75 minute Blue Boat Company City Canal Cruise and Maritime Museum

If you’re looking to combine scenic water views with a touch of maritime history, this tour offers a straightforward way to do both in Amsterdam. The package includes a 75-minute canal cruise operated by Blue Boat Company and entry to the National Maritime Museum, one of the world’s most notable collections of ships, navigation tools, and maritime art.

What we like about this experience is the chance to see Amsterdam from the water, appreciating how the city’s architecture and waterways interconnect, along with learning about its impressive naval history. However, some reviewers have pointed out issues with the audio commentary and comfort on the boat, which can affect the overall enjoyment. This tour tends to suit those interested in a combination of sightseeing and cultural exploration, especially if you prefer a flexible schedule and don’t mind a quieter, less interactive cruise.

While the price of about $48 per person might seem reasonable for the inclusion of both water and museum tickets, it’s worth considering whether the experience meets your expectations for value — especially given some mixed reviews. Overall, if you’re eager to combine water views with history, this could be a solid option, though it’s best for travelers who are flexible and want to avoid overly crowded or overly structured tours.

Key Points

• Combination experience: Enjoy a canal cruise plus a visit to a top maritime museum.
• Flexible timing: The cruise is an “open ticket,” allowing you to hop on any next available boat.
• Mixed reviews on audio quality: Some mention poor audio commentary and small windows for photos.
• Value for money: Includes museum entry and snacks if selected, but some feel it’s overpriced compared to other options.
• Ideal for: Those interested in maritime history and scenic water views, with a flexible schedule.
• Limitations: Some reviewers found the boat uncomfortable and the commentary sparse.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point and the Canal Cruise

The adventure begins at one of two docks near Leidseplein or the Heineken Experience, both easily accessible via tram (service animals are allowed). You’ll board a boat for a 75-minute cruise through Amsterdam’s canals, which are famously lined with 17th-century buildings, vibrant houseboats, and bustling cafés.

This stretch offers a great overview of Amsterdam’s layout from the water, giving a different perspective than walking through the city streets. You’ll glide past landmarks like the Westerkerk, NEMO Science Museum, and the InterContinental Amstel Hotel, which all contribute to the city’s charm. The cruise is narrated with an audio guide, but several reviews mention that the commentary can be sparse or malfunctioning, and on some channels, the audio did not work at all.

The Maritime Museum — A Dive into Dutch Naval History

Post-cruise, you’re directed to the National Maritime Museum, one of the largest collections of maritime artifacts in the world. The museum holds paintings, ship models, navigation instruments, and sea charts spanning 500 years of Dutch seafaring. The museum’s address is Kattenburgerplein, and your ticket is a fixed timeslot, which means you need to arrive at your designated time — no flexibility there.

For those interested in Dutch maritime prowess, this museum is an invaluable resource. It offers a comprehensive look at how Amsterdam evolved into a global trading hub, and the collection is considered one of the most notable worldwide. You’ll also find interactive exhibits like the NEMO Science Museum, which can be a hit for tech lovers or family groups.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

Many travelers appreciate the stunning views from the canal cruise, with some calling it “fantastic.” One reviewer mentioned that the informative audio and captain’s comments added value to the ride, describing the tour as “very informative.” Conversely, others noted that the seats can be uncomfortable, and the audio commentary was disappointingly limited, with one saying the guide “talked for a maximum of 3 minutes in 75 minutes,” which felt like wasted time for some.

Regarding the museum visit, reviews are generally positive, highlighting the quality of the maritime collection. However, some noted that the ticket timeslot is strict, so punctuality is essential. The museum’s collection features paintings, ship models, and historic sea charts, providing a detailed look into Dutch seafaring achievements.

Additional Stops and Nearby Attractions

While the core tour doesn’t include stops outside the canal cruise and museum, the surrounding area is full of sights. The Leidseplein area, where the docks are located, is lively with bars and music venues. Nearby, you’ll find Vondelpark, the Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum, which many visitors explore after the tour.

Some reviewers have mentioned the option to upgrade or seek cheaper alternatives. For instance, other canal cruises for about 14 EUR or those including open bar might offer better value for some travelers. The snacks included during the cruise can be a nice touch, especially if you select the option, but keep in mind the overall value depends on your expectations.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The combination of a canal cruise and a maritime museum offers a balanced look at Amsterdam’s water-based history and scenic beauty. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about the city’s past while soaking in the views, this tour could be a good fit. The flexibility of the open ticket adds an element of convenience, especially if you want to adapt your schedule once on the ground.

However, the mixed reviews about comfort and commentary quality are worth considering. If you prioritize immersive guides and a more luxurious experience, you might prefer a different tour, possibly with more personalized narration or larger boats. Conversely, if you’re on a budget or prefer a self-paced visit to the museum, you might find this package acceptable.

Pricing-wise, at around $48, it’s not the cheapest option, but including both a boat ride and museum entry, it offers a convenient way to see both highlights without separate tickets. Still, some reviewers pointed out that other options provide similar or better experiences at lower costs, especially those with more lively or interactive cruise components.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early at the designated dock to ensure your museum timeslot isn’t missed.
• Bring your own earphones for the audio guide, as some found the provided ones insufficient.
• Consider upgrading to a different cruise if audio quality or comfort are priorities.
• The last cruise from Hard Rock Cafe departs at 6:00 pm, so plan accordingly if you want an evening ride.
• Check the dates when Blue Boat Company is closed, such as Kingsday or Christmas, to avoid disappointment.
• For photography, be prepared for small windows on the boat—small windows can make capturing wide shots tricky.
• If you’re traveling with children, take advantage of the free kids’ audio stories and booklets offered with tickets.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a practical blend of scenic canal cruising and maritime history in Amsterdam. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, flexible way to see key waterways and explore a renowned museum without breaking the bank. The informative collection and beautiful views make it worth considering, especially if you’re interested in Dutch naval achievements.

However, it’s important to set realistic expectations regarding audio quality and comfort. The reviews reveal a mixed experience—some travelers loved the views and the museum, while others felt the cruise lacked engagement. For those who value knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a flexible schedule, this experience can be quite satisfying.

If you’re on a tight budget, or want a more lively or interactive experience, it might be worth exploring other options. But for a casual, scenic introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways and maritime past, this package can serve as a solid, if slightly uneven, choice.

FAQ

Is the canal cruise duration fixed?
No, the cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes but the ticket is an “open ticket,” so you can hop on any available boat at the docks.

Do I need to select a specific time for the museum?
Yes, your museum ticket has a specific timeslot that you must stick to, so arriving on time is crucial.

Are snacks included during the cruise?
Yes, if you select the snack option, a snack box with drinks will be provided during the cruise.

Can I bring my pet on the boat?
Service animals are allowed, but pets generally are not specified; it’s best to check directly with Blue Boat Company for their policies.

What’s the best way to reach the dock?
The docks are close to Leidseplein and the Heineken Experience, both accessible via tram (lines 1, 2, 5, 11, 12). Walks are short, around 2-5 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, and the tour offers free kids’ audio stories and booklets with tickets.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In the end, this combination tour provides a decent overview of Amsterdam’s waterways and maritime heritage, with enough flexibility for a relaxed day. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic-water views, historical collections, and don’t mind some minor imperfections in the cruise experience.