Amsterdam: New Year’s Eve Champagne & Tapas Cruise

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Style on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise

The Amsterdam: New Year’s Eve Champagne & Tapas Cruise offers a unique way to ring in the new year. Departing from Amsterdam Central Station, this 1.5-hour cruise takes you through the iconic waterways of the city. Priced with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, plus a selection of tapas, this experience is perfect for those seeking a festive and intimate celebration on the water.

With a small group limit of 12 passengers and guided by a top-rated provider, Eco Boats Amsterdam, this cruise combines scenic views with lively entertainment. The durability and charm of the electric eco boat ensure a comfortable, eco-friendly ride, even in winter. This tour is especially appealing for guests who want a more exclusive experience and enjoy stunning canal views illuminated by the Light Festival.

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What Makes the New Year’s Eve Champagne & Tapas Cruise Unique

This cruise stands out as an original way to start your New Year’s celebrations. Unlike typical parties, it offers the luxury of champagne, unlimited drinks, and delicious tapas all included in the ticket price. The small group size ensures a more personalized atmosphere, perfect for an intimate celebration or a special occasion.

The timing of the cruise coincides with Amsterdam’s Light Festival, when illuminated artworks shimmer along the canals. This creates an enchanting backdrop for welcoming the new year. The cruise departs in front of Amsterdam Central Station, making it convenient to access and easy to incorporate into your New Year’s plans.

The Scenic Route through Amsterdam’s Historic Canals

During daytime departures, the cruise passes Amsterdam’s vibrant neighborhoods and historic sites, giving a glimpse of the city’s lively streets and iconic buildings. The evening cruise transforms the experience with the Light Festival’s luminous artworks, adding a magical glow to the waterway views.

The skipper, who speaks both English and Dutch, guides guests through the highlights of Amsterdam while explaining details about the artworks and city landmarks. The illuminations along the canals create a perfect festive atmosphere, making this cruise an ideal prelude to New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Departure Details and Meeting Point at Amsterdam Central Station

The cruise departs from Stationsplein 18, on the right staircase near the tram stop. Look for the navy blue or moss green boats from Eco Boats Amsterdam or the white boat called Barbarella. The staff wears navy blue shirts or jackets, making it easy to identify.

Guests are advised to dress warmly, as the boat is partially open and winter weather can be cold and wet. The company offers free blankets to keep comfortable. Travelers struggling to find the meeting point can consult the location map or ask nearby boat crews for guidance.

The Experience on a 90-Minute Eco-Friendly Cruise

The 90-minute cruise takes place on a modern electric boat, providing a quiet and eco-friendly ride. The cruise may last longer in case of water traffic, but the standard duration is 1.5 hours.

Guests enjoy a glass of Champagne at the start, followed by unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks throughout the cruise, plus the included tapas. The food may contain traces of nuts, so those with allergies should take care. The cruise is not suitable for children under 18 or wheelchair users.

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Themed Artworks and Light Festival Celebrations

This tour is an official partner of the Amsterdam Light Festival 2025/2026, whose theme is Legacy. The artworks explore what people preserve and leave behind, presented by international artists. The illuminated installations along the canals make for a stunning visual display, especially in the evening.

Guests get to enjoy this spectacle while sipping drinks and nibbling tapas, making the cruise a visual feast and a festive celebration rolled into one.

Practical Tips for a Comfortable Cruise

Since the cruise happens during winter, dressing warmly is essential. The boat is partially open, so layers, hats, and gloves are recommended. The company provides free blankets if needed. The cruise is a relaxed experience, with no long walking or physical demands, but guests should be prepared for possible crowd or traffic delays on the water.

The group size of maximum 12 passengers makes for a more intimate and personalized experience, but also means early booking is advised if you want to secure a spot.

Accessibility and Multilingual Support

While not suitable for wheelchair users, the skipper can answer questions in Dutch and English. For additional guidance, a free digital booklet is available, accessible via QR code, with explanations in Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, German, French, and Italian. This helps non-English speakers enjoy the experience without missing key details.

The Perfect Choice for a Private and Festive Celebration

This cruise combines luxury, scenic views, and a festive atmosphere perfect for celebrating New Year’s Eve. The small group size and all-inclusive drinks and tapas provide a comfortable and luxurious setting. Guests looking for an intimate, stylish, and memorable way to welcome the new year will find this tour particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Amsterdam New Year’s Eve Cruise

The Amsterdam: New Year’s Eve Champagne & Tapas Cruise offers an elegant and scenic way to celebrate the start of a new year. The combination of illuminated artworks, delicious food, and unlimited drinks creates a festive ambiance that stands apart from typical celebrations. The small group format and eco-friendly boat add to the personalized and sustainable experience.

While it’s not suitable for children under 18 or those with mobility challenges, it’s an excellent choice for adults seeking a sophisticated, intimate celebration. The timing during the Light Festival and the stunning canal views make this cruise a highlight of New Year’s plans in Amsterdam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, a free digital booklet with explanations in multiple languages is available, making it accessible for Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, German, French, and Italian speakers.

How long does the cruise last?
The standard duration is 90 minutes, but it may be longer if there are water traffic delays.

What should I wear for the cruise?
Warm clothing is essential due to winter weather, and free blankets are provided for added comfort.

Can children join the cruise?
No, the cruise is not suitable for children under 18.

Where exactly do I meet the boat?
At Stationsplein 18, on the right staircase near the tram stop, in front of Amsterdam Central Station.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, the ticket includes a glass of Champagne, unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, plus a selection of tapas.

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