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Cruises in Amsterdam

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    • Top experiences in Amsterdam

    Free cancellation
    Keukenhof tulip fields with "Welcome to Tulip Heaven" sign, vibrant flowers in Amsterdam.
    Keukenhof Tickets
    From Amsterdam: Keukenhof & Tulip Farm Full-Day Trip with Windmill Cruise
    from
    €84.50
    From Amsterdam: Keukenhof & Tulip Farm Full-Day Trip with Windmill Cruise. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1891 ratings.From €84.50
    Free cancellation
    Sightseeing boat on Amsterdam canal with passengers waving, historic buildings in background.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise on Electric Boat
    from €17.50
    €14.44
    17% off
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise on Electric Boat. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 2592 ratings.From €14.44
    Free cancellation
    Guests enjoying drinks on a covered canal cruise in Amsterdam.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option
    from €21.45
    €19.30
    10% off
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 830 ratings.From €19.30
    Selling out fast
    Man holding Amsterdam scarf at Johan Cruijff ArenA during VIP tour.
    Johan Cruijff ArenA
    Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium VIP Tour with a Drink and Scarf
    from €62
    €55.80
    10% off
    Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium VIP Tour with a Drink and Scarf. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 3123 ratings.From €55.80
    Free cancellation
    NEMO Science Museum interactive exhibit and Amsterdam canal cruise boat near historic buildings.
    NEMO Science Museum Tickets
    Combo: NEMO Science Museum Tickets + Amsterdam Canal Cruise
    €40
    €34
    15% off
    Combo: NEMO Science Museum Tickets + Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 464 ratings.From €34
    Free cancellation
    Canal boat near traditional thatched houses in Giethoorn, Netherlands.
    Giethoorn Day Trips
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Day Trip with Boat Tour
    €59
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Day Trip with Boat Tour . Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 5 ratings.From €59
    Free cancellation
    Visitors enjoying The Upside Down Amsterdam and a canal cruise boat on Amsterdam's waterways.
    Combo
    Combo (Save 10%): The Upside Down Tickets + Amsterdam Canal Cruise
    €41.45
    €37.44
    10% off
    Combo (Save 10%): The Upside Down Tickets + Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 1627 ratings.From €37.44
    Free cancellation
    Women enjoying burgers and wine on a canal cruise in Amsterdam.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 90-Min Evening Cruise with Pizza and Drinks
    €39.50
    €33.58
    15% off
    Amsterdam: 90-Min Evening Cruise with Pizza and Drinks. Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 17 ratings.From €33.58
    Free cancellation
    Amsterdam tram on city street and canal cruise boat near Westerkerk.
    Combo
    Combo (Save 16%): Amsterdam GVB Public Transport Pass + 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise
    from €27.50
    €23.22
    16% off
    Combo (Save 16%): Amsterdam GVB Public Transport Pass + 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 4757 ratings.From €23.22
    Free cancellation
    Johan Cruijff ArenA tour group and Amsterdam canal boat near bridge.
    Combo
    Combo (Save 32%): Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium Tour + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise
    from €43
    €29.28
    32% off
    Combo (Save 32%): Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium Tour + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 3530 ratings.From €29.28
    Free cancellation
    Small electric boat tour through Giethoorn canal with traditional houses and bridge.
    Giethoorn Day Trips
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Small-Group Day Tour with Electric Boat Ride
    €128
    €115.20
    10% off
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Small-Group Day Tour with Electric Boat Ride. Rated 0 out of 5 from 0 ratings.From €115.20
    Free cancellation
    Guests enjoying the Cloud Boat Cruise with canal view.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Smoke-Friendly Cloud Boat Tour
    from €27
    €23.76
    12% off
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Smoke-Friendly Cloud Boat Tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 33 ratings.From €23.76
