Amsterdam: Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks - What to Bring and What to Expect

Amsterdam: Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks

Celebrate Kings Day in Amsterdam with a lively 90-minute canal cruise including unlimited drinks. Enjoy festive views from the water in comfort.

If you’re thinking about experiencing Amsterdam’s famous Kings Day celebration from a different perspective, the Kingsday Party Cruise with drinks might just be your ticket. This 90-minute cruise offers a lively way to soak in the festivities without getting caught up in the bustling crowds on land. Instead, you’ll glide through the iconic canals, enjoying the party from the water’s perspective, complete with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.

What stands out most about this experience is its combination of celebration and comfort. You get front-row views of the street parties and colorful boats while sipping drinks in a relaxed setting. The friendly crew and lively atmosphere are often praised, making it a memorable way to celebrate this national holiday. However, it’s worth noting that the cruise isn’t suitable for everyone—particularly children under 12 or those with specific mobility needs—so plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a mix of fun, socializing, and unique views of Kings Day. If you love parties, stunning canal scenery, and an easy way to enjoy the festivities without fighting through crowds, this cruise offers both entertainment and convenience. Now, let’s explore what makes this cruise a worthwhile option and what to expect on the water.

Key Points

Amsterdam: Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks - Key Points

  • Unique vantage point: Experience Kings Day from the comfort of a canal cruise with front-row views.
  • All-inclusive drinks: Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks keep the party going.
  • Lively atmosphere: Friendly crew and a festive setting create a fun, engaging environment.
  • Duration and timing: 1.5 hours long, with available start times—check ahead for exact schedules.
  • Limited capacity: Spots fill quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.
  • Suitable for adults: Not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with wheelchair needs.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Kingsday Cruise

Imagine cruising through Amsterdam’s canals, surrounded by historic canal houses decorated in orange, with the city’s biggest street celebrations unfolding all around. As the boat glides along, you’ll pass lively party boats, residents, and visitors dancing and celebrating Kings Day—the Dutch national holiday honoring King Willem-Alexander’s birthday.

The cruise offers a lively, upbeat environment, with music playing onboard that sets the tone for a festive day. The crew, including a knowledgeable guide, keeps the energy high while sharing insights about the city’s landmarks and the celebrations. One reviewer even noted that Jasper, the skipper, prioritized safety and made the trip enjoyable, ensuring everyone had a good time in the hot, sunny weather.

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, with some trips extending to 2 hours depending on availability. During this time, you’ll cruise through Amsterdam’s iconic canals, passing by historic canal houses—some dating back centuries—and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of King’s Day. The water-level views of the street parties and floating bars give a perspective most land-bound spectators miss.

You’ll be able to indulge in unlimited drinks—a feature that adds significant value to the experience. Drinks include beer, wine, and soft drinks, kept cold and topped up by attentive staff. This setup means you can relax, chat, and celebrate without worrying about running out of refreshment. Many guests appreciated the friendly crew, who maintained a lively yet safe environment, and kept the drinks flowing on a hot day.

Why the Water View Matters

Many reviews highlight that cruising the canals during Kings Day offers a less hectic, more relaxed way to enjoy the celebrations. Instead of battling through crowds on the streets, you get to enjoy spectacular views, feel part of the party atmosphere, and take photos from a unique vantage point. This makes the cruise an ideal option for travelers who prefer a more laid-back experience or want to escape the chaos while still being immersed in the festivities.

The Social Aspect

The atmosphere onboard is described as fun and convivial. Guests often mention the lively music, the friendly crew, and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers. For example, one reviewer praised Jasper not only for his professionalism but also for ensuring everyone’s safety while creating a lively, enjoyable environment with very cold drinks on a hot day.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $85 per person, which many see as good value given the duration and inclusions. Considering the cost of drinks on land or tickets to other parties, it’s a convenient way to enjoy the day without additional expenses. Keep in mind this experience doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan to arrive at the departure point 15 minutes early.

The cruise is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, wheelchair users, vegans, or those with mobility issues. This is mainly due to safety regulations, the nature of the onboard environment, and the limited accommodations for specific dietary or physical needs.

The experience is offered in English, and booking in advance is necessary to secure your spot. Flexibility is available with the “reserve now & pay later” option, allowing you to plan without immediate commitment. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Amsterdam: Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks - What to Bring and What to Expect

To make the most of your cruise, consider bringing a camera to capture the festive scenery, sunscreen for sun protection, and comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather. Since smoking and drugs are not allowed onboard, you’ll want to enjoy the party responsibly.

Remember, dressing in orange helps you blend in with the local atmosphere and adds to the fun vibe of Kings Day. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you’re settled and ready to depart on time.

Comparing Similar Experiences

For travelers seeking other water-based Kings Day activities, there are several options available, such as luxury cruises, open bar boats, or themed smoke-friendly cruises. For example, the “Amsterdam Party Boat Experience with Drinks Included” or the “Luxury Cruise with Unlimited Cocktails” might suit those wanting a more upscale or exclusive setting. However, the Kingsday Party Cruise offers a lively, authentic atmosphere at a reasonable price point that’s perfect for those wanting to be part of the big celebration.

The Amsterdam Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks offers an engaging, relaxed way to enjoy the city’s most lively holiday from a unique vantage point. With front-row views, limitless drinks, and a friendly, energetic crew, it captures the essence of Kings Day while providing comfort and ease. Perfect for adults who want to celebrate in style without the chaos of street crowds, this cruise balances fun and practicality.

While it’s not suited for young children or those with specific needs, it remains an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience Amsterdam’s vibrant culture in a social, enjoyable setting. The combination of stunning canal views, lively atmosphere, and excellent value makes this cruise a memorable part of any Kings Day itinerary.

Is this cruise suitable for children under 12?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, mainly due to safety regulations and onboard environment considerations.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are included during the cruise, making it an all-inclusive experience.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, with some trips extending to 2 hours depending on availability.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather.

Is there a dress code?
While there’s no formal dress code, dressing in orange helps you blend in with the Kings Day celebrations.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Are there any restrictions onboard?
Smoking and alcohol or drugs are not allowed onboard for safety and legal reasons.

This lively cruise offers a fantastic way to celebrate Kings Day in Amsterdam, combining scenic views, a festive atmosphere, and unlimited drinks—all in a relaxed setting that beats the crowds on land. Perfect for social travelers and those wanting a memorable, authentic experience from the water.