Beautiful (Open Boat) Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Open Bar included

Discover the Open Boat Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks in Amsterdam

The Beautiful (Open Boat) Canal Cruise in Amsterdam offers a refreshing way to see the city’s iconic waterways. Priced at $34.70 per person, this 1-hour tour combines scenic views with a lively social atmosphere. It departs from Stationsplein 24, right in front of Central Station, and is suitable for most travelers, with most booking 37 days in advance.

What makes this cruise stand out is the open bar, which includes unlimited Heineken beer, wine, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy Amsterdam’s sights while sipping their favorite drinks. The tour’s affordability, combined with the friendly guide and electric boat technology, creates a relaxed yet informative experience.

While the itinerary covers many of the city’s most famous sights, including the Red Light District and Herengracht, it’s important to note that the route can vary due to weather and traffic. This flexibility, along with the small group size of up to 35 people, ensures a more personalized experience. This cruise is especially ideal for visitors who want a quick, scenic overview of Amsterdam’s waterways without heavy crowds.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $34.70 per person for a scenic, one-hour cruise
• Unlimited drinks: Heineken, wine, coffee, tea, and soft drinks included
• Departure from Central Station at Stationsplein 24
• Electric boats ensure eco-friendly navigation through the canals
• Flexible route depending on weather and traffic conditions
• Tour suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and most participation levels

Starting Point at Central Station in Amsterdam

This cruise begins in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station, a central and convenient location easily accessible by public transportation. The friendly crew welcomes guests here to start the relaxed journey through the city’s historic canals. The electric boat used is modern and environmentally friendly, providing a smooth ride that’s comfortable for all.

The meeting point is structured for punctuality, so arriving at least 10 minutes early is advised to ensure smooth check-in. The tour ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward for travelers planning their day.

Scenic Sights Along Amsterdam’s Canals from the Water

During the hour-long cruise, the boat glides past several well-known landmarks. You’ll see the Weeping Tower, famously associated with women waving goodbye to their sailors, and the Montelbaanstoren, an historic defense tower. The Herengracht, or Gentlemen’s Canal, is part of the Golden Bend, showcasing some of the most elegant canal-side buildings.

The Magere Brug, or Skinny Bridge, is a romantic, nationally recognized monument that crosses the Amstel River. The Red Light District also features in the route, offering a unique view of this famous Amsterdam area, including the daycare within it. Other notable sights include the Museum of the Canals, which shares the history of Amsterdam’s waterways, and the Munt Tower, where Dutch coins were once produced.

Iconic Landmarks and Unique Stops

This tour makes sure to include a variety of key sights. The Museum of the Canals provides context to the waterways, while the Museumhuis Bartolotti adds cultural depth. The Waterlooplein Market, a bustling flea market, and the NEMO Science Museum for families are also visible from the water.

The Xtracold Icebar can be seen along the route, offering a chance to experience a chilly beer in a North Pole-like environment. The Statue Memorial to Queen Wilhelmina on her horse is another historic landmark. Plus, the Scheepvaartmuseum, or Nautical Museum, details Dutch sailing adventures, adding maritime flavor to the cruise.

Enjoying the Open Bar and Atmosphere

One of the biggest draws of this cruise is the unlimited drinks. Guests can enjoy Heineken beer, wines, and soft drinks throughout the journey. Coffee and tea are also available, perfect for warming up or relaxing. The friendly crew keeps the mood lively and engaging, and some reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about the city.

The small boat size allows for a cozy atmosphere, and the open-air configuration offers unobstructed views of the canals. If the weather is chilly, blankets are provided to keep everyone comfortable, and in cases of bad weather, the boat may be covered or you’ll be offered umbrellas or ponchos.

Route Variability and Weather Considerations

The exact route may vary depending on traffic, construction, or weather conditions. The tour operates in most weather, with contingency plans like umbrellas or covered boats if necessary. If the weather is very poor, the operator might cancel the tour, offering a full refund or reschedule.

This flexibility helps ensure a positive experience, no matter the conditions. Travelers should be aware that the itinerary is not fixed, and some stops can change. The route aims to highlight the most scenic and culturally significant parts of Amsterdam’s canals.

The Experience and Guest Interactions

According to reviews, the guides and captain are typically friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable. They often respond to questions and even make unplanned detours, enhancing the experience. The informative narration helps visitors learn about Amsterdam’s history and architecture while enjoying the scenic views.

Guests also appreciate the relaxed pace, making it easy to take photos and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters a more intimate environment, encouraging interaction and a festive atmosphere.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with service animals allowed and most participation levels accommodated. The electric boat is eco-friendly, and the tour is suitable for those with mobility considerations, though it’s best to check specific access requirements if needed.

The duration of 1 hour is ideal for a quick sightseeing session, fitting well into a busy itinerary. Since food and bites are not included, travelers looking for a full meal might want to plan accordingly. Transportation to and from attractions is not included, but the meeting point is in a central location.

Value and Customer Feedback

Priced at just $34.70, this cruise offers excellent value considering the unlimited drinks, scenic views, and informative guide. Many reviews highlight the good price for the experience and the friendly staff. Guests consistently praise the stunning canal views from the boat and the relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Some reviews mention a cramped boat or less attractive decor compared to other options, but these are minor compared to the overall positive experience. The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, allowing bookings to be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This open-bar canal cruise is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxed, social experience. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate scenic views, local stories, and a casual drinking environment. The small boat size creates an intimate setting, so it’s ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized experience.

It’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Amsterdam’s canals without heavy crowds or complicated logistics. The tour’s focus on sightseeing, drinks, and friendly guides makes it a memorable, enjoyable activity.

The Beautiful (Open Boat) Canal Cruise in Amsterdam offers a cost-effective, scenic, and social experience. With unlimited drinks, a friendly guide, and a route that covers the city’s most famous landmarks, it provides a great overview of Amsterdam’s waterways. The eco-friendly electric boat adds an environmentally conscious touch to this enjoyable one-hour journey.

While the route can vary slightly and the boat size may be a bit cozy, the overall relaxed atmosphere, engaging storytelling, and stunning views make this a worthwhile activity. It’s especially suited for those who want a fun, laid-back introduction to the city’s canals, with the added bonus of unlimited drinks to keep the mood lively. This tour balances value, comfort, and local insight, making it a solid choice for many visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children need to be accompanied by an adult, but the tour has a minimum drinking age of 18. It’s more geared toward adults, especially due to the alcohol included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing and perhaps a jacket are advisable, especially in cooler weather. The tour provides blankets if it’s chilly.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the electric boat design suggests a certain level of ease, but it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific needs.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

How long before departure should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather, umbrellas or ponchos are provided, or the tour might operate in a covered boat. If canceled by the operator, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and bites are not included, but drinks are unlimited.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see Herengracht, Magere Brug, Weeping Tower, Red Light District, Museum of the Canals, and Munt Tower, among others.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at the same meeting point in front of Central Station.

Is the route fixed?
No, the itinerary can vary depending on traffic, weather, or construction, but the main sights are typically included.