    Free cancellation
    Amsterdam canal cruise with people enjoying drinks and smoking on a boat.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Smoke-Friendly Cruise with 2 Drinks on Semi-Open Boat
    €28.43
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Smoke-Friendly Cruise with 2 Drinks on Semi-Open Boat. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 12 ratings.From €28.43
    Free cancellation
    Small open boat cruising Amsterdam canal with passengers, historic buildings, and arched bridge in view.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 75-Minute Small Open Boat Canal Cruise
    from €20.50
    €19.06
    7% off
    Amsterdam: 75-Minute Small Open Boat Canal Cruise. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 27 ratings.From €19.06
    Free cancellation
    Amsterdam canal cruise boat passing under illuminated bridge at dusk.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1.5 Hour Evening Canal Cruise
    from €19.50
    €18.52
    5% off
    Amsterdam: 1.5 Hour Evening Canal Cruise. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 152 ratings.From €18.52
    Free cancellation
    Tourists enjoying drinks on a canal cruise in Amsterdam.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Adult-Only Luxury Electric Boat Canal Cruise with Optional Unlimited Drinks
    from
    €30.82
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Adult-Only Luxury Electric Boat Canal Cruise with Optional Unlimited Drinks. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 20 ratings.From €30.82
    Free cancellation
    Amsterdam canal with boats and Westerkerk tower during evening guided cruise.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Luxury Evening Canal Cruise on Saloon Boat with Onboard Bar
    from
    €21.81
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Luxury Evening Canal Cruise on Saloon Boat with Onboard Bar. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 159 ratings.From €21.81
    Free cancellation
    Canal boat in Amsterdam with wine and cheese setup, city buildings in background.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
    from
    €31.45
    Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 1731 ratings.From €31.45
    Free cancellation
    Wine being poured into a glass on an Amsterdam cruise table setting.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 90-Min Adult-Only Evening Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
    €35
    Amsterdam: 90-Min Adult-Only Evening Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 1622 ratings.From €35
    Free cancellation
    Guests posing inside Barbie-themed boxes at The Dream Experience exhibit.
    Combo
    Combo (Save 7%): The Upside Down Amsterdam Tickets + Barbie: The Dream Experience Tickets
    €50.95
    €47.17
    7% off
    Combo (Save 7%): The Upside Down Amsterdam Tickets + Barbie: The Dream Experience Tickets. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 1475 ratings.From €47.17
    Free cancellation
    Canal boat cruising past the dome of St. Nicholas Church in Amsterdam.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 75-Min City Centre Sightseeing Cruise
    from €13.50
    €12.56
    7% off
    Amsterdam: 75-Min City Centre Sightseeing Cruise. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 4794 ratings.From €12.56
    Free cancellation
    Tulips in bloom at Keukenhof Gardens with a windmill in Amsterdam.
    Keukenhof Tickets
    Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip from Amsterdam
    from €92.50
    €83.25
    10% off
    Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip from Amsterdam. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 48 ratings.From €83.25
    Free cancellation
    Amsterdam canal cruise on a flower-adorned boat with passengers enjoying the view.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Exclusive Tulip Experience on a Luxury Open Boat
    from
    €31.72
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Exclusive Tulip Experience on a Luxury Open Boat. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 30 ratings.From €31.72
    Free cancellation
    Couple enjoying a luxury romantic cruise in Amsterdam with city views.
    Sightseeing Cruises
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Luxury Romantic Saloon Boat Cruise with Bubbles & Bites
    from
    €36.45
    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Luxury Romantic Saloon Boat Cruise with Bubbles & Bites. Rated 3.9 out of 5 from 14 ratings.From €36.45
    Show more

