Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tours

Cruises in AmsterdamHop-On Hop-Off Cruises

What are Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off boat tours?

The Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off boat tour is a unique way to explore Amsterdam. It offers a fully narrated tour around the canals of Amsterdam, providing gorgeous views of the city's landmarks and historical sites. The cruise combines sightseeing with the convenience of hopping on and off at various points along the river, allowing passengers to explore the city at their own pace. 

Why take an Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off boat tour

amsterdam hop on hop off boat
  • Panoramic views: Catch a glimpse of the 'Venice of the North' from a unique perspective as you cruise past must-sees like the Anne Frank House, NEMO Science Museum, the Heineken Experience, and more.
  • Flexibility and convenience: This tour is perfect for spontaneous travelers and anyone who wants to avoid rigid schedules. Unlike traditional cruises, you can hop on and off at various stops along the Amsterdam Canal banks, allowing you to customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you would like at each landmark.
  • Value for money: The cruise is a cost-effective way to explore Amsterdam, offering affordable ticket options and access to several iconic landmarks.
  • Avoiding crowds: The cruise is a great way to avoid crowds and enjoy the city's landmarks without the hassle of navigating busy streets.

Things to know before booking an Amsterdam hop-on hop-off boat tour

  • Discounts are available for children under 14. Infants under 3 years old can travel for free.
  • The Amsterdam hop-on hop-off boats do not operate on April 27 due to King’s Day.
  • Amsterdam Canal Hop-on Hop-off cruises are not wheelchair accessible. However, that does not mean you cannot enjoy a cruise experience on Amsterdam's majestic canals. Opt for a Blue Boat sightseeing cruise and board from the dock opposite the Hard Rock Cafe.
  • It's recommended to book your tickets a few weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to ensure availability. However, same-day bookings are also possible depending on availability.

Plan your Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off boat tour

Timings
Boarding point
Facilities
Visitor tips
amsterdam hop on hop off boat

The Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off boat tours are available every day.

  • Summer: First departure at 10:05am and last departure at 6pm
  • Winter: First departure at 10am and last departure at 5pm

Frequency: Every 25 minutes

Loop duration: 2 hours 5 minutes

The cruise starts from Amsterdam Central West. However, you can board the cruise at any one of the 9 stops on its route. The hop-on hop-off cruise stops at Passenger Terminal, NEMO Science Museum, Gassan Diamonds, Amstel, Albert Cuyp Market, Rijksmuseum, Leidseplein, and Westermarkt.

Central Station West: 1012 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands

  • By train: Take Intercity or Sprinter to Amsterdam Centraal
  • By metro: Take metro lines 51, 53, or 54 to Amsterdam Centraal
amsterdam hop on hop off boat
  • Audio guide in English, Dutch, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Catalan, Turkish, Polish, Russian, Thai, Indonesian, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic and Hebrew
  • Free earphones are available that you can keep and reuse when you hop on again.
  • Free city map available onboard to plan where you want to hop on or off.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available onboard the boat.
amsterdam hop on hop off boat
  • Morning or afternoon cruises are ideal to avoid peak crowds. For a magical experience, book a sunset cruise to see the city illuminated in the evening.
  • Amsterdam weather can vary, especially on the boat, so dress in layers and bring a light jacket or sweater for evening cruises when it can get cooler on the water.
  • Opt for comfortable shoes as you may need to walk short distances between hop-off points or explore nearby attractions.
  • For daytime cruising, don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay comfortable while soaking up the sights from the deck.
  • Research the cruise route and schedule, and plan your hop-off points to manage your time.
  • Take advantage of the audio guide to learn interesting facts and historical insights about the sights you pass.
  • When booking your tickets, choose a window seat so that you get a fantastic view outside.
  • If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to stop at popular family-friendly attractions, like the NEMO Science Museum, Artis Zoo, and Vondelpark.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off boat tours

Are food and drinks available onboard?

No food or drinks are served on the hop-on hop-off cruises. However, you can hop off at any of the stops and enjoy nearby cafes and restaurants.

What happens if it rains?

Amsterdam hop-on hop-off boats are equipped with partial coverings to protect passengers from the rain. However, you should still dress appropriately for the weather to stay comfortable.

Is the cruise kid-friendly?

Yes, children will enjoy the experience as they get to explore multiple stops around Amsterdam. 

Is there a time limit on my visit at each stop?

There’s no strict time limit for how long you can spend at each stop. The flexibility of the hop-on hop-off service allows you to explore attractions at your own pace. Boats arrive every 25 minutes, so you can plan your time accordingly.

Is the Hop-On Hop-Off boat tour suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely! The cruise is a relaxing way to explore Amsterdam, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a group. The flexibility and onboard guide make it ideal for solo travelers looking to explore at their own pace.