Amsterdam: Private Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Imagine cruising through Amsterdam’s iconic canals, with nothing to worry about but enjoying the sights and drinks. This private canal booze cruise offered by Starboard Boats is designed to give you a luxurious, relaxed way to see the city’s scenic waterways while sipping on unlimited beverages. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 16 reviews, this experience promises a mix of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the exclusivity of a private boat — all topped off with an open bar.

What we really like about this cruise is how it combines a sense of intimacy with the lively atmosphere of a drinks tour. Plus, the opportunity to learn some interesting tidbits about Amsterdam’s landmarks from your local host adds a nice touch. The only potential downside? At just one hour, it’s a relatively brief tour, so you might want to consider if you’re seeking a more extensive exploration. Perfect for celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends, or simply indulging in a unique way to experience the city, this cruise hits many of the right notes for a memorable outing.

Key Points
– Private and customizable: Perfect for celebrating or intimate gatherings.
– Unbeatable views: See Amsterdam’s historic landmarks from the water.
– Unlimited drinks: Enjoy a well-stocked open bar with beer, wine, and soda.
– Knowledgeable guides: Learn fun facts about the city’s canals and history.
– Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
– Ideal for various occasions: Birthdays, proposals, or just a fun day out.

The Experience: A Closer Look at the Cruise Itself

This private canal cruise isn’t just a ride — it’s a carefully curated experience designed to maximize comfort, fun, and spectacle. After meeting at the designated starting point at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, you’ll find staff wearing a signature blueshirt marked “Starboard,” ready to assist you onboard. The boat itself is covered and luxurious, ensuring you’re cozy no matter the weather, and the entire journey lasts around an hour — enough time to take in the sights without the trip feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins with a gentle glide through the heart of the city, passing by some of Amsterdam’s most photographed spots. The first notable stop is the Red Light District, which is just a brief 15-minute cruise past, offering a glimpse into one of the city’s most infamous areas. From there, the boat moves toward the NEMO Science Museum, a quick 5-minute pass that gets you a peek at the city’s modern side.

Next, the route takes you along Prinsengracht for about 10 minutes, where charming houseboats and historic buildings line the water. The Herengracht segment lasts approximately 20 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to admire the elegant architecture that makes Amsterdam famous. The boat then approaches the Seven Bridges View Point for a quick 5-minute stop, often a favorite for photos, before continuing through the broad, scenic canals.

Finally, the cruise loops around the Canals of Amsterdam for about 20 minutes, offering expansive views of the city’s waterways, bridges, and waterfront homes. We loved the way the guides shared anecdotes about the city’s development and the stories behind some of the landmarks, adding a layer of insight beyond just the visual feast.

What Makes the Views Special?

The beauty of this cruise lies in the combination of history, architecture, and tranquility. You’ll see centuries-old buildings with gabled facades, bustling bridges, and quiet waterfronts. Reviewers like Victoria have mentioned how informative and engaging the guides, Nico and Simon, are — they add personality and local knowledge that enriches the visual experience.

The Drinks and Atmosphere

The open bar is a major highlight. With unlimited beer, wine, and sodas, you can toast to your trip without worrying about extra charges. Reviewers have appreciated the attentive staff who keep glasses topped up, creating a lively yet relaxed ambiance. One guest suggested including sprite/7up and Prosecco to diversify the options, which might be worth requesting in advance.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Value for Money: At $256 per person, this cruise offers a balanced mix of exclusivity, entertainment, and scenic beauty. The private nature means you’re not squeezed among strangers, and the unlimited drinks elevate the experience from a simple boat tour to a celebration. Especially if you’re celebrating a milestone or want a special way to explore, this package delivers a lot for the price.

Personalized Service: The presence of a local host ensures you’re well taken care of. From helping with boarding to sharing stories about the landmarks, guides Nico and Simon add a personal touch that many larger group tours lack.

Booking Flexibility: The ability to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund offers peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs. You should bring along your passport or ID, and a driver’s license if you plan to partake in alcoholic beverages. The meeting point is straightforward: look for staff in a blue shirt labeled “Starboard,” ready to assist you.

The tour runs in English, and you can reserve your spot without paying upfront. This flexibility is great for planning your itinerary around other activities.

Who Is This Cruise Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating an anniversary, groups of friends looking for a fun and relaxed outing, or visitors wanting a unique, private way to see Amsterdam’s canals. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere combined with stunning scenery and a bit of storytelling.

If you’re after a longer, more comprehensive cruise, or want additional amenities like snacks or a silent disco (as some similar experiences offer), other options might suit you better. However, for a 1-hour, private, drinks-inclusive adventure, this cruise ticks many boxes.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam Private Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, personalized service, and relaxed fun. Its private setting makes it perfect for celebrating special moments, while the knowledgeable guides and open bar add entertainment and value. If you’re seeking an intimate, scenic, and lively way to explore Amsterdam’s waterways, this cruise will give you a memorable snapshot of the city — with the added bonus of great drinks and good company.

While the tour is relatively short, its exclusivity and comfort make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a high-quality experience without the crowds. It’s a delightful way to toast to Amsterdam’s unique charm and create lasting memories with friends or loved ones.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, which provides enough time to enjoy the scenery and drinks without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet the boat?
Meet at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, where staff in a blue “Starboard” shirt will assist you in boarding.

Is the cruise private?
Yes, this experience is designed for private groups, offering an intimate setting perfect for celebrations or special occasions.

What drinks are included?
You’ll enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and sodas throughout the cruise, with staff ensuring your glasses are always topped up.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

Is this accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for guests with mobility needs.

This private canal cruise stands as a versatile, fun, and scenic way to see Amsterdam from the water. Its combination of exclusivity, knowledgeable guides, and unlimited drinks make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to add a splash of celebration to their visit.