    The Amsterdam Canal Cruise Experience

    Discover the effortless charm of an Amsterdam canal cruise that reveals the city’s historical beauty from unique water-level perspectives. Perfect for time-savvy travelers, this journey blends captivating architecture, engaging stories, and breathtaking scenery into a relaxed, immersive experience for both first-time visitors and culture enthusiasts.

    Glide past heritage

    Sail through the historic canal belt featuring 17th-century architecture and charming bridges. The panoramic views from a glass-roof boat provide a stress-free way to immerse in Amsterdam’s rich cultural legacy.

    Absorb local narratives

    Listen to expert commentary recounting tales of Amsterdam’s Golden Age as you cruise along winding canals. Engaging stories and live guides transform simple sightseeing into an educational, unforgettable experience brimming with local charm.

    Savor onboard comforts

    Enjoy modern amenities like cozy seating and panoramic windows that showcase Amsterdam’s enchanting scenery. The thoughtfully designed boats offer a relaxed atmosphere, making every moment aboard comfortable and perfectly suited to a leisurely exploration.

    Capture unique vistas

    Snap postcard-worthy photos of iconic canal vistas and illuminated bridges as dusk falls. The shifting light and scenic reflections offer rare, water-level perspectives that turn every snapshot into a memorable visual keepsake.

    Experience effortless mobility

    Board conveniently at central hubs without the hassles of traffic or long walks. Frequent departures ensure flexibility, letting you incorporate a serene cruise into your busy itinerary effortlessly while enjoying Amsterdam on your terms.

    Things to know before booking an Amsterdam cruise

    Geography & route : Amsterdam’s waterways comprise 165 canals forming the historic 17th-century Canal Ring, linking grand merchant houses, stone bridges, and bustling houseboats. This immersive water-level route efficiently introduces you to the city’s architectural and cultural highlights.

    Cruise types : Various cruise options cater to every traveler; from a one-hour sightseeing tour with audio commentary, intimate candlelight cruises with wine and cheese, to extended dinner experiences. This diversity helps you match the cruise format with your schedule and mood.

    Boat hardware : Canal boats in Amsterdam vary significantly; traditional glass-roofed vessels provide panoramic views while enclosed, heated boats ensure year-round comfort. Choosing the right boat hardware affects your exposure to weather, so check details before booking.

    Duration : Canal cruises generally last between 60 to 75 minutes, offering a concise yet comprehensive tour of Amsterdam’s major sights with periodic commentary. Longer thematic or dinner cruises extend beyond the standard duration, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

    Time of day : Daytime cruises emphasize clear architectural details and vibrant city life, while evening tours feature enchanting illuminated canals with a romantic vibe. Choosing the optimal time aligns your experience with desired ambiance and visual highlights, so schedule accordingly.

    Which Amsterdam cruise is right for you?

    Experience Amsterdam’s historic canals on a relaxed sightseeing cruise. Glide past UNESCO-listed canals and charming canal houses while enjoying engaging commentary that unveils the city’s rich heritage in just one hour.

    • Type of boat: Modern glass-roof enclosed canal boat
    • Key sights: UNESCO-listed canals and iconic bridges
    • Inclusions: Live guide and audio commentary
    • Ideal for: First-timers and culture lovers

    Top rated cruise operators in Amsterdam

    Lovers Canal Cruises

    The vibe: Classic, comfortable, heritage-rich
    Why choose them: Operating for over 70 years, Lovers Canal Cruises offer a quintessential Amsterdam experience aboard large, glass-roof saloon boats with multilingual commentary. Their enclosed, heated vessels ensure comfort in any weather—ideal for families and first-time visitors.
    Departure: Damrak.

    Blue Boat Company Cruises

    The vibe: Family-friendly, local, engaging
    Why choose them: Blue Boat Company, a family-run operator, delivers quality audiovisual storytelling in over 20 languages. Their versatile fleet effortlessly switches from open-top to enclosed boats as needed, and their service is included in the I Amsterdam City Card for added convenience.
    Departure: Leidseplein.

    Flagship Amsterdam Cruises

    The vibe: Boutique, intimate, lively
    Why choose them: Flagship Amsterdam provides a boutique experience on smaller, fully electric boats with live, engaging guides. Their personalized storytelling and vibrant ambiance create a memorable, authentic journey for travelers seeking an intimate cruise away from the crowds.
    Departure: Central Station.

