Amsterdam: Smoke Friendly Cannabis Cruise on Cloud Boat
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Reservations
History
Amsterdam’s coffeeshop culture emerged in the 1960s amid hippie influences from American sailors and traders, who brought cannabis to the city’s ports. By the 1970s, the Dutch government decriminalized possession of small amounts (up to 5 grams) to separate soft drugs like marijuana from harder ones, reducing organized crime and prioritizing harm reduction over punishment.
The first coffeeshop, Mellow Yellow, opened in 1972, followed by icons like The Bulldog in 1975, establishing house rules against hard drugs and creating safe, social spaces. Today, with about 166 licensed shops in Amsterdam, this “tolerance policy” (gedoogbeleid) remains a quasi-legal cornerstone of the city’s relaxed vibe, though full legalization debates continue.
Highlights
- Smoke-friendly canal cruise on the iconic, covered Cloud Boat
- Learn Amsterdam’s coffeeshop history and marijuana decriminalization from a chill host
- Glide past Red Light District, Seven Bridges, and UNESCO canals
- Onboard bar for signature drinks (purchase separately)
- Rain-or-shine adventure with optional roof for fall/winter
Full Description
Drift into Amsterdam’s hazy underbelly on the Cloud Boat, a smoke-friendly haven where the city’s canals meet its legendary tolerance. Your English-speaking host spins tales of 1970s coffeeshops and the decriminalization that made Amsterdam a global beacon for chill vibes, all while you soak in views of glowing bridges and leaning gables.
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Bring your own cannabis (and tobacco) to light up responsibly in this welcoming space—solo, with friends, or a partner—embracing the “Smoke & Float” ethos. Quench your thirst at the onboard bar with craft beers, sodas, or local brews (no outside drinks allowed).
From the buzz of Oudezijds Voorburgwal to serene Prinsengracht stretches, this 1-hour cruise blends education, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery. It’s Amsterdam unfiltered—literally.
Why Choose This Experience?
In a city of rigid tours, the Cloud Boat stands out for its unapologetic nod to Amsterdam’s counterculture roots. The smoke-friendly policy (BYO only) lets you authentically unwind, while the host’s insider stories on decriminalization add depth without preachiness.
Perfect for cannabis-curious travelers or locals seeking a low-key escape, it’s intimate (small groups), flexible (multiple daily departures), and weather-proof. Skip the crowds—float above them.
What’s Included
- 1-hour canal cruise on the smoke-friendly Cloud Boat
- Professional English-speaking skipper and host(ess)
- Live commentary on coffeeshop history and Amsterdam lore
- Skip-the-line boarding
- Welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for responsible smoking (BYO cannabis/tobacco)
- Covered roof option for fall/winter (weather-dependent)
- Access to onboard bar (drinks for purchase)
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Reserve now, pay later option
- Safety briefing and life vests provided
Itinerary
- Starting location: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230
- Cruise through Amsterdam Red Light District (10 minutes)
- Cruise by Amsterdam Centraal Station (5 minutes)
- Cruise along Oudeschans (5 minutes)
- Cruise the iconic Canals of Amsterdam (15 minutes)
- Cruise Herengracht (10 minutes)
- Cruise Seven Bridges View Point (5 minutes)
- Cruise Prinsengracht (10 minutes)
- Arrive back at: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230
Pricing
From $26 per person
Meeting Point
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, near the canal bridge in the Red Light District. Look for staff in bright blue uniforms holding a Cloud Boat sign.
How to get there
- From Centraal Station: 5-minute walk south via Damrak, turn right onto Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
- From Dam Square: 7-minute walk via Warmoesstraat into the Red Light District.
- By tram: Lines 4, 14, or 24 to Dam Square (3 min), then walk 5 min.
- From Rembrandtplein: Tram 4 to Muntplein (5 min), then 10-min walk via Kalverstraat.
Good to Know
What to bring
- Valid passport or ID (required for check-in)
- Your own cannabis and tobacco (if smoking—purchased nearby)
- Comfortable layers and non-slip shoes
- Reusable water bottle (bar sells drinks)
Know before you go
- No marijuana/tobacco sales on board—BYO only; coffeeshops abound nearby.
