Amsterdam: The Newest Canal Cruise with Drink Option

If you’ve ever visited Amsterdam or are planning a trip, you know the city’s canals are its heartbeat—a maze of waterways lined with historic buildings, quirky houses, and lively neighborhoods. This recent addition to the city’s sightseeing options offers a modern, eco-friendly way to soak in the sights while enjoying the company of a knowledgeable local skipper and, optionally, a refreshing drink. With an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 1,186 reviews, it’s clear this cruise hits the mark for many travelers.

What makes this experience stand out is the small, intimate boat that can navigate narrower canals inaccessible to larger vessels, plus the flexibility of an open, partly covered, or fully covered boat depending on the weather. We love that the tour combines authentic local storytelling, stunning views of iconic sights, and the chance to sit back with a drink of your choice—whether wine, beer, or soda.

However, a consideration for some travelers is the duration—at just 1 hour, it’s a quick tour, which might leave those craving more of the city’s charm a little wanting. That said, it’s a perfect option for those seeking a relaxed, scenic overview of Amsterdam’s highlights without a hefty price tag or commitment.

This cruise is ideal for first-timers wanting a compact overview, families with young kids, or anyone who appreciates sustainable travel and local insights. If you’re after a laid-back experience that balances sights, stories, and a little bubbly, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: The boat’s size allows for navigating narrower canals, providing a more personalized experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Local skippers speak English and Dutch, and detailed digital booklets are available in eight languages.
• Flexible Weather Options: Depending on the forecast, the boat transitions from open-air to fully covered, ensuring comfort.
• Iconic Sights: Viewpoints include the Skinny Bridge, Dancing Houses, Oudeschans, and more.
• Optional Drinks: You can enhance your ride with unlimited soft drinks, beer, or wine—adding a relaxed vibe.
• Affordable Price Point: At $22 per person, it offers great value for a scenic, guided tour of Amsterdam’s canals.

Why This Tour Is a Smart Choice for Travelers

This canal cruise ticks many boxes: affordable, environmentally friendly, small-group, and rich in local storytelling. The electric boat not only reduces emissions but also allows you access to parts of the canal belt that larger boats can’t reach. Imagine gliding through narrow waterways, passing historical sights, and hearing stories from a local skipper—all with the option to sip on a drink as you go.

The reviews speak to its quality. Guests have lauded the professionalism of guides like Jean Paul, Max, and Igor, and the personalized, friendly atmosphere on board. Many mention how the smaller boat makes the experience more intimate and allows access to hidden corners of the city.

Plus, the digital brochure in multiple languages ensures that non-English speakers or international visitors can still learn about the sights without missing out. This thoughtful touch helps make the cruise accessible and informative for everyone.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting in front of Amsterdam Central Station, the tour’s meeting point is easy to find—look for the dark green flag and welcoming staff in dark blue Eco Boats shirts. The journey lasts roughly an hour, which makes it perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day without feeling rushed.

As the boat departs, you’ll cruise through the UNESCO-listed canal belt, passing by landmarks like the Schreierstoren Oosterdok, the Oude Kerk, and the Sea Palace. The captain might vary the route based on external factors, but you can expect to see the Skinny Bridge, the Dancing Houses, and the Amstel River as key highlights.

Throughout the trip, your guide—fluent in English and Dutch—will share stories and insights about each sight. Reviewers like Lyndsey and Olivia highlight how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Captain Cat and Jan Paul made their trips memorable. One guest described the guide as “very knowledgeable and friendly,” emphasizing how the personal touch enhanced the experience.

The Highlights, in Detail

The Sights

You’ll pass by some of Amsterdam’s most photogenic landmarks: the Dancing Houses with their quirky architecture, the Montelbaanstoren, and the Blauwbrug Bridge. For history buffs, the Oudeschans district offers a glimpse of old Amsterdam, while the HART Museum provides cultural context.

The Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest building, is a frequent photo stop, and the Sea Palace, a floating Chinese restaurant, offers a unique view on the canals. The tour also takes you past the Zeedijk Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere, and the lively Red Light District—a fascinating juxtaposition of history and modern culture.