    Popular Amsterdam cruise routes

    Central Canal Loop

    Route: Round-trip loop through the historic UNESCO canal belt.
    Duration: 60–75 mins
    Key sights: Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, Herengracht, Prinsengracht

    Extended IJ Bay Route

    Route: One-way ride from the city center to IJ Bay and back.
    Duration: 75–90 mins
    Key sights: NEMO Science Museum, A’DAM Tower, Rijksmuseum, Amstel Bridge

    Evening Illuminated Route

    Route: Circular night loop covering downtown canals and bridge lights.
    Duration: 60–75 mins
    Key sights: Magere Brug, Dancing Houses, Seven Bridges, Stopera

    What you will see

    Westerkerk

    A towering 17th-century church near the Anne Frank House, beautifully framed by Amsterdam’s historic canal.

    Anne Frank House

    View the canal façade of this poignant landmark that hints at a deep chapter in history.

    Magere Brug

    Admire the iconic white wooden drawbridge, glowing elegantly when illuminated against the night sky.

    Montelbaanstoren

    Spot the 16th-century defensive tower rising gracefully along the canal, a timeless Amsterdam landmark.

    Dancing Houses

    Witness the quirky tilt of canal houses that lean at odd angles, earning their playful nickname.

    Seven Bridges View

    Capture a postcard-perfect vista of seven arches aligned elegantly over the shimmering canal.

    Planning your Amsterdam cruise

    • Best season: Spring to early autumn offers mild temperatures and open-boat options; winter cruises rely on heated, enclosed cabins.
    • Day vs night: Daytime highlights canal-house details and photos; sunset and evening emphasize reflections, bridge lights, and a calmer mood.
    • Pro tip: Mid-morning or weekday departures are usually quieter and easier for boarding.

    Tips for your Amsterdam cruise

    • Arrive early: Aim to arrive 15–20 minutes ahead to secure your favorite deck spot and avoid a last-minute rush.
    • Layer up: Bring a light jacket and layers since Amsterdam’s canal breezes can bring an unexpected chill along the water.
    • Check seating: Most cruises offer free seating, so choose a window or outdoor spot for panoramic canal views.
    • Best photo angle: For ideal snapshots, position yourself on the side facing Amsterdam’s iconic gabled houses and charming bridges.
    • Plan ahead: Book popular sunset or dinner cruises in advance to ensure a place on these highly sought-after journeys.
    • Enjoy the vibe: Relax and absorb the serene waterways, vibrant history, and lively commentary for a truly immersive experience.
    • Stay flexible: Enjoy spontaneous moments when local boats pass by and share unexpected historic tales during the cruise.

    Frequently asked questions about Amsterdam cruises

    • Sightseeing tours typically last about 60–75 minutes, while dinner cruises can run for 2 to 2.5 hours.

    • Most cruises board from central locations like Central Station, Damrak, or near the Rijksmuseum. Advance booking is recommended during peak season.

    • Standard sightseeing tours generally omit meals, but many dinner or themed cruises offer complimentary drinks and a full dining experience.

    • Many vessels feature ramps and step-free boarding options. Check vessel details before booking to meet specific accessibility needs.

    • Cruises operate in various weather conditions with covered seating and heating. Departures may be delayed in severe weather.

    • While some operators accept walk-ins, online booking is recommended to secure your preferred departure time and avoid long waits.

    • Most tickets offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure; however, specific terms may vary, so review the policy when booking.

    • Early evenings offer illuminated views, while spring and summer provide pleasant weather and longer daylight. Choose based on your desired experience.

