Join Our Magical Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Drinks!

Discover the Magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise for $32.93

The Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise offers an enchanting way to see the city’s famous canals illuminated during the winter months. Priced at $32.93 per person, this 90-minute electric boat tour provides a cozy, eco-friendly way to enjoy the festival from November 27, 2025, to January 17, 2026. The tour departs from Badhuisweg 4, Amsterdam, and takes visitors along the IJ, Amstel, and the historic canals, showcasing nearly 30 captivating light artworks.

This cruise is designed for those seeking a relaxing evening with live English commentary that shares insights about the festival’s light installations. The modern, luxurious ship—the Stan Huygens—is fully electric, ensuring a quiet, environmentally friendly journey. While the tour offers drinks on board, note that hot drinks are not included. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with a group size limited to 50 people.

Key Points

• Price of $32.93 per person for a 90-minute experience
• Electric, eco-friendly boat with luxurious interiors
• Nearly 30 light artworks along the canals and waterways
• Live commentary in English enhances understanding of the festival
• Drinks available on board, but no hot beverages included
• Meeting point at Badhuisweg 4, Amsterdam, with the tour ending at the same location

Starting Point at Badhuisweg 4, Amsterdam

This electric boat tour begins at Badhuisweg 4 in Amsterdam, easily accessible and near public transportation options. The Stan Huygens boat is a sleek, luxurious vessel with a semi-circular leather sofa setup, a full bar and kitchen, and a wooden floor that adds to the cozy ambiance. The boat’s adjustable lighting can change colors, enhancing the festive atmosphere during the cruise.

The meeting point is about a 20-minute Uber ride from downtown Amsterdam, which is a consideration for those staying centrally. The group size is capped at 50 guests, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.

The Route: IJ, Amstel, and Amsterdam’s Canals

The cruise takes place primarily on the IJ river, moving towards the Amstel and the well-known canals of Amsterdam. The boat sails from the north side of the city, offering viewers stunning perspectives of historic bridges and buildings lit up for the festival. The sail lasts approximately 75 minutes, providing ample time for sightseeing and appreciating the nearly 30 light artworks.

Each artwork is carefully curated to tell a story or add to the festival’s winter wonderland theme. The route’s focus on illuminated waterways means guests enjoy breathtaking views that highlight the city’s architectural beauty under festive lighting.

What’s Included in the Tour

This official Amsterdam Light Festival partner includes live commentary in English, which offers interesting background stories about the light artworks and the festival’s history. An audio guide option is also available, enhancing the experience with detailed explanations.

While drinks are available for purchase on board, it’s important to note that hot drinks such as tea or coffee are not included. Beers, water, and other beverages can be enjoyed during the cruise, adding to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

The Experience on the Stan Huygens

The Stan Huygens boat is a key highlight. As a former favorite of Freddie Heineken, this vessel is known for its luxurious interior and sleek design. The semi-circular leather sofas create a cozy setting, and the full bar and kitchen allow for a variety of drinks, though hot beverages are not served.

The boat’s full LED lighting system can change colors, allowing the crew to tailor the atmosphere to match the holiday spirit. Being 100% electric, the boat operates silently and sustainably, adding an eco-conscious touch to this festive activity.

The Light Artworks: A Visual Celebration

The tour features nearly 30 light installations, transforming Amsterdam’s waterways into a winter wonderland. Each artwork aims to tell a story, from playful waving hands to more abstract designs. However, reviews indicate that some light displays, such as the waving hand, may feel outdated or silly to some viewers, potentially lessening the visual impact for those expecting cutting-edge displays.

Despite this, the stunning illumination of historic bridges and buildings provides a beautiful backdrop, making the cruise a fantastic opportunity for photography and enjoying Amsterdam’s night-time scenery.

Pacing and Crowd Considerations

The 90-minute cruise offers a leisurely pace, allowing guests to soak in the views without feeling rushed. The group size of up to 50 people helps maintain a comfortable environment, though noise levels can vary, especially when families with small children are onboard, which can sometimes make narration difficult to hear.

Guests should also consider that the dock location is a bit away from downtown, requiring additional travel time if staying centrally. The timing of the cruise during the festival ensures that visitors experience the city’s transformation into a holiday spectacle.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Limitations

The tour has a moderate rating of 3.5/5 based on 3 reviews. The most praised aspect is the beautiful lighting and the cozy atmosphere onboard. The luxurious interior of the boat and the ability to enjoy drinks contribute positively to the experience.

However, some limitations appear in reviews: noise from families with small children can interfere with the narration, and some light artworks are considered outdated or silly. Plus, the dock’s distance from the city center may be a minor inconvenience for some.

The Sum Up: A Festive Canal Cruise with a Relaxed Vibe

The Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise on the Stan Huygens boat offers a comfortable, eco-friendly way to enjoy Amsterdam’s illuminated canals. For $32.93, the 90-minute journey provides a festive atmosphere, stunning views of nearly 30 light artworks, and engaging commentary in English.

While hot drinks are not included, the availability of drinks on board and the luxurious interior make this tour appealing for those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience. It suits visitors who appreciate beautiful cityscapes at night and want to learn more about the festival’s art.

Potential limitations include crowding from families and the outdated nature of some light displays. The distant dock location might require extra planning for guests staying centrally. This cruise is best for those looking for an accessible, pleasant way to enjoy Amsterdam’s winter lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy the lights and scenery.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Badhuisweg 4 in Amsterdam, which is near public transportation but requires about a 20-minute Uber ride from downtown.

Are drinks included?
Drinks are available on board for purchase, but hot drinks like tea or coffee are not included.

What is the boat like?
The Stan Huygens is a luxurious, modern vessel with semi-circular leather sofas, a full bar, and adjustable lighting that can change colors to suit the mood.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but noise from small children may affect the experience, particularly the narration.

What artworks will I see?
You will see nearly 30 light artworks along the waterways, including both abstract and playful installations, set against beautifully lit bridges and buildings.

Is the cruise environmentally friendly?
Yes, the electric engine makes the boat silent and eco-friendly, aligning with sustainable tourism practices.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the tour start, allowing for flexible planning.

What languages are brochures available in?
Guests receive brochures in Italian, Spanish, German, French, and Dutch, enhancing understanding for international visitors.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those wanting a relaxing, scenic experience with beautiful lighting displays and informative commentary—keeping in mind the possible limitations with crowd noise and some outdated light artworks.