#1 Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise incl. Drinks & Biscuits

Discover the magic of Amsterdam’s Light Festival aboard the #1 Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise incl. Drinks & Biscuits. Priced at around €23 per person, this 75-minute journey takes place along the UNESCO World Heritage canals of North Holland. The tour includes live storytelling, an open bar with mulled wine, hot chocolate, prosecco, beer, wine, and soft drinks, plus Dutch biscuits to enjoy while soaking in the illuminated art installations.

This cruise stands out with its sustainable, 100% electric boats, which glide silently through the waterways, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly way to explore. It’s family-friendly, making it suitable for couples, groups, and families alike. While the open boat can be chilly, the onboard hot drinks and blankets help keep everyone cozy. The short duration of 75 minutes makes it ideal for those looking for a relaxed, but visually stunning experience.

Key Points

• 75-minute cruise through Amsterdam’s illuminated canals during the Light Festival
• Includes unlimited drinks: mulled wine, hot chocolate, prosecco, beer, and soft drinks
• Expert guides share stories behind the light art and its creators
• Open bar and Dutch biscuits enhance the relaxing atmosphere onboard
• Electric boats offer a silent and sustainable way to see the city’s lights
• Family-friendly and suitable for couples and groups seeking a cozy, festive experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Central Station in Amsterdam

The cruise departs from Stationsplein 17, just outside Amsterdam Central Station. Travelers are advised to follow the signs to the Amsterdam Light Festival Departure Flag, then look for Amsterdam Boat Trips staff in red jackets. The meeting point is easy to find with Google maps coordinates 52.37873458862305, 4.900608062744141.

The directions specify exiting Central Station at Stationsplein, and following tram stops 5, 13, and 17, which arrive nearby. The check-in process is straightforward, with staff ready to assist and collect tickets. The boat dock is well-organized, making for a smooth start to the experience.

The Route and Key Stops of the Cruise

The itinerary covers several iconic locations, beginning at Stationsplein 17 and passing by Amsterdam Centraal Station, the Holland Museum, Hortus Botanicus, and the HART Museum. The cruise then proceeds along Herengracht, a famous canal in the city center, and continues past the Haarlemmersluis before returning to the starting point.

Each stop showcases key neighborhoods and historical sites, all beautifully lit up for the festival. The boat’s route offers views of Amsterdam’s historic waterways, with reflections of the light installations shimmering on the water. This perspective provides a distinct experience compared to walking through the streets, highlighting the city’s charm from the water.

Experience on an Electric, Open-Air Boat

The boats used for this cruise are fully electric, ensuring a quiet, smooth ride free of engine noise and fumes. The open design offers excellent visibility of the illuminated artworks but also means guests should dress warmly, especially during colder months.

The seating is spacious and designed for comfort, with blankets available to keep guests cozy. Since there is no onboard toilet, visitors should plan accordingly before departure. The crew is attentive, providing warm drinks and biscuits, which add a touch of hospitality to the voyage.

Guides and Storytelling Style

The live guides are a highlight, sharing stories behind the artworks and the festival’s theme of “Legacy”. They explain the meaning of the installations, the artists behind them, and the significance of certain locations along the route.

The guides’ knowledgeable storytelling enhances the experience, making it more engaging and informative. They create a friendly atmosphere, making the 75-minute journey feel both relaxing and educational.

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Drinks and Snacks Included on Board

With unlimited drinks included, guests can enjoy a variety of hot and cold beverages. The hot chocolate and mulled wine are particularly popular for keeping warm, while prosecco, beer, and wine add a festive touch. Soft drinks are also available for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.

The cruise offers Dutch biscuits as a sweet treat, complementing the drinks and adding a traditional flavor to the experience. The open bar setup encourages a casual and social ambiance as guests relax and admire the lights.

The Festival Theme of “Legacy”

This year’s edition, “Legacy”, explores what we leave behind—whether historical, environmental, or personal. The artworks reflect on traces passed down through generations, memories, and the impact of human activity.

The light installations are designed to provoke reflection on what remains of us and the stories we carry forward. The theme adds depth to the visual spectacle, making the experience more meaningful for those interested in the concepts behind the art.

Suitability and Accessibility of the Cruise

This family-friendly cruise welcomes guests of all ages. It is especially suited for those who enjoy relaxed, scenic tours with engaging storytelling. However, the open boat configuration and lack of wheelchair accessibility mean it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility limitations.

Guests should dress warmly, as the outdoor nature of the boat exposes them to the elements. Children are welcome, but strollers cannot be brought onboard or left at the dock due to lack of supervision.

Practical Tips for Guests

Visitors should visit the bathroom before boarding, as the boat has no toilet onboard. The tour runs rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for cold or damp weather is recommended.

Since the stair step into the boat can be sizable, assistive personnel are available to help, but guests with significant mobility challenges may find the experience difficult. The non-smoking policy is strictly enforced onboard.

Comparing Similar Experiences

This cruise is one of several options for experiencing the Amsterdam Light Festival. Other tours may offer hot snacks and unlimited drinks, or luxury options with live commentary. The provided links show a variety of experiences, but this particular cruise emphasizes sustainability, live storytelling, and a cozy atmosphere.

Experienced travelers often highlight the knowledge of guides and the beautiful reflections on the water as standout features. Some reviews mention that artworks may be minimal, but the overall atmosphere and storytelling compensate for that.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This 75-minute cruise is perfect for families with children, couples seeking a romantic experience, and groups of friends celebrating the season. Those who appreciate art, storytelling, and scenic views from the water will find the experience particularly rewarding.

It suits travelers who want a relaxed, festive atmosphere with unlimited drinks and the chance to learn about Amsterdam’s cultural scene during the Light Festival. However, guests should be prepared for outdoor weather and limited accessibility.

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Drinks and Biscuits: Final Thoughts

The #1 Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic canal views, engaging guides, and festive drinks in a sustainable electric boat. The short duration makes it accessible without feeling rushed, and the live storytelling brings the light installations to life.

While some may find the artworks understated or the open boat chilly, these are balanced by the warm drinks and friendly crew. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting to experience the city’s winter illuminations in a comfortable, cozy setting.

This tour provides a unique water-based perspective of Amsterdam’s illuminated waterways and makes for a memorable holiday activity. Book in advance and prepare to enjoy a magical evening in this festive city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes a 75-minute electric canal cruise, live storytelling, and unlimited drinks such as mulled wine, hot chocolate, prosecco, beer, and soft drinks, along with Dutch biscuits.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Stationsplein 17 outside Amsterdam Central Station. Look for Amsterdam Boat Trips staff in red jackets and the Amsterdam Light Festival Departure Flag.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
The cruise is not wheelchair accessible and strollers cannot be brought onboard or left at the dock. Guests should be prepared for a large step into the boat.

What should I wear?
Guests should dress warmly because the boat is open-air, and it can be cold during winter months. It’s advisable to wear warm coats, hats, and gloves.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows flexibility if plans change.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the cruise takes place regardless of weather, so dressing appropriately is recommended.

Are food options available onboard?
The tour provides Dutch biscuits and hot drinks, but no additional food. The focus is on drinks and the visual spectacle.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 75 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to view the illuminated cityscape.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly, but strollers are not permitted onboard.

What is the theme of this year’s Light Festival?
The “Legacy” theme explores what we leave behind, reflecting on historical, environmental, and personal traces.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, the guides speak Dutch and English, ensuring clear commentary for most guests.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby