Canal Cruises Amsterdam

Book Amsterdam River Cruise Tickets

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Book Amsterdam River Cruise Tickets
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The Amsterdam canals connect the heart of the city to the famous port which is also the second-largest port in the Netherlands. With most of the canals being built on the Amstel and Zaan rivers, Amsterdam river cruises are probably the best way to explore the magical city of Amsterdam and tour its unique harbor.

Why go on an Amsterdam river cruise

Amsterdam Canal Harbor Cruise Tickets
  • Enjoy the views of the Amsterdam harbor from the deck of the luxurious cruise and admire the world’s largest cocoa and petrol port. Get to learn about interesting details and future development plans of the port.
  • Get to explore the areas of Amsterdam port that are only accessible for commercial shipping and sail between large cargo ships.
  • Sail off the former historic NDSM yard and indulge in the food and drink choices available onboard.
  • Explore the historic town of Zaanse Schans and experience the Dutch cultural heritage on an amazing 3-hour excursion.

Things to know before you book an Amsterdam river cruise

  • In case of bad weather, the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour will be rescheduled or you will get a full refund.
  • There are discounted tickets available for children between the ages of three and thirteen on the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour.
  • You can upgrade your Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour to include a Spanish-speaking guided tour or a River Zaans boat cruise.
  • The Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour also includes entry to a clog-making factory and a cheese farm. You do not need to pay for this separately.
  • While the Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour can be canceled 24 hours in advance, the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour can be canceled even 1 hour before the experience and you will get a full refund.

About the Port of Amsterdam

amsterdam harbor cruise

During the Dutch Golden Age, the Amsterdam Harbor was an important port for the Dutch East India Company. Today, it's still a major player – it's actually the second-biggest port in the Netherlands! The port comprises several harbor areas, with over 1,500 acres of waterways and almost 4,930 acres of land. And can you believe it has a history that goes all the way back to the 13th century? A seaport located on the North Sea Canal and IJ, a former bay connecting the North Sea, it serves as the fourth busiest port in Europe. Plus, it's connected to the Rhine River through the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal.

Sights covered on your Amsterdam river cruise

Amsterdam Canal Harbor Cruise tickets

Port of Amsterdam

Built in the 13th century, the Port of Amsterdam was originally the main hub for the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century. Today, it's still super busy – it's the fourth busiest port in Europe and the second-largest in the Netherlands! You can take a boat tour and see the whole thing, including the biggest cocoa and petrol port in the world.

Amsterdam Canal Harbor Cruise tickets

Zaan River

Originally a sidearm of the IJ Bay, the Zaan River is about 13.5 kilometers long and has played a big role in the Netherlands' geographical and cultural history. Several towns and cities along its banks are even named after it, like Zaanse Schans. These towns are like time capsules, holding onto the river’s cultural heritage.

Amsterdam Canal Harbor Cruise tickets

Zaanse Schans

Deriving its name from the Zaan River, Zaanse Schans holds on to the original Dutch cultural heritage with its well-preserved historic houses and windmills. You can even visit a bakery museum and learn about clog-making. It's a great spot to experience the real Netherlands and see why it's so popular with tourists.

Know before you go on an Amsterdam river cruise

Amsterdam Canal Harbor Cruise tickets
  • From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour: 10:30am and 2:15pm
    Duration: 6 hours
  • Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour: 2 pm
    Duration: 2 hours

You can board both cruises on the dock opposite Ms. van Riemsdijkweg 45 (NDSM Wharf)

Take the free ferry to the NDSM Wharf (purple line F4) from the ​Amsterdam Centraal Station to get to the dock.

Amsterdam Canal Harbor Cruise tickets
  • Entertainment tax is included in the price for the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour
  • Downloadable multilingual audio guides are available in Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish & Italian on both cruises
  • A Spanish-speaking guide is available on the Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour
  • Free Wi-Fi is available onboard the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour
  • Food and drinks are available for purchase on the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour
  • Service animals are permitted onboard the Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour 
  • The Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour includes round-trip transfers from Amsterdam
amsterdam harbor cruise
  • Make sure to reach your boarding point 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time for the cruise for a smooth check-in and to get the best seats onboard.
  • You might experience a drop in temperature once you are onboard. Make sure to dress appropriately in warm clothes to enjoy a comfortable ride.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam river cruise tickets

What is the difference between an Amsterdam canal cruise and a river cruise?

A river cruise takes you beyond the city’s famous canals and into the larger waters of Amsterdam’s harbor and surrounding waterways, providing a broader view of the city’s maritime history, industrial zones, and modern architecture.

Is an Amsterdam river cruise suitable for families?

Yes, river cruises are great for families. Children often find it exciting to see large ships, cranes, and bustling docks. Some cruises may also offer commentary specifically tailored for younger audiences.

Can I see large ships and cargo vessels on an Amsterdam river cruise?

Yes, the river cruise offers views of large ships, including cargo vessels and ferries that dock and pass through the port. You’ll see a bustling side of Amsterdam that’s far different from the calm, narrow canals.

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