BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Haarlem while satisfying your appetite, the BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise offers a delightful blend of sightseeing and gourmet dining. This two-hour private boat ride takes you through the city’s charming waterways, with a focus on enjoying mouthwatering grilled dishes served right on the water. It’s a great choice for food lovers, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience with a culinary twist.

One feature that truly shines is the quality and variety of the food, prepared by an onboard chef ensuring each bite is full of flavor. The added bonus? It’s a private experience, so your group can savor the moment without the hustle and bustle of larger tours. However, considering the price, which hovers around $78 per person, it’s worth weighing the value of a flexible, intimate cruise combined with a tasty meal. This tour is ideal for those who love combining sightseeing with gourmet treats and prefer a more personal touch.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience perfect for small groups or special occasions
• Gourmet BBQ menu with options for meat and vegetarians
• Scenic canal views of Haarlem’s most iconic sights
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights about the city
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Convenient pickup and mobile tickets make planning easier

An In-Depth Look at the Haarlem BBQ Cruise

Understanding what this experience entails helps set expectations and allows you to decide if it fits your travel style. The BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise is designed to combine the magic of Haarlem’s waterways with a delicious, freshly cooked meal. It’s organized by Eventsonwater Haarlem, a provider known for creating memorable water-based experiences.

The Itinerary: A Gentle Tour with a Tasty Twist

The cruise begins at Bisschoppelijk Paleis, Nieuwe Gracht 80, and takes you through some of Haarlem’s most recognizable sights. Every stop on the route is a highlight, even if you’re just passing by.

• Archeologisch Museum Haarlem: Housed in a former Meat Hall, this museum’s exterior provides a glimpse into the city’s historic roots. While you won’t go inside, cruising past gives an instant sense of Haarlem’s layered past.
• Teylers Museum: As the oldest museum in the Netherlands, its elegant location on the Spaarne makes it a picturesque backdrop. The exterior alone hints at its wealth of art, science, and natural history collections—perfect for photo ops.
• Molen De Adriaan: This windmill, dating back to 1779, is a symbol of Haarlem’s industrious spirit. Watching it turn from the boat offers a rare angle of a classic Dutch landmark.
• Sint-Bavokerk: Passing by this neo-Gothic basilica, you’ll get a sense of Haarlem’s religious architecture and history. It’s a stunning sight with its tall spires and detailed façade.
• Municipal Theater Haarlem: The historic theater’s Art Nouveau features add a touch of cultural charm, hinting at the city’s vibrant arts scene.
• Jopen Brewery: The tour concludes near a former church turned brewery, where you might glimpse locals enjoying locally brewed Jopen beers.

Throughout the cruise, guides like Mo stand out for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, sharing interesting facts about each site—adding depth to the scenic journey. One reviewer mentioned how Mo’s humor and insights made the cruise special, even when minor booking hiccups arose.

The Food: A Feast on the Water

The real star of this cruise is undoubtedly the onboard BBQ. The chef prepares a selection of grilled meats and vegetarian options, ensuring each guest leaves full and satisfied. Reviewers have praised the quality and plentiful portions, with one stating, “Auto-translated, the food was plentiful and of good quality.” It’s clear that the emphasis is on providing a gourmet experience rather than just snacks.

Having the meal served on the boat creates a relaxed, social atmosphere—you’re not just taking in views but actively savoring them with excellent food. The menu’s variety caters to different tastes, making it suitable for groups with mixed preferences.

Comfort, Convenience, and Overall Experience

The cruise lasts approximately two hours, balancing enough time to enjoy the sights and a hearty meal without feeling rushed. Pickup options are available, and mobile tickets make it easy to hop on without fussing over paper documents. Being a private tour, only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.

The reviews highlight the professionalism of the staff—one traveler appreciated how the team resolved a booking issue, and another mentioned the pleasantness of Haarlem by river. The small size of the group fosters a friendly, intimate setting, perfect for families, couples, or friends.

Pricing and Value

At about $78.19 per person, this cruise might seem a touch premium, but when you consider that you’re getting a private boat, a full BBQ meal, and a guided tour of Haarlem’s canals, it offers good value. The exclusivity and quality make it more than just a sightseeing activity; it’s a culinary experience on the water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for foodies who enjoy scenic waterway views, those celebrating special occasions, or travelers wanting a relaxed way to explore Haarlem without the crowds. It’s also ideal for smaller groups looking for a personalized touch, especially if they appreciate good food and interesting guides.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book in advance, as this experience is popular—on average, booked 34 days ahead.
• Check cancellation policies; free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour allows flexibility if your plans change.
• Arrive at least a few minutes early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• If you have dietary restrictions, confirm your meal options when booking to ensure a suitable menu.
• The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible without a car.
• Service animals are allowed, so it’s inclusive for travelers with assistance needs.

The Sum Up

The BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise offers a surprisingly rich experience—a blend of scenic canal views, engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides, and a delicious, well-prepared BBQ meal. It’s a perfect way to see Haarlem from a different perspective, all while indulging in flavors that satisfy both meat lovers and vegetarians.

While the price might be on the higher side, the intimacy, quality of the food, and the charm of cruising through Haarlem’s waterways make it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or simply a unique day out. The small-group setting, combined with the personal touch of guides like Mo, ensures you’ll leave with memorable stories and gorgeous photos.

This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, gourmet experience that combines the best of Haarlem’s scenic beauty with hearty, flavorful cuisine. If you’re after an authentic, personalized activity that’s easy to fit into your itinerary, this cruise might just be the highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is this a private tour? Yes, the BBQ cruise is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, adding to the personal atmosphere.

How long does the cruise last? The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time for sightseeing and dining without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price? The price covers the private boat experience, guided commentary, and a gourmet BBQ meal with options for meat and vegetarians.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds available.

Where does the tour start? The tour begins at Bisschoppelijk Paleis, Nieuwe Gracht 80, Haarlem, a convenient location near public transportation.

Is there a dress code? No specific dress code is required; casual, comfortable clothing suitable for being outdoors is ideal.

Are food allergies or dietary restrictions accommodated? Confirm your dietary needs during booking to ensure your meal is suitable—most options can be tailored.

Is the cruise suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate. The experience is family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy scenic views and good food.

What if the weather is bad? Check the cancellation policy—if the weather prevents the cruise, you can cancel or reschedule without penalty.