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    What our guests say

    Veton H

    Family
    4 days ago

    +6 more

    For our first time in Amsterdam I wanted to make it special to my family so I picked out one of the most famous museums there. Our journey started off well when we were mesmerized by the gardens we saw first up front. Continuing with our entrance we didn't need to wait much as per our pre-booked tickets. The staff at the door was very nice. All of the staff talked great in English and as tourist we felt integrated. The museum was enormous, had a lot to see. The art pieces gave our family a touch to Dutch history and the beauty of it. We recommend to have a guide because unfortunately we didn't have one and prehaps it was bigger than I had assumed and the idea that I could handle it alone was... wrong. Hopefully my daughters helped me a lot. We also recommend to go early morning because it can be crowded.But people there were really respectful! One of the craziest thing I might have seen there was the library! We were observeing the architecture when we saw really people reading and studying downstaris and the tourist up here were really respectful by being quiet! If you get tired there were portable chairs at the reception that you could take with you, very thoughtful! There was also a type of restaurant that was placed in a beautiful part. Tip: don't miss the gardens and also best time to vist: April and May. Overall it was and experience that I would choose it again. I'm so glad that this museum was on my list. Thank you Amsterdam!

    Combo: Amsterdam Light Festival Small Group Cruise + Access to Rijksmuseum

    Koay P

    Malaysia
    Solo
    Last week
    If you really appreciate art work, take more time in Rijkmuseum. I went at 9.15am and had to rush out at 3pm for canal cruise. The cruise was pleasant as it was sunny! Suggest doing these 2 separate day or book canal cruise later at 4pm or 5pm. Take note to bring earbud for free app usage if not you will have to pay Euro 6.50 per device for the art narration. I think you can do without it as well but it will take longer to read all the descriptions.

    Combo: Amsterdam Light Festival Small Group Cruise + Access to Rijksmuseum

    Osman O

    Netherlands
    Group
    4 days ago

    +3 more

    Our boat tour in Amsterdam was absolutely wonderful. The views were breathtaking as we admired the city from the window, with its charming canals and beautiful scenery. It became even more special when we moved to the back of the boat, where there was an open area like a lovely floating terrace on the water. That part truly made the experience unforgettable. The captain was extremely kind, cheerful, and full of humor. He made us laugh a lot with his engaging commentary and explanations of the places, buildings, and bridges we passed. He is an excellent tour guide with extensive knowledge of Amsterdam. We also really enjoyed having our favorite drinks on board, which made the whole experience even more delightful.

    Amsterdam: 75-Min City Centre Sightseeing Cruise

    Daniel H

    Austria
    Group
    Last week
    The crew—and especially the captain—were incredibly friendly and helpful; they gave us an excellent tour of the canals and provided insightful commentary along the way

    Amsterdam: 75-Min City Centre Sightseeing Cruise

    Monica R

    United States
    Group
    6 days ago
    Such a fun and relaxing cruise-a great way to enjoy Amsterdam from the water. Alexia was a fantastic guide/bartender, and Fons was the best captain! He even gave our group a wonderful dinner recommendation for afterwards. I highly recommend this cruise!

    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Adult-Only Luxury Electric Boat Canal Cruise with Optional Unlimited Drinks

    Luca P

    Group
    6 days ago

    +4 more

    Great deal—I saved a few euros, plus I didn't have to wait in line for a ticket. Best of all, the app is very convenient and easy to use, letting you buy various packages and even split them by day and person. I recommend it for anyone who needs to book in advance.

    Combo: Madame Tussauds Amsterdam + Heineken Experience Tickets

    Volker G

    Couple
    Last week
    A very friendly captain with fascinating insights into the history of Amsterdam and entertaining anecdotes that perfectly complemented the automated commentary. A 60-minute cruise that even went beyond the advertised extra 15 minutes. All in all, an absolute must-do during a visit to the Venice of the North

    Amsterdam: 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise

    Klaus S

    Solo
    Last week
    The purchase went smoothly, and you could take the tram and scan your ticket at the scanner when boarding. The return trip was no problem either. Great!

    Combo: Amsterdam GVB Public Transport Pass + 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise

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