Amsterdam: Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option

Exploring Amsterdam by boat is a classic experience, but doing it with drinks in hand elevates the fun to another level. The Canal Booze Cruise offered by Starboard Boats is a lively, social way to see the city’s iconic waterways — with optional unlimited drinks to keep the party going. This tour scores high on reviews, with a solid 4.6 out of 5 from thousands of happy travelers, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family (over 18, of course), this cruise offers a relaxed yet engaging way to enjoy Amsterdam’s sights.

One of the best things about this experience is the knowledgeable guides who keep the commentary entertaining and informative. Plus, the stunning canal views combined with a friendly, small-group atmosphere make it feel intimate and authentic. A possible downside? The tour is about an hour long, which is perfect for a quick overview but might leave those craving more time feeling a tad short. Still, it’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting a fun, social, and relaxed way to explore the city’s waterways.

This booze cruise is best suited for adults looking for a lively social experience — perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers wanting to meet new people. If you love scenic views, a touch of alcohol, and a friendly vibe, this is likely to be a memorable highlight of your Amsterdam trip.

Key Points

• Authentic canal experience with scenic views of Amsterdam’s famous waterways.
• Small group sizes (max 26 people) for a more personal and lively atmosphere.
• Options to upgrade to unlimited drinks, making it a great choice for socializing.
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts and keep the vibe fun.
• Partly covered boats ensure comfort on rainy days without sacrificing the view.
• Multiple departure points in the city center or Red Light District for convenience.

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

The Experience in a Nutshell

This is a one-hour cruise that promises a lively, friendly environment with plenty of opportunities for socializing. The boat is electric, eco-friendly, and designed to be partly covered, so if the weather isn’t perfect, you’re still in for a good time. The number of guests is capped at 26, which strikes a nice balance between intimacy and lively energy.

You begin your journey at one of three starting points — either Oudezijds Voorburgwal, The Starboard Dock, or the Red Light District — giving you flexibility depending on where you’re staying or exploring. From there, the boat takes you through key parts of the city, including the main canals, Amstel River, and some of the most scenic bridges and hidden gems only locals know.

The Route and Stops: What Makes Them Special?

Stop 1: Multiple Starting Points
Depending on where you’re staying or prefer to meet, you can choose between Oudezijds Voorburgwal, the Red Light District, or Central Station. The flexibility means less hassle, and being close to your accommodation makes the experience more seamless.

Stop 2: Red Light District
A quick 10-minute cruise through one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods. It’s a fun way to see the area from the water, especially as the guide shares interesting tidbits about its history and vibe.

Stop 3: Amsterdam Central
A brief 5-minute cruise past the bustling station area, giving you a sense of the city’s lively core.

Stop 4: Oudeschans
Another 5-minute stretch, offering picturesque views of historic buildings and quaint neighborhoods.

Stop 5: Main Canals
This 25-minute segment is the highlight — cruising along Amsterdam’s iconic waterways lined with historic facades. This part often gets rave reviews, as travelers love the way the city’s charm is illuminated from the water.

Stop 6: Herengracht & Seven Bridges Viewpoint
A 10-minute cruise past the elegant Herengracht, followed by a quick stop at the Seven Bridges View Point for some great photo moments — reviewers especially enjoyed this visually stunning spot.

Stop 7: Prinsengracht
A 10-minute cruise along a canal famous for its houseboats, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere.

The Atmosphere and Guides

What truly makes this cruise stand out are the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Multiple reviews mention guides like Sabrina, Emma, and Freddie, who bring both humor and interesting facts. Guests mentioned Sabrina’s great vibes and her ability to keep everyone engaged, making the experience feel more like hanging out with friends than just a sightseeing tour.

The guides’ insights into the city’s sights, combined with their fun personalities, elevate the cruise from a mere water ride to a memorable social event. The small group size fosters a lively, personal vibe — it’s easy to chat with neighbors or ask questions, making the experience more engaging.

The Drinks: Unlimited, or Just a Little?

The optional open bar is a major draw. For a small extra fee, you can indulge in unlimited beer, wine, and soda. Reviewers rave about the value, with many saying the drinks kept flowing and added to the relaxed, party-like atmosphere. If you prefer a more modest approach, the basic option includes 2 drinks, which still provides a good taste of Amsterdam’s pub culture.

Guests shared that the rose with Fanta was a surprising hit — a combination not often found elsewhere, but appreciated for its sweetness. Some reviewers also mentioned that the drinks are reasonably priced considering the unlimited option, making it a fun, budget-friendly way to unwind.

Comfort & Weather Considerations

Since the boat is partly covered, rain won’t ruin your cruise, a big pro for unpredictable Dutch weather. Just remember, if it’s a rainy day, you’ll still be protected from the elements while enjoying the views. The electric boat ride is smooth and quiet, allowing conversation without shouting over engine noise.

Why the Reviews Agree

Readers consistently highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which makes the cruise both fun and informative. Sabrina, in particular, received multiple compliments for her vibrant personality and ability to make everyone feel at home. Many also appreciated the stunning scenery and the relaxed vibe, with some mentioning how the low-key, social atmosphere made it easier to meet other travelers.

The value for money is another recurring theme — with the modest price of $22 and the option for unlimited drinks, most feel they got a solid deal. The mix of scenery, drinks, and guides’ humor creates a memorable social experience.

Possible Downsides

While most loved the cruise, some noted that one hour might feel a bit short if you’re a scenery or photo enthusiast. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly. Lastly, the lack of restroom facilities on the boat is a common complaint, so it’s worth using the facilities before boarding.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for adults who enjoy social drinking, scenic waterways, and lively guides. Perfect for friends celebrating, couples looking for a fun date idea, or solo travelers eager to meet others. If you’re after a more relaxed, less party-oriented cruise, this might not be your best fit.

In essence, if you want a fun, interactive way to see Amsterdam’s canals, with the chance to chat, relax, and enjoy some drinks, this tour hits the sweet spot. Its affordability, small-group vibe, and friendly guides make it a standout option for those looking for an evening of good company and beautiful scenery.

The Sum Up

This Canal Booze Cruise offers a lively, enjoyable way to explore the heart of Amsterdam from the water. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning canal views, and the option for unlimited drinks makes it an excellent choice for social travelers. The tour’s small size means you’ll feel more like a guest among friends than just a tourist, adding to its appeal.

The value is clear — for a modest price, you get a scenic cruise, fun company, and plenty of drinks to keep the mood festive. It’s a relaxed, informal experience that perfectly suits those wanting to mingle, laugh, and soak up Amsterdam’s charming waterways.

While it’s not suited for families with children or people with mobility limitations, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a bit of fun with their sightseeing. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, authentic way to see the city, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? No, the tour is only for travelers over 18, as alcohol is involved and the experience is geared toward adults.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Where do I meet for the cruise? The meeting point varies depending on your booking choice, with options in the city center or Red Light District. Check your confirmation for the exact location.

Does the boat have shelter from rain? Yes, the boat is partly covered, so you can stay dry if it rains.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts about one hour, making it a quick but enjoyable introduction to Amsterdam’s canals.

What’s included in the basic price? The standard ticket includes the cruise, a skipper, and a host. Upgraded options provide the open bar and extra drinks.

Are there any group size restrictions? Yes, the maximum capacity is 26 people, ensuring a friendly, intimate environment.

All in all, this canal booze cruise offers a straightforward, fun, and reasonably priced way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways with friends, drinks, and good company. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, it’s likely to add a memorable splash to your trip.