Amsterdam: The Bulldog Boat Smoke Cruise

Amsterdam: The Bulldog Boat Smoke Cruise offers a laid-back way to see the city’s iconic canals. At around $35 per person, this one-hour open-air boat trip combines sightseeing with a relaxed, party-like vibe, complete with two complimentary drinks and a smoke-friendly policy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a different perspective of Amsterdam’s waterways, this tour is designed to entertain and chill.

What we really love about this experience is how it brings a sense of community and freedom—it’s not just about the sights, but about enjoying the atmosphere with friendly guides and fellow travelers. That said, a key consideration is that this tour is smoke-friendly and encourages guests to bring their own cannabis or coffee-shop purchases, which might not suit everyone. It’s best suited to those looking for a fun, informal outing where they can relax, socialize, and take in Amsterdam’s canals from a different angle.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Combines canal sightseeing with a relaxed, smoke-friendly environment.
• Great Value: Includes two drinks, making it an affordable way to enjoy the city at night.
• Informative Guides: Hosts are described as funny, knowledgeable, and welcoming.
• Flexible: Guests can bring their own snacks, drinks, and cannabis, adding to the casual vibe.
• Ideal for Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, bachelor(ette) parties, or just a chill day out with friends.
• Limited for Children: Not recommended for those under 18, given the alcohol and smoking policies.

An Honest Look at the Bulldog Boat Smoke Cruise

The charm of this tour lies in its straightforward, relaxed approach to experiencing Amsterdam’s famed canals. For just under $35, you’re getting an hour of floating fun, vibrant commentary, and the ability to customize your experience with your own snacks and smoke. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a standard cruise — it’s about socializing and soaking in the city’s sights from a fresh vantage point.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides two alcoholic drinks, which is quite generous for the price. Guests can choose to bring their own drinks, snacks, and cannabis, making this a highly customizable outing. The tour is also smoke-friendly, a feature that sets it apart from many other canal cruises. This flexibility is appreciated by many, with reviews praising the friendly atmosphere and the hosts’ understanding of their guests’ desires.

However, no snacks are sold onboard, so bringing your own refreshments is essential if you’re feeling peckish. Also, if you’re hoping for a guided commentary packed with historical facts, keep in mind that the focus here is more on the social experience and less on detailed narration.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour covers the UNESCO-listed canals that give Amsterdam its world-famous charm. The itinerary is straightforward, with the boat leaving from a central location, usually near the train station or Leidseplein, depending on your chosen departure point.

Guests have mentioned that the boat’s route primarily focuses on Amsterdam’s residential canal scenes, offering a different perspective than the typical tourist spots. The guides are praised for their humor and local knowledge, making the experience both fun and informative. One reviewer noted, “The guide was funny and informed and a good driver,” which highlights the importance of a skilled skipper and engaging crew to enhance the trip.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Views

The open-air boat allows for a breezy, unimpeded view of the canals, which look especially beautiful at night when the city lights reflect off the water. Many reviews mention that the boat is comfortable and well-driven, with smooth handling through the low bridges and narrow waterways.

The atmosphere is relaxed, with chilled music often in the background, and guests are encouraged to enjoy their drinks and smoke freely. The experience is best described as low-key and convivial, making it an ideal choice for groups wanting to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Guides and Hosts: What Sets Them Apart

What truly elevates this cruise are the friendly, knowledgeable hosts. Reviewers have called the guides “hilarious,” “full of facts and stories,” and “awesome,” emphasizing their role in creating a welcoming vibe. One reviewer noted that the staff was “friendly and knowledgeable,” and another said, “Our young boatman was skillful, as you must be to do left turns under low bridges,” highlighting the guides’ local expertise and driving skills.

The guides also add humor and personality, making the hour pass quickly and leaving guests with good memories and stories to tell. This personable touch makes the experience stand out compared to more formal or strictly sightseeing-focused cruises.

Price and Value for Money

At around $34.89 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering that drinks are included and guests can bring their own alcohol and cannabis. The reviews repeatedly emphasize how reasonable the price is, especially given the fun, relaxed environment and the chance to see Amsterdam from the water without the hefty price tag of more traditional tours.

While some may feel that the experience is casual, for many, that’s exactly what makes it enjoyable: it’s a no-pressure, easy-going trip that’s more about the vibe than the details.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who are looking for an informal, social experience. It suits those who appreciate a bit of freedom—being able to smoke and drink at their leisure—without the constraints of a more structured tour. It’s particularly popular for celebrations like birthdays or bachelor(ette) parties.

However, it might not be the best choice for families with minors or travelers seeking a more educational or scenic cruise. Those who prefer a more traditional, narrated tour may find the focus on socializing and partying less appealing.

The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

In summary, The Bulldog Boat Smoke Cruise offers a genuinely laid-back way to enjoy Amsterdam’s iconic canals. It’s well-loved for its friendly hosts, the flexibility to bring your own drinks and cannabis, and the chance to see the city from a new angle. The 1-hour trip is a perfect length—just enough time to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a casual, fun, and slightly rebellious way to experience Amsterdam’s waters, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially valuable for groups wanting to celebrate or just enjoy some downtime in a friendly atmosphere. The included drinks and the freedom to bring your own make it a good deal, and the enthusiastic reviews underline the overall positive vibe.

While the casual nature might not satisfy everyone—particularly those longing for a more structured or scenic narrative—the overall experience is authentic and memorable. For a laid-back, social canal cruise that embraces the city’s open-minded spirit, this is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for guests under 18 due to alcohol and smoking policies.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Yes, you’re allowed to bring your own drinks, snacks, and cannabis. The tour provides two drinks if you select the Central Station departure option, but you can bring your own.

What’s included in the tour?
You get approximately an hour on the water, with two drinks included if departing from Central Station. The tour is smoke-friendly, so bring your own cannabis if you wish.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from central locations in Amsterdam, with options including near Central Station or Leidseplein, depending on your booking.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the boat covered in winter?
No, especially in winter, the boat is open-air. Reviewers advise against booking in colder months unless you’re prepared for the chill.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a relaxed, social way to see Amsterdam’s canals with the freedom to enjoy your own cannabis, The Bulldog Boat Smoke Cruise offers great value and authentic fun. It’s best suited for groups wanting a memorable, informal experience in a friendly, open-minded environment. Just remember to dress warm if you’re visiting in winter, and bring your own snacks and beverages for the full enjoyment.