdam?

Yes, private evening cruises are available. These offer a more intimate experience and can be customized to include special occasions like anniversaries or small group celebrations. You can book these directly with cruise operators.

Are Amsterdam evening cruises family-friendly?

Yes, most evening cruises like the Sightseeing Evening Canal Cruise are family-friendly, though some cruises may cater specifically to adults, particularly those offering alcoholic beverages like the Evening Guided Cruise with Bar on Board.

Are there restrooms on board the evening cruises?

Yes, most closed evening cruise boats are equipped with restrooms for passenger convenience. Open boats and small boats, however, may not have restroom facilities. To be on the safer side, please use the facilities at the departure point before boarding.

What happens if it rains during my evening cruise?

Evening cruises operate rain or shine, and most boats have covered or indoor seating. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Can I take photographs during the evening cruise?

Yes, photography is encouraged! The canals and illuminated landmarks offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially in the evening light.

Are evening cruises in Amsterdam suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, evening cruises are a fantastic option for solo travelers looking to experience the charm of Amsterdam by night. Some cruises even cater specifically to solo travelers with smaller group sizes and a relaxed, social atmosphere, like the Evening Guided Cruise with Bar on Board.

Are there rest stops during the cruise where I can explore?

Typically, evening cruises do not make stops. However, some private or ​Hop On Hop Off cruises might include brief stops at key locations, so be sure to check the itinerary if this interests you.

Are there any eco-friendly evening cruises available in Amsterdam?

Yes, several operators like ​LOVERS and ​Blue Boat use electric boats or solar-powered boats with a focus on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact on Amsterdam’s canals.

Quick Links
About:
Amsterdam Canal Cruises:
Top Attractions in Amsterdam:
Museums in Amsterdam:
Canal Cruises:
Amsterdam Themeparks:
Transportation Services:
Canal Cruises Amsterdam
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

Headout

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
AFFIRM