Amsterdam: Guided Open Boat Canal Cruise Including 1 Drink

Exploring Amsterdam’s historic canals becomes effortless and enjoyable with the guided open boat canal cruise offered by Mokumboot. Priced at only $22.76 per person and lasting around one hour, this tour provides unobstructed views of the city’s most iconic sights from an electric, silent boat. The tour includes a local guide who shares insightful commentary on Amsterdam’s rich history, architecture, and culture, making it a perfect option for visitors eager to see the city without the fatigue of walking. An added bonus is the on-board bar, where you can purchase drinks to sip while taking in the scenery.

While reviews highlight excellent guides and beautiful boats, some note the importance of early booking—the tour is often booked 13 days in advance—and that group sizes can occasionally be larger than ideal. This tour offers great value for a quick, rundown of Amsterdam’s canals, especially for those looking for a relaxed yet informative experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $22.76 per person for a one-hour guided canal cruise
• Includes a live guide providing detailed explanations about Amsterdam’s sights and history
• Unobstructed views from an open electric boat with quiet operation
• Optional drinks for purchase available onboard to enjoy during the cruise
• Meeting point at Stationsplein 28 in central Amsterdam
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

The Unique Appeal of the Open Boat Design

This guided canal cruise stands out because it is conducted on an open boat that offers clear, panoramic views of Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage Site canals. Unlike enclosed boats, this setup allows unobstructed sightlines of Amstel River, seven bridges, Herengracht, Leliegracht, Keizersgracht, and many other landmarks. The boat is fully electric, ensuring a quiet and eco-friendly ride that doesn’t disturb the ambiance or the nearby historic sites.

The electric boat technology also minimizes noise, letting the live guide’s commentary be heard more clearly. This tour is ideal for photographers or those wanting to capture Amsterdam’s scenic beauty without the distraction of motor noise or obstructed views.

Starting Point at Stationsplein and Nearby Landmarks

The tour begins at Stationsplein 28, a central location in Amsterdam, close to public transportation options. From here, the boat departs in front of several notable sites, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. The meeting point is easy to find, and the proximity to other attractions makes it convenient for a seamless start to a day exploring the city.

The duration of approximately one hour ensures a compact yet comprehensive experience, perfect for those with limited time or wanting a quick overview of Amsterdam’s canal belt.

The Full Itinerary: Diverse Stops Along Amsterdam’s Historic Waterways

The itinerary features a series of notable stops and sights along the canal route. The tour begins in front of architect Pierre Cuypers’ masterpieces, including the Rijksmuseum. It then passes Saint Nicolas Church, a symbol of Amsterdam’s maritime history, and the last remaining tower of the city defenses, built in 1487.

Other highlights include visits to NEMO Science Museum, with its hands-on exhibits, and Het Scheepvaartmuseum, which holds the second-largest maritime collection globally. The cruise also passes luxury hotels that once housed wealthy shipping companies, and the 1516 watchtower, affectionately called “Silly Jake.”

The route continues past famous pubs, diamant factories, Jewish history museums, and the former home of Rembrandt van Rijn. The seven bridges visible from Reguliersgracht are particularly stunning at night when illuminated, offering a magical view.

Key Landmarks and Stops Along the Route

Each stop along the tour offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s diverse history and culture. The Old Jewish Quarter features the Portuguese Synagogue and a museum detailing Jewish life in the city. The Herengracht, one of the earliest canals, was initially a defensive waterway before becoming lined with merchant’s houses.

The Willet-Holthuysen House provides an 18th-century glimpse into aristocratic life, with fully furnished period rooms. The Grachtenmuseum focuses on canal history, showing how the 17th-century canal belt was constructed and its significance to Amsterdam’s development.

Other notable stops include the Royal Theater Carré, a historic venue that hosts concerts and performances, and the Westerkerk, built in 1631 with its famous tower. The Homomonument and Brouwersgracht add social and cultural layers to the city’s story.

The Guide: Expert Commentary and Personalities

The live guide on this tour provides engaging and detailed explanations about each site. Review highlights praise knowledgeable guides who explain with clarity and share stories about Amsterdam’s history, architecture, and culture.

Some reviews note that guides speak frequently and clearly, enhancing the experience. However, there is a mention of one guide who was on his phone and did not use a microphone, indicating that guide quality can vary. The passion and knowledge of the guides are highly appreciated.

Practical Aspects: Booking, Accessibility, and Onboard Comfort

Booking tends to be done around 13 days in advance, reflecting high demand. The meeting point is accessible near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors arriving in Amsterdam.

The boat is equipped with blankets and ponchos or umbrellas, so you stay comfortable regardless of weather. The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which is manageable for a personalized experience.

Life jackets for children aged 0-6 are provided free of charge, emphasizing safety. Guests can also purchase snacks and drinks onboard, with a bar available for buying beverages.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews mention larger group sizes that can lead to crowded conditions and difficulty hearing the guide, especially at the wrong end of the boat. It’s advisable to arrive early or prefer a quieter spot on the boat if possible.

The tour cannot be canceled less than 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so good weather is important for the experience. In case of bad weather, the tour provider offers rescheduling or full refunds.

Why This Tour Fits Certain Visitors Best

This guided open boat canal cruise is perfect for those who want an affordable, quick overview of Amsterdam’s most famous sights. It’s suitable for first-time visitors or those with limited time, offering a relaxing way to see the city without physical exertion.

Nature lovers, photography fans, and history enthusiasts will appreciate the unobstructed views, expert commentary, and variety of landmarks along the route. The on-board drinks are a nice addition, making it a casual yet informative experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, life jackets are provided free of charge for children aged 0-6, making it suitable for families. The tour runs for about one hour, which is manageable for young children.

Can I purchase drinks during the cruise?
Yes, a bar onboard offers drinks for sale. You can enjoy a beverage while taking in the scenic views of Amsterdam’s canals.

What should I do if the weather forecast is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s best to check the weather forecast before booking.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The start location at Stationsplein 28 is near public transportation, making it easy to reach via metro, tram, or bus. The tour also ends at the same point, ensuring a convenient experience.

What makes this tour different from other canal cruises?
The open boat design provides better views and photo opportunities compared to enclosed boats. The expert live guide adds value with detailed commentary, and the electric motor ensures a quiet, eco-friendly ride.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum number of travelers is 35, which helps maintain a personalized atmosphere and easier interaction with the guide.

This guided open boat canal cruise by Mokumboot offers a great way to see Amsterdam’s iconic waterways with expert commentary and unobstructed views. It suits visitors seeking an affordable, relaxed, and informative experience and is especially praised for its friendly guides and beautiful boats.