- No music playback allowed on canals (quiet cruising only).
- Tour runs rain or shine; boat may be covered/open based on weather.
- Late arrivals not accommodated—no refunds.
- Responsible smoking: Designated area, no littering; host enforces chill rules.
Reviews
- Super relaxed vibe with fascinating coffeeshop stories—highly recommend for a unique twist on canal tours!
- The host was a gem: funny, informative, and kept the energy mellow. Loved floating through the city lights.
- Brilliant guide with flawless knowledge—laughed the whole time while learning about Amsterdam’s hazy history.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
Is smoking really allowed on the boat, and what are the rules?
Yes, this is Amsterdam's premier smoke-friendly cruise, but it's BYO only—you must bring your own cannabis and tobacco, as the boat cannot sell or distribute any substances per Dutch law. Smoking is permitted in a designated outdoor or semi-open area (depending on the boat's configuration), but always responsibly: no littering, keep it discreet to respect other guests and passersby, and follow the host's guidelines to maintain the chill atmosphere. The policy aligns with the city's tolerance ethos, where personal use of small amounts (up to 5g) is decriminalized since the 1970s. If you're new to it, nearby coffeeshops like Mellow Yellow (just steps away) offer pure joints without tobacco. Crew monitors for safety, and overindulgence may lead to a gentle redirect—it's all about harmony on the water. Non-smokers are equally welcome; the boat's covered design keeps scents contained.
What if it rains during the cruise?
The tour operates rain or shine, embracing Amsterdam's unpredictable weather as part of the adventure. During fall and winter (or rainy spells), the Cloud Boat deploys its retractable roof, turning it into a cozy, covered saloon with open sides for fresh air and views—perfect for smoking without getting wet. In summer, it's often open-top for that breezy "cloud" feel. Umbrellas or ponchos aren't provided, so pack a light rain jacket if needed. The 1-hour duration means any shower passes quickly, and many guests find misty canals even more magical. Delays from heavy rain are rare, but the skipper adjusts speed for safety. Pro tip: Check the forecast and arrive early—latecomers miss out, wet or dry.
Can I bring my own drinks or food on board?
No outside drinks or food are allowed to comply with maritime regulations and keep the onboard bar flowing (drinks like beer, wine, soda, or signature cocktails available for purchase). This ensures hygiene, safety, and supports the relaxed vibe—imagine spilling a sneaky soda mid-story! Water is fine in a reusable bottle, and the bar has non-alcoholic options too. If you're planning a group sesh, coordinate BYO snacks from nearby markets, but keep it light. The focus is on the views, history, and floating freedom, not picnicking. Exceptions for medical needs (e.g., sealed meds) can be arranged via the host at check-in.
What's the group size like, and is it family-friendly?
Groups are intimate—typically 12-20 guests max—for a personal, unhurried feel that lets everyone chat with the host about coffeeshop lore or spot herons on the water. It's welcoming for friends, couples, or solo travelers seeking that signature Amsterdam ease, but not ideal for young kids due to the smoke-friendly nature and mature themes (decriminalization stories can get cheeky). 18+ recommended, though all ages are technically allowed if non-smoking. Families often opt for standard cruises instead. The small size means easy mingling, but book ahead for peak evenings when spots fill with international crews. Private charters available for bigger parties.
How knowledgeable is the host about coffeeshop history?
Exceptionally—the host(ess) is a local expert, trained to weave engaging tales from the 1960s hippie influx to the 1972 opening of Mellow Yellow and the 1976 policy formalizing tolerance. Expect fun facts like how coffeeshops banned hard drugs early on, or the AHOJ-G rules (no advertising, no minors) from 1994 that keep things regulated yet mellow. It's not a lecture; it's interactive Q&A with humor, like debating "pure" vs. tobacco joints. Reviewers rave about the flawless delivery—informative yet light, sparking laughs and "aha" moments. If you're a history buff, ask for deep dives on the 1980s boom or ongoing legalization pushes.
