Amsterdam: Luxury Cruise Unlimited Cocktails & Snacks Option

Taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam is almost a rite of passage, but this particular experience elevates it with luxury touches, unlimited drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. As someone who’s researched numerous boat tours in the city, I can tell you this one from Friendship Amsterdam scores high on both quality and value — especially if you love having a drink in hand while soaking in iconic sights.

What really caught our eye was the generous open bar options, including unlimited gin and tonics, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Plus, the added bonus of homemade liquor ‘Friendship in a bottle’ makes it stand out. The cozy ambiance, friendly guides, and the chance to see landmarks like NEMO Science Museum and the Magere Brug from the water make this a memorable outing.

One thing to consider, however, is that the boat schedule varies with weather conditions, so be prepared for possible adjustments if it’s rainy or windy. This tour best suits travelers who enjoy relaxed, social experiences, appreciate good drinks, and want a flexible, comfortable way to see Amsterdam’s canals without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Unlimited drinks include gin, beer, wine, and soft drinks, with upgraded options for cocktails and prosecco.
• Authentic touches like homemade liquor and Dutch cheese snacks add a local flavor.
• Flexible options for open or closed boats, with multiple starting points and stops.
• Engaging guides provide entertaining commentary and local insights.
• Comfortable experience with blankets and cozy seating, suitable even in cooler weather.
• Great value for the price, especially with the open bar upgrade.

Exploring the Experience

This cruise lasts about an hour, which is just enough time to unwind, enjoy some drinks, and take in a bunch of sights without feeling pressed for time. The tour is operated by Friendship Amsterdam and offers various starting points and drop-off locations—mainly around the city center—making it convenient whether you’re staying nearby or coming from elsewhere.

The Itinerary and Landmarks

The cruise features a well-chosen route that passes by key landmarks. Starting at one of three locations, you’ll begin your voyage on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal or nearby spots, setting out into the historic waterways.

As the boat glides along, you’ll pass by well-known sights including the Red Light District, the NEMO Science Museum, and the Montelbaanstoren—each offering a different slice of Amsterdam’s character. The view of the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) is particularly charming, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle.

You’ll also see the Prinsengracht and the Amsterdam Flower Market from the water, providing a different perspective on these bustling areas. The route is carefully designed to give a balanced look at both the historic and modern sides of the city.

What to Expect Onboard

The boat itself can be either open or closed, depending on the weather, but both options feature cozy seating, blankets, and a relaxed vibe. Reviewers consistently praised the comfortable, non-crowded environment—most boats are well-spaced, so you won’t feel cramped even during peak times.

The crew, often highlighted for their knowledgeable and friendly manner, serve drinks throughout the trip, with some reviewers noting that they never let glasses go empty. As one reviewer mentioned, guides like Kim Joy, Cecilia, and Janine “gave us a fabulous tour,” and many found the hosts to be hilarious, attentive, and very hospitable.

The Drinks and Snacks

The open bar is undoubtedly one of the main attractions. You can opt for the classic package, which includes beer, wine, and soft drinks, or the deluxe version, adding cocktails and prosecco. Several reviewers appreciated the quality of drinks, noting that the cocktails, in particular, were delicious and well-made.

On the snacks front, unlimited Dutch cheese snacks are included with the open bar, which adds local flavor and a nice touch of authenticity. Some reviews mentioned that the snacks could be a bit simple—cheese sticks or cheese straws—but considering the overall experience, that’s a minor point.

The Authentic Touches

One of the features that sets this tour apart is the homemade liquor called ‘Friendship in a bottle’, which many reviewers found to be a fun, local addition. It’s a small but memorable detail that emphasizes the personal touch of this experience.

The Route and Landmark Highlights

The itinerary balances sightseeing with comfort. Starting from central locations like Oudezijds Voorburgwal, the boat makes its way past notable sites like the Red Light District, giving you a glimpse of the city’s lively and historic areas. The route also includes views of Our Lord in the Attic Museum, NEMO, the Montelbaanstoren, and the Magere Brug.

The boat continues along the Amstel River, offering scenic views of Amsterdam’s iconic architecture and waterways. Passing the Flower Market and central neighborhoods, the cruise provides a panoramic overview of the city’s vibrant life.

Authentic Insight from Reviewers

Many guests have highlighted how the guides’ commentary added value to the trip. For example, one reviewer said, “The guides were very friendly and made us feel very welcome,” and appreciated the captain’s interesting narration about the landmarks.

The End of the Tour

The cruise concludes at one of the three drop-off points, conveniently located close to the starting locations, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your hotel.

Price and Overall Value

The tour’s pricing includes the cruise, guide, and drinks and snacks, making it an excellent value for money. The upgrade to an open bar significantly enhances the experience, especially for those who enjoy socializing over drinks. Many reviewers found the quality of drinks and friendly service justified the cost.

While it doesn’t include attraction tickets or hotel transfers, the focus on a relaxed, all-in-one experience means you can enjoy the city’s sights without any stress. For those wanting a more luxurious and social way to see Amsterdam, this cruise offers great value with flexible options.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy relaxing social outings. The unlimited bar and informal, friendly vibe make it ideal for those looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid overly structured tours—the flexibility and comfortable ambiance mean you can just sit back and enjoy.

It’s less suitable if you’re mobility-impaired, as it doesn’t specify accommodations for those with mobility challenges. Also, if you’re looking for a more active or educational tour, this might not be the best fit. But if good drinks, lovely views, and friendly guides are your priorities, this cruise hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for rainy days?
Yes, the boat operates in both dry and rainy weather; the open or closed boat options help you stay comfortable regardless of the forecast.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your place now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Are there different starting points?
Yes, the cruise begins at different locations, including Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Stationsplein, depending on your booking choice.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately one hour, enough time to relax and see key sights without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket covers the canal cruise, guide, drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, cocktails, prosecco) with the upgrade, and Dutch cheese snacks.

Is this tour private or shared?
It operates as a shared tour, but private options are available if you prefer a more exclusive experience.

Are snacks included?
Yes, unlimited Dutch cheese snacks are included with the open bar options. Reviewers noted the snacks were simple but tasty.

Are there any age restrictions?
There’s no specific mention of age restrictions, but as alcohol is involved, it’s primarily suitable for adults.

Final Thoughts

This Amsterdam canal cruise with unlimited cocktails and snacks offers a relaxed, sociable way to enjoy the city’s waterways. The combination of friendly guides, excellent drinks, and scenic views makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting a bit of luxury without breaking the bank.

If you love unlimited drinks, authentic experiences, and a comfortable atmosphere, this cruise should be on your list. It’s especially perfect if you’re visiting during warmer months when the weather allows for open boats and longer, more enjoyable sittings on the water.

While it might not suit those with mobility issues or travelers seeking a highly educational tour, it excels at providing a fun, social, and picturesque experience of Amsterdam’s iconic canals. The positive reviews about guides like Kim Joy, Cecilia, and Janine, and the quality of drinks and views, support its reputation as a memorable, value-packed outing.

In essence, this cruise is a delightful way to combine sightseeing, socializing, and indulging in some local flavors—making it an experience worth considering for your Amsterdam trip.