Amsterdam: Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks

Exploring Amsterdam by boat is always a treat, but combining it with a private BBQ, unlimited drinks, and a personal chef elevates the experience to something truly memorable. This private cruise, offered by Flagship Amsterdam, promises not just scenic views but also a culinary adventure on the city’s famous waterways. With a solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 66 reviews, this tour has earned its reputation for being a fun, relaxed, and delicious way to see the city.

What makes this experience stand out in a city famous for its canals? The combination of personalized service, a carefully curated menu—including vegetarian options—and the cozy, private setting. We love the idea of having the boat all to yourself or your group, avoiding crowded tourist spots, and instead enjoying a laid-back meal while drifting past iconic sights.

One potential consideration is that, due to recent restrictions, there’s no music allowed during the cruise, which might impact the vibe for some. Still, this tour suits those who enjoy good food, drinks, and a more intimate, guided experience. It’s perfect for groups celebrating special occasions, couples wanting a romantic outing, or travelers who simply want to see Amsterdam from a truly unique vantage point.

Key Points

• Intimate, Private Experience: The cruise caters exclusively to your group, providing a personalized touch.
• Culinary Quality: A freshly prepared BBQ menu, with vegetarian options available, ensures a satisfying meal.
• Unbeatable Views: Travel along Herengracht, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, and past the Red Light District.
• Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks keep the mood lively and relaxed.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Friendly skippers and chefs with helpful commentary make the trip informative.
• Value for Money: At $369 per person, many find the experience well worth the price given the food, drinks, and exclusivity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

A Scenic Route with a Personal Touch

The cruise departs from a meeting point next to the Sea Palace Chinese restaurant, marked clearly by the crew in bright orange jackets. From there, you’re whisked away onto a private boat, with your group the only passengers. The boat itself is a cozy setting, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sights without the hustle and bustle of larger tour boats.

You’ll glide along some of Amsterdam’s most famous canals—Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht—each lined with historic buildings and picturesque bridges. The route also takes you past the Red Light District, offering a different perspective of this iconic neighborhood from the water. The guides are local skippers who provide insightful tidbits about the city’s history and architecture, making the journey both scenic and educational.

The Culinary Experience

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is the live BBQ cooking. The onboard chef prepares a range of grilled delights, including options like pepper steak, shashlick, chicken satay skewers, sausages, and hamburgers. Vegetarian guests aren’t left out—they can enjoy vegetarian satay, veggie burgers, veggie chicken, and veggie skewers, all accompanied by fresh salads like raw vegetables, potatoes, Russian, and cucumber salads.

Guests consistently praise the generous portions and high quality of the food, with reviews mentioning that “you get a lot of it” and that the sausages, in particular, are a highlight. The sauces—garlic, cocktail, BBQ, and satay—add extra flavor, and focaccia bread with herbed butter rounds out the meal nicely.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks keep the atmosphere lively. Reviewers mention the good selection of drinks and the friendliness of the crew, making it easy to relax and enjoy the moment. Although music isn’t permitted on the canals due to new restrictions, the friendly chatter, beautiful scenery, and delicious food create a warm, convivial mood.

Service and Guides

Guests consistently praise the crew’s hospitality and knowledge. Vincent, the guide mentioned in reviews, is described as “great” and “helpful,” adding a friendly, personable element to the cruise. The live cooking adds a special touch, and the crew’s attentiveness means your glasses stay filled without fuss.

Duration and Practicalities

The cruise lasts around 2 hours, a perfect length for a relaxed meal without feeling rushed. The group is private, so you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, making it ideal for celebrations or intimate outings. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus, ensuring many travelers can enjoy this experience.

You can reserve and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

Value for Money and Who It’s Best For

At $369 per person, this experience is on the higher end of the city tour spectrum, but considering the private setting, gourmet BBQ, unlimited drinks, and guided service, many find it offers good value. It’s an all-inclusive, hassle-free way to combine sightseeing, dining, and relaxation—all on your terms.

This tour works exceptionally well for special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries, where a memorable, personalized experience is desired. It’s also perfect for food lovers who appreciate well-prepared grilled fare and a relaxed, intimate setting. If you enjoy a mix of scenic views and culinary delights, this cruise hits the mark.

Who Might Not Love It?

Travelers seeking a lively, party atmosphere with music and dancing might be disappointed, as music isn’t permitted under current regulations. Also, those on a tight budget might find $369 steep, especially if they prefer self-guided or free sightseeing options.

Final Thoughts

This private BBQ cruise in Amsterdam offers a delightful blend of scenic canal views, delicious food, and friendly service. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the city from a different perspective—on the water, with a gourmet meal at your fingertips. The knowledgeable guides and the personal chef ensure that both the experience and the quality of the food are top-notch, making it a solid choice for those who want something more exclusive and relaxed.

If you’re after a refined, intimate, and tasty way to explore Amsterdam, this tour is an excellent pick. The combination of private setting, unlimited drinks, and live cooking creates a memorable experience that’s worth the price, especially for special occasions or groups looking for a unique outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. You must inform the provider at least 48 hours in advance to ensure your dietary preferences are accommodated.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private cruise, live BBQ cooking, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, and a friendly local skipper.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts roughly 2 hours, making it a perfect length for a relaxed yet engaging outing.

Where do we meet for the cruise?
The departure point is next to the Sea Palace Chinese restaurant. Look for the crew in orange jackets.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more travelers to enjoy this experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your situation shifts.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available, and you should notify the provider at least 48 hours prior to your tour date.

Is there live commentary during the cruise?
Yes, guides provide insights about the city and the sights along the route, enhancing your understanding of Amsterdam’s history and architecture.

In summary, this private BBQ cruise offers a relaxed, scenic, and delicious way to see Amsterdam. Perfect for those who value personalized service, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a memorable addition to any trip. Just remember to book in advance and communicate your dietary needs to get the most out of this cozy, culinary canal adventure.