Amsterdam Private Dinner Cruise incl Drinks & 2-course Dinner 2hr

An In-Depth Look at the Amsterdam Private Dinner Cruise: A Perfect Blend of Scenery, Cuisine, and Comfort

Imagine floating through Amsterdam’s charming canals aboard a sleek, private boat—your own floating dining room—offering a relaxed yet indulgent way to explore the city’s sights. This private dinner cruise promises a cozy, intimate experience with a 2-hour voyage that combines delicious food, refreshing drinks, and the chance to see famous landmarks from a completely different perspective.

One of the features we love most about this experience is the personalized dining element. You get to choose your preferred restaurant from a selection before boarding, and once on the water, you can select your meal from an à la carte menu while sipping wine, beer, or soda. Plus, the route is designed to pass by sights like the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) and the Anne Frank House, offering views usually blocked by crowds on land.

However, a key consideration is the price—at around $438 per person, this experience is definitely on the higher end. While the quality of the food and the atmosphere is praised, it’s worth considering whether the cost aligns with your vacation budget. This cruise suits travelers who treasure culinary experiences, enjoy scenic waterways, and seek a private, relaxed setting for an evening with friends or a loved one.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private, only your group participates, providing a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Gourmet Dining: Choose from a variety of local restaurant options and enjoy a tailored 2-course meal onboard.
• Stunning Views: Pass by iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Houseboat Museum without the crowds.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Sip on wine, beer, soda, and enjoy coffee or tea, with champagne available at an extra charge.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about 43 days ahead, highlighting its popularity.

Overview of the Experience

This cruise combines Amsterdam’s culinary delights with the city’s scenic waterways in a way that feels both luxurious and authentic. Starting at Oosterdokskade, your adventure begins by selecting a restaurant that suits your group’s tastes—options are likely curated for popularity and quality. Once aboard, you’re handed a menu from which you can order a 2-course meal, delivered fresh during the cruise.

The route itself is carefully curated to showcase the city’s most photographed sights, including the Magere Brug and the Houseboat Museum—a historic sail ship turned residence. Unlike busy land tours, this cruise allows you to enjoy these views without the typical crowds, making it a more peaceful way to soak in the atmosphere. Passengers often comment on how good it is for photo opportunities and seeing the city from a different vantage point.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: Oosterdokskade 8 is conveniently accessible via public transportation, which is a big plus for many travelers. The route includes cruising past landmarks like the Anne Frank House—a sight that’s especially poignant from the water—as well as the Houseboat Museum, a 1914 sail ship that represents Amsterdam’s innovative approach to city living.

While not a traditional tour with numerous stops, the boat does make some slow passes where you can admire the sights at leisure. The cruise is approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to relax, enjoy your meal, and take plenty of pictures.

What makes this special? Many reviews mention how the route allows for a more crowd-free experience of Amsterdam’s most famous sights. Reviewer Laurel_L highlighted the opportunity to learn about the city’s culture and history from the guide on board, Captain Carl, who made the trip informative and fun.

Onboard Dining: Food and Drinks

The 2-course dinner is a major highlight. Guests can select dishes from an a la carte menu, which is a nice touch—no set menu here. The quality of the meal is generally praised, with some reviews emphasizing how delicious and well-prepared the food is. One reviewer described the meal as a “lovely meal” with some calling the food “fantastic.”

Included are wine, beer, soda, and coffee or tea, which allows for a relaxed, all-inclusive experience. Champagne can be purchased separately if you’re celebrating something special. The ability to enjoy drinks at your own pace while cruising adds a layer of comfort to the experience.

An important note from reviews: guides and hosts make a difference. Captain Nickel, for example, was praised for his friendliness and attentiveness, making guests feel well looked after. One guest, Conner_D, called the host “amazing” and highlighted how much they enjoyed his presence during the cruise.

What Travelers Are Saying: Authentic Feedback

Feedback is remarkably positive, with a perfect 5-star rating from all 63 reviews, but what makes the reviews stand out are the specific insights. Laurel_L mentioned sailing with Captain Carl and enjoying a “lovely meal,” while other guests appreciated the knowledgeable guides like Sven and Mark, who made the trip engaging and informative.

One reviewer expressed that the boat was in excellent condition and appreciated the easy communication with the team. Several guests found the boat’s vantage points ideal for photo opportunities, with some capturing stunning shots of the city skyline during sunset.

On the flip side, there was a review mentioning the cost—some found it overpriced for an “average” experience, emphasizing the importance of weighing the cost against the personalized, scenic nature of the cruise. Still, many felt the quality of food and ambiance justified the price.

Practical Details and Tips

The meeting point at Oosterdokskade is easily reachable via public transit, making it accessible even for those without a car. The cruise starts and ends at the same location, simplifying logistics for travelers.

Booking about 43 days in advance is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and restaurant choice. The experience is private for your group, which means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, adding to the sense of exclusivity and privacy.

Weather considerations: Since the cruise is outdoor, poor weather could lead to cancellations. The company offers full refunds if canceled due to weather conditions, provided you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Overall Value and Who Should Consider This

This private dinner cruise offers a luxurious way to explore Amsterdam’s waterways with the bonus of a gourmet meal and drinks. Its personalized service and stunning views make it ideal for special occasions, romantic evenings, or even a memorable outing with friends.

While the price is steep, many reviews suggest that the quality of food, the privacy, and the scenic route justify the expense, especially if you value intimate experiences and premium service. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a more exclusive way to enjoy the city’s famous canals and landmarks.

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize high-quality dining, enjoy water-based sightseeing, and are comfortable paying a premium for a private, stress-free adventure. If you’re after a lively, bustling tour with lots of group interaction, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving quiet elegance and authentic views, this cruise hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose the restaurant before the cruise?
Yes, you select from a list of popular Amsterdam restaurants before booking, ensuring your preferred cuisine or ambiance.

Is the cruise suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, since you order à la carte onboard, it’s likely you can request special dietary needs directly with the restaurant.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 2 hours, offering enough time for a relaxed meal, sightseeing, and photos.

Are drinks included?
Yes, wine, beer, soda, and coffee/tea are included. Champagne is available at an extra charge.

Is the experience accessible?
The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to inquire directly if needed.

What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel for a full refund if done more than 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Can I bring my pet or service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed, but check with the provider beforehand to confirm any specific requirements.

What’s the booking process?
Most travelers book about 43 days in advance, and the tickets are mobile for convenience. Simply select your date, restaurant, and meal preferences when booking.

In Summary, this private dinner cruise in Amsterdam offers a refined way to enjoy the city’s canals, combining personalized dining, scenic views, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, exclusivity, and high-quality cuisine, making it a memorable highlight for special occasions or romantic evenings. While the cost isn’t trivial, many guests feel it’s a worthwhile investment for the experience of cruising through Amsterdam’s iconic waterways with good food and great company.