Amsterdam: Evening Pizza Cruise Along the Canals

This evening pizza cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals promises a relaxed, tasty way to see the city from the water. With a heated boat, unlimited drinks, and New York-style pizza, it’s a popular choice for groups seeking a casual yet memorable experience. The cruise lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a perfect addition to an evening itinerary.

What really makes this cruise stand out is the combination of comfort—thanks to the heated boat—and the informative commentary from the captain and host. Plus, the unlimited drinks (wines, beers, or soft drinks) and delicious pizza make it feel more like a social gathering than just a sightseeing tour.

One potential drawback? The seating arrangement is arranged prior to departure, and groups making separate bookings might not be seated next to each other. If sitting together is important, booking all tickets at once helps ensure that. This experience suits those looking for a fun, informal way to enjoy Amsterdam’s views with good food and drinks in a friendly environment.

Key Points

• Relaxed and scenic: Enjoy Amsterdam’s charming canals from a heated boat with a cozy atmosphere.
• Great value: Includes New York pizza, unlimited drinks, and informative commentary, making it a solid budget-friendly choice.
• Comfort features: The boat is heated, has Wi-Fi, and restroom facilities, adding to your comfort.
• Group friendly: Ideal for friends, families, or small groups wanting a casual, fun evening.
• Booking tip: To sit together, book all tickets in one reservation.
• Authentic insights: Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the tour both entertaining and educational.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Accessibility

The cruise departs from Damrak Pier 5, just a short 3-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. That’s a major plus, especially if you’re arriving by train or have luggage in tow. The ease of access makes this tour very approachable, even if you’re unfamiliar with the city.

What to Expect on the Boat

Once aboard the heated boat, you’ll find yourself comfortably settled with a welcome drink and some salty snacks—ideal for cooling down after a day of exploring. The boat offers Wi-Fi and restrooms, which are small but appreciated touches on a water-based tour.

The Atmosphere and Commentary

The cruise crew, including a lively captain and friendly host, deliver stories about the UNESCO World Heritage site that is the Canal Belt. As they point out landmark sites like the Anne Frank House, Brouwersgracht, and Magere Brug, they keep the mood light and engaging. Reviewers repeatedly mention the crew’s knowledgeable and friendly nature, with some describing them as “a touch of comedians,” which adds humor and personality to the tour.

Food and Drinks

The highlight for many is the pizza—a classic New York style, with vegetarian options like Margherita and Californian Veggie, and meat options such as Pepperoni, Hawaii, and Chili Chicken. The pizzas are cooked fresh and served hot, with reviewers frequently mentioning how delicious and crusty they are.

Unlimited wines, beers, or soft drinks are included, which guests say flows freely throughout the cruise. This makes the experience feel more like a casual social gathering, perfect for relaxing and chatting.

The Itinerary and Views

The cruise takes you past key sights like Amsterdam Central Station, Brouwersgracht, Prinsengracht, and even the Anne Frank House from a unique water perspective. As described in multiple reviews, travelers love the stunning views of the historic merchant houses, picturesque bridges, and iconic landmarks like the Magere Brug.

While the commentary is lively, some say a little more historical detail would enhance the experience. Still, the atmosphere of drifting beneath illuminated bridges with a slice of pizza in hand remains enchanting.

Considerations and Tips

• Seating Plan: Since Stromma arranges seats before departure, groups wanting to sit together should book all tickets at once.
• Weather: The boat is heated, but if it’s particularly cold or windy, dressing warmly is recommended.
• Timing: Check availability, as starting times vary, and plan to arrive a few minutes early.
• Duration: The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which feels sufficient to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Overall Value

Based on many reviewers’ comments, this tour offers excellent value. For a reasonable price, you get a scenic waterway tour, a tasty pizza, and unlimited drinks. Several reviews highlight how it’s a great deal, especially considering the included food and drinks, and the knowledgeable crew.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This evening cruise is ideal for groups of friends, families, or couples looking for a relaxed, informal way to enjoy Amsterdam. If you love good food, lively commentary, and scenic views, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect if you want a social experience that’s less about rigid sightseeing and more about enjoying the atmosphere with some great company.

However, if you’re seeking a more educational or luxurious experience, or have specific dietary needs, you might find this tour more casual than others. Still, for a fun evening that combines food, drinks, and a scenic water tour, it’s difficult to beat.

FAQ

Is the boat heated?
Yes, the boat is heated, making it comfortable even on chilly evenings.

Can I choose my pizza topping?
You can select from a menu of New York-style pizzas, with vegetarian and meat options available.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, unlimited wines, beers, and soft drinks are included during the cruise.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Damrak Pier 5, just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Can I sit with my friends?
Seating is arranged before departure, so booking all tickets together guarantees sitting as a group.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, making it a good choice for families.

Final Thoughts

This Amsterdam evening pizza cruise offers a pleasant mix of scenic canal views, lively storytelling, and good food and drinks. It’s a relaxed way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, providing both comfort and entertainment in a friendly atmosphere. The inclusion of unlimited drinks, tasty pizza, and friendly guides makes it particularly appealing for those wanting a casual, social experience without breaking the bank.

While it’s not a deep historical tour, the combination of views, food, and fun makes it a hit among many travelers. The small details, like Wi-Fi and restrooms, add to the overall convenience, ensuring a comfortable journey.

If you’re after a laid-back, enjoyable way to see the city by night while sharing a pizza and drinks with friends or family, this cruise is well worth considering. It’s perfect for a relaxed evening out that balances sightseeing, eating, and socializing—all in one enjoyable package.

Experience the magic of Amsterdam from the water, complemented by good company and excellent pizza—this cruise offers a genuinely memorable way to end your day.