Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise

If you’re looking to combine scenic views with tasty bites and good drinks, the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a charming way to explore the city’s waterways. This 90-minute boat trip takes you past some of Haarlem’s most picturesque spots, all while you indulge in three carefully selected cheeses paired with quality wines. Guided by friendly hosts, this experience is designed for those wanting a laid-back, social evening in a beautiful setting.

One of the highlights we love is the careful pairing of cheeses with wines, supplied by Café de Paris—this isn’t just a boat ride, but a tasteful journey for your palate. However, it’s worth noting that it’s a relatively short cruise with limited cheese and wine options, so expectations should be aligned with the price point. This experience suits travelers who enjoy relaxed, intimate outings with a focus on quality, rather than a large-scale party or extensive tasting.

Key Points

• Relaxed 90-minute cruise showcasing Haarlem’s scenic waterways and landmarks
• Curated cheese and wine pairing from Café de Paris, emphasizing quality
• Intimate group size with a maximum of 30 travelers, ideal for personal atmosphere
• Good value for the price, especially considering the inclusion of drinks and snacks
• Limited age range — under 18s are not allowed, making it best for adults
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure for flexible planning

An Authentic, Intimate Haarlem Experience

The Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise is designed to be more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an opportunity to enjoy the city’s waterways in a leisurely, convivial setting. For around $40, you get about an hour and a half on a heated boat with a welcoming host and skipper who share some insights about Haarlem’s sights along the way. The atmosphere is described as cozy, with reviews noting the friendly crew and good wine quality.

While some might find the cruise somewhat simple or limited in scope, the understated charm is part of its appeal. It’s a perfect introduction for first-time visitors or those who prefer a quieter, more personal experience over large, bustling tours. The friendly staff, including the hostess and captain, aim to make guests feel comfortable and well-cared for, which is especially appreciated on chilly evenings or during colder months.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise begins at Spaarne 11A, where you’ll meet your hosts, and the journey kicks off at 5:30 pm — an ideal time to catch Haarlem’s enchanting evening light. The boat sails along the Spaarne River, passing many of Haarlem’s notable buildings and attractions, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Key Stops and Passings

• Molen ‘De Adriaan’: Opened in 1779, this iconic windmill stands next to the river and offers a quintessential Haarlem view. While you won’t step inside during this cruise, it’s a charming sight that anchors the city’s historic feel.

• Haarlem City Centre: As you cruise past, you’ll catch glimpses of the beautifully preserved architecture that makes Haarlem so photogenic. The boat’s route gives a gentle overview of the area’s history and design, which reviewers mention as one of the cruise’s most enjoyable aspects.

• Frans Hals Museum: Known as Haarlem’s art hub, this museum’s presence on the water route adds cultural context, even from afar. You might find yourself wishing for a longer visit, but the cruise offers a quick, scenic overview.

• Jopen Church & Brewery: This unique spot combines religious architecture with brewing tradition. During the cruise, you’ll pass by the Jopen brewery housed in a former church, which is a fun nod to Haarlem’s local beer scene. Some reviewers mention a specific “Jopen Beer Cruise” experience, but here it’s more about the passing view and the local flavor.

• Teylers Museum: The oldest museum in the Netherlands, Teylers’ classical façade is visible from the water, adding to the sense of Haarlem’s cultural depth.

The Experience on Board

The boat is heated, making it comfortable even in cooler weather, and there’s a toilet onboard, which is a considerate feature. The crew, especially the hostess, is praised for their friendliness and attentiveness — refilling wine glasses and making sure guests feel at home. The snacks are limited mainly to the three cheeses, paired with three different wines, all selected for their quality and harmony.

The Quality of the Cheeses and Wines

The wines are praised for their quality, with reviewers mentioning that they are “very good” and well-refilled. The cheeses are French and Italian varieties, carefully chosen for their flavor profiles. While the cheese portion is described as “skinny” by some, the focus seems to be more on pairing and atmosphere than a full cheese platter.

Guests have appreciated the curated selection, noting that the experience feels authentic thanks to the local supplier, Café de Paris. This adds a layer of authenticity and care, elevating what could otherwise be just a simple cruise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise perfectly suits adults seeking a relaxed, intimate outing with a cultural twist. It’s ideal for couples on a romantic evening, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a taste of Haarlem’s waterways with some good wine and cheese. It’s not suited for children or pets (except service animals), and the short duration means it’s best as a light, social experience rather than a full-blown tasting tour.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At around $40, the cruise offers good value considering the inclusion of drinks, snacks, and a scenic route. However, reviews suggest that if you’re expecting a large cheese selection or extensive tasting, the portion size might disappoint.
• Duration: 90 minutes — just enough time to unwind and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.
• Timing: Starting at 5:30 pm makes it a lovely early evening activity, especially as the sun begins to set over Haarlem.
• Group Size: Max 30 travelers, which keeps things personal and friendly.
• Accessibility: The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

What Could Be Better?

While many reviewers appreciated the experience, some noted that the cheese portion was “very skinny,” and the route involves sailing back and forth, which might feel repetitive. Also, for over $40 per person, some might expect a more substantial tasting experience or more diverse options.

Final Thoughts

The Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a charming, light-hearted way to experience Haarlem from a different perspective. It combines scenic waterways with quality wines and carefully selected cheeses, making it perfect for a mellow evening. While the portions are modest, the focus on atmosphere, authenticity, and good company shines through.

This tour works best for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, intimate group settings, and a touch of cultural charm. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic indulgence with a local flavor, this cruise is a delightful choice.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, guests under 18 are not allowed, so it’s tailored for adults looking for a peaceful, mature experience.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing a comfortable window for sightseeing and tasting without feeling overlong.

What is included in the price?
You get the canal cruise, three cheeses, three wines, a welcoming host and skipper, and onboard toilet facilities.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a specific dress code?
There’s no formal dress code, but it’s advisable to dress warmly if you’re doing the cruise in cooler months.

Are pets allowed on board?
Pets are generally not permitted, except service animals.

What makes the wine and cheese pairing special?
The cheeses and wines are carefully selected from a local supplier, Café de Paris, emphasizing quality and harmony to enhance your tasting experience.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The start location near public transportation makes it straightforward to access from central Haarlem.

In sum, the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise delivers a pleasant, authentic slice of the city’s waterways and culinary scene. It’s a wonderful pick for those wanting a relaxed, intimate evening with beautiful views, good drinks, and a touch of local flavor.