Amsterdam: The Newest Canal Cruise with Drink Option
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 100 km of UNESCO-listed canals were dug in the 17th-century Golden Age to control flooding, defend the city, and fuel global trade. Today, they remain the best way to see the city’s leaning gabled houses, hidden courtyards, and modern marvels.
This newest electric cruise revives the Dutch tradition of “varen” (sailing) with zero emissions, blending heritage with sustainability.
Highlights
- 1-hour electric boat cruise through UNESCO canals
- Live English & Dutch commentary by local skipper
- Digital brochure in 8 languages (QR code)
- Small group max. 28 for intimate views
- Optional unlimited beer, wine, or soft drink
- See Skinny Bridge, Dancing Houses, Red Light District, H’ART Museum
Full Description
Board a sleek, silent electric boat opposite Central Station and let Amsterdam unfold. Your skipper—often a local like Janpaul or Lars—shares witty tales of Golden Age merchants, hidden hofjes, and the city’s quirky architecture.
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Glide past the ornate Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the floating Sea Palace, and the medieval Montelbaanstoren. Sip a cold Heineken, crisp wine, or soda (unlimited with drink option) as you duck under bridges and wave to houseboats.
The boat adapts to weather—open for sun, partly covered for breeze, fully enclosed with ponchos for rain. In 60 minutes, you’ll capture Amsterdam’s magic from the water, where it belongs.
Why Choose This Experience?
As GetYourGuide’s top-rated canal provider, this cruise combines sustainability, intimacy, and local charm. The small group size ensures every seat has prime views, and the multilingual digital guide welcomes all.
Whether you’re a first-timer or repeat visitor, the drink option and electric silence make it effortlessly memorable.
What’s Included
- 1-hour electric canal cruise
- Live commentary in English & Dutch by local skipper
- Free digital brochure (QR code) in 8 languages: English, Dutch, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese
- Small group (max. 28 passengers)
- Unlimited beer, wine, or soft drink (if option selected)
- Weather-adaptive boat: open, partly covered, or fully enclosed
- Ponchos & umbrellas for sudden rain
- Skip-the-line boarding
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Reserve now, pay later
Itinerary
- Starting location: Stationsplein 18 (in front of Central Station)
- Cruise through Canals of Amsterdam (1 hour)
- Pass Basilica of Saint Nicholas
- Pass Sea Palace (floating restaurant)
- Pass Montelbaanstoren
- Pass Oudeschans
- Cruise along The Amstel river
- Pass Blauwbrug Bridge
- Pass H’ART Museum
- Pass Dancing Houses
- Pass Oude Kerk
- Cruise through Amsterdam Red Light District
- Pass Zeedijk Street
- Return to: Stationsplein 18
Pricing
From $18 per person
Meeting Point
Stationsplein 18, in front of Amsterdam Central Station by the water. Look for the dark green Eco Boats beach flag and staff in dark blue shirts.
How to get there
- From inside Central Station: Exit main entrance (IJzijde), turn left, walk 2 min along the water to tram stops.
- By tram: Lines 2, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17 stop directly at Stationsplein.
- By metro: Lines 51, 53, 54 exit at Centraal – 3-min walk.
- From Dam Square: 10-min walk via Damrak or tram 2/11/12 (3 stops).
Good to Know
What to bring
- Light jacket & sunscreen (weather changes fast)
- Smartphone (for digital brochure QR code)
- Comfortable shoes (short walk to dock)
- Reusable cup (if eco-conscious—crew provides disposables)
Know before you go
- No smoking on board
- No microphone—sit near skipper for best audio
- Digital brochure works offline once downloaded
- Route may vary due to canal traffic/bridges
- Use Google Maps (not Apple) for exact dock location
Reviews
- Janpaul’s humor and stories made the hour fly—best canal tour we’ve done! Drink option was clutch.
- Lars was a legend—funny, knowledgeable, and the electric boat was whisper-quiet. Highly recommend!
- Perfect intro to Amsterdam—small boat, great views, and the digital guide in Spanish was spot-on.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
How do I access the digital brochure in my language?
Upon boarding, scan the QR code on your ticket or boat signage with your smartphone camera—it instantly downloads a detailed guide in your choice of 8 languages: English, Dutch, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, or Chinese. The brochure includes maps, landmark descriptions, and historical facts synced to GPS locations. It works offline, so no data needed. Illustrations and photos enhance the experience. Crew assists with scanning if needed. Families often use it to keep everyone engaged.
Is the boat heated or covered in bad weather?
Yes—the electric boat adapts instantly. In rain, a transparent roof slides over within seconds, keeping you dry while preserving 360° views. Heated seats and air circulation maintain 20–22°C inside. Ponchos and umbrellas are provided for the short walk to/from the dock. In sunshine, the roof retracts fully or partially for breeze. The design ensures comfort year-round—reviewers love winter cruises with hot drinks and glowing bridge lights.
What drinks are included in the unlimited option?
The drink package includes unlimited Heineken beer, red/white wine, or soft drinks (cola, sprite, orange Fanta). Served in eco-friendly reusable cups with lids. Refills are self-service at the bar station—show your wristband. Premium spirits or cocktails are not included. Non-drinkers get the same soft drink options. Crew can prepare mocktails on request.
Can I hear the skipper clearly without a microphone?
The skipper speaks loudly and clearly, but without amplification, sitting in the first 2–3 rows ensures you catch every anecdote. The boat is small (max. 28), so even back seats work on calm days. If wind or engine noise interferes, politely ask the skipper to project—they’re happy to repeat. The digital brochure fills in any missed details with text and photos.
Is the cruise suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes for kids—the 1-hour duration is perfect, and the skipper includes fun facts about houseboats and bridges. Life vests provided. Strollers fold and store below deck. For mobility: the boat has a small step (15 cm) to board; crew assists. Wheelchair users can transfer if foldable chair is stored. The route avoids low bridges. Book “accessible” option online for priority seating. Guide dogs welcome.