The Experience

Guests consistently praise the relaxing atmosphere and personalized service. As Mariia notes, “Our captain Misha was very professional and entertaining,” making the hour fly by. Many mention how the smaller boat allowed for a smoother ride and better access to narrower canals.

Sipping on a beverage (if booked) adds a laid-back vibe, and several reviewers appreciated the unlimited drink options, especially the wine. One wrote, “Captain Sebastian shared interesting info and served a glass of white wine—such a lovely touch.”

Practical Details

The tour runs in various weather conditions, with ponchos and umbrellas available if needed. Be sure to dress warmly in winter or wear sunscreen in summer. The price of $22 includes the digital guide, skipper, and your choice of drink if added.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but it’s accessible to most able-bodied travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic cruise. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

Deeper Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point at Stationsplein 18

The smooth check-in process and clear signage make starting easy. The staff’s friendly demeanor and the recognizable dark green flag set the tone for a hassle-free experience.

Canal Passage

The first part of the cruise introduces you to the canal belt, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you glide beneath historic bridges and past beautifully preserved buildings, your guide shares engaging stories about Amsterdam’s history and architecture.

Sights Along the Route

Each stop offers a photo opportunity and a chance to learn about the city’s past and culture. Some reviews mention that the route can vary, which keeps the experience fresh, but you’ll always see the main sights like the Oudeschans and Dancing Houses.

End of the Tour

Returning to the starting point, you’ll feel relaxed and enriched. Many guests expressed how the small boat and personalized guide made the trip feel exclusive and special.

The Value for Money

At just $22, this cruise offers exceptional value. You get a guided experience, access to scenic waterways, and an optional drink—all in an hour. When compared to larger, more commercial cruises, the small-group, eco-friendly approach provides a more authentic and intimate view of Amsterdam.

Guests consistently mention the excellent guides and comfortable boats, which contribute heavily to the positive reviews. The inclusion of a digital guide in multiple languages** ensures that everyone gains insights, regardless of their native tongue.

This cruise is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic overview of Amsterdam’s iconic sights. It’s great for first-time visitors, families, or solo travelers wanting a quiet, intimate experience. If you’re eco-conscious or appreciate local stories and authentic insights, this tour hits the right note.

Anyone looking for an affordable and informative way to see the city’s waterways will find this cruise a smart choice. The option to include drinks makes it ideal for unwinding while soaking in the views.

This small-group, eco-friendly canal cruise offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxed luxury at an accessible price. The knowledgeable guides, stunning canal views, and optional drinks create a perfect setting for both first-timers and repeat visitors alike. It’s a fantastic way to get a quick yet meaningful taste of Amsterdam’s unique waterways without breaking the bank or feeling rushed.

Whether you’re after classic sightseeing, local stories, or simply want to unwind with a drink in hand, this tour caters to all those desires beautifully. The small boat and personalized service make it a highlight for many travelers—and with such rave reviews, it’s easy to see why it’s become a favorite among visitors to this vibrant city.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick yet scenic overview of Amsterdam’s canals.

Is the boat open or covered?
Depending on the weather, the boat might be open, partly covered, or fully covered, ensuring comfort no matter the forecast.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Drinks are optional and can be booked in advance. The tour offers unlimited soft drinks, beer, or wine if you select the beverage option.

Where does the tour depart from?
The departure point is in front of Amsterdam Central Station, marked by a dark green flag and staff in dark blue Eco Boats shirts.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While generally family-friendly, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Children can enjoy the scenic views and stories from the guides.

What languages are digital guides available in?
The digital brochure is available in English, Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, German, French, and Italian.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in winter and wear sunscreen in summer. The boat provides ponchos and umbrellas in case of rain.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

How many people are typically on this tour?
Being a small-group experience, the boat usually hosts fewer guests, enhancing comfort and personal interaction.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the boats are electric, reducing emissions and offering a more sustainable way to see the city’s waterways.

What’s the best time to take this cruise?
Anytime during daylight hours works, but sunset trips are especially beautiful, as noted by guests enjoying the view at 5:30 pm.

Whether you’re after a quick introduction to Amsterdam or a relaxing break on the water, this canal cruise offers a friendly, insightful, and scenic experience that’s hard to beat at its price point.