Amsterdam: Open Boat Canal Cruise (with Free Spritz Option)

Discover Amsterdam’s Canals on a Charming Open Boat Tour

For those looking to see Amsterdam from a fresh perspective, this Open Boat Canal Cruise offers an intimate and relaxed way to explore the city’s famous waterways. Priced at $27 per person and lasting around 1 hour, this tour provides a personalized experience aboard small open boats, allowing ample fresh air and unobstructed views. What truly sets this experience apart is the free Aperol Spritz available on departures from Leidseplein, adding a delightful touch to your sightseeing.

This tour is perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a casual yet insightful look at Amsterdam’s hidden corners. While it offers a relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy drinks on the water, it also provides local stories from your skipper, making it more than just a boat ride. Keep in mind, the tour is limited to weather-dependent days between March and October, and seating is limited, so early booking is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $27 per person for a 1-hour cruise
• Departure Points: From Damrak or Rijksmuseum, each offering different city perspectives
• Special Perk: Free Aperol Spritz on departures from Leidseplein
• Experience Type: Small open boats for open-air sightseeing and access to narrow, less-frequented waterways
• Included: Live guide and, if opted, drinks aboard such as beer, wine, or soft drinks
• Best For: Travelers seeking a relaxed outdoor activity with local insights, with limitations in accessibility and weather considerations

Specific Departure Points and Their Views

The tour departs from four convenient locations: Damrak 13-15, Damrak 22, Leidsebosje 2, and Stromma Canal Tours. Each starting point offers a slightly different view of Amsterdam’s bustling city center or its historic neighborhoods.

From Damrak, travelers quickly pass Amsterdam Centraal Station, offering a scenic view of the transport hub. The route also skirts past NEMO Science Museum and the Rembrandt House, providing glimpses of both modern architecture and historic landmarks.

Departures from Leidseplein include a special Spritz Bar where the free Aperol Spritz can be picked up before or after the cruise, adding a lively, social element. This location also offers a more vibrant, lively backdrop of the city’s nightlife scene, making it a popular pick for evening or late afternoon cruises.

The Route: Sights and Hidden Waterways

The cruise covers well-known sights like The Amstel River and the iconic Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), which are classic photo stops. The route also takes you through Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht, two of Amsterdam’s most historic canals.

What makes this tour special is the focus on less-accessible canals and narrow waterways. The small open boats can navigate into areas that larger cruise ships cannot, revealing hidden spots and quiet corners of the city. These quiet waterways often go unnoticed on larger tours, giving a sense of local life and secret corners of Amsterdam.

The Skipper: Local Guides with Storied Insights

Your skipper acts both as captain and storyteller, sharing insider stories and local insights as you pass under the city’s romantic bridges. The guides are generally engaging and knowledgeable, with the ability to bring Amsterdam’s history and quirks to life. One review highlights a friendly and helpful staff, including the option for an earlier departure and leaving luggage at the office.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention variations in guide enthusiasm, with one noting a guide who was less informative or energetic. The guides tend to be a highlight, making the journey more engaging and enriching.

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Drinks and Refreshments: Choice and Convenience

The “Drinks Option” allows you to sip beer, wine, or soft drinks while cruising, making the experience more social and relaxed. The free Aperol Spritz from Leidseplein departures adds a special touch, perfect for sunny days or sunset views.

For children or non-alcohol drinkers, non-alcoholic options are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy a refreshing beverage. The to-go cups make it easy to relax and socialize as you drift through Amsterdam’s scenic canals.

The Experience: Intimate and Uncrowded

Unlike larger boat tours, this small open boat experience offers a more personalized and comfortable setting. You’re exposed to the fresh air and canal-side views without the crowds, and the boat’s size allows entrance into narrower waterways that bigger vessels cannot access.

This makes the experience ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more leisurely pace or want to capture better photos of the city’s architecture and bridges. The outdoor seating enhances the feeling of freedom and closeness to the water.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Booking Tips

The meeting points are flexible, depending on the route you choose. The main options are Damrak and Rijksmuseum, each offering a different angle of the city. Since seats are limited, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for the Spritz option from Leidseplein.

The tour operates between March and October, with weather variations affecting availability. The 1-hour duration fits easily into a sightseeing schedule, and the live guide provides commentary in English and Dutch.

Comparing Similar Experiences and Options

This tour stands out for its small boat size, access to hidden waterways, and free Spritz from Leidseplein. It is comparable to other cruise options offering drinks, cheese, or longer durations, but its intimate setup and focus on local stories give it a unique charm.

Other similar experiences include luxury cruises, small-group tours, or longer sightseeing options, but this cruise balances affordability and personal touch with a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

Limitations and Considerations

While the small boats create a special experience, they are not accessible for wheelchair users. The tour is weather-dependent, so rain or strong winds may cause cancellations or rescheduling. The guides’ enthusiasm can vary, so some may find the commentary less engaging than others.

Lastly, seats are limited, and the experience is popular, so early booking is advisable to secure a preferred departure time, especially for the Leidseplein Spritz offer.

Final Thoughts on the Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise

This $27, 1-hour tour provides an excellent balance of scenic beauty, local storytelling, and relaxed ambiance. The small boats and access to quieter waterways make it stand out from larger cruise options, offering a more personal and immersive experience.

The free Aperol Spritz from Leidseplein is a memorable bonus, perfect for enjoying the sunny days or sunset views. While not suited for those with mobility needs or seeking a long, in-depth tour, this experience is ideal for anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic glimpse of Amsterdam with drinks and stories along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, non-alcoholic drinks are available, making it a family-friendly option despite the focus on adult beverages.

Where do the tours depart from?
Departures happen from Damrak 13-15, Damrak 22, Leidsebosje 2, and Stromma Canal Tours, with each offering different views of the city.

What about accessibility?
The small open boats are not accessible for wheelchair users, and weather conditions may affect operation.

How long in advance should I book?
Seats are limited, especially during peak months, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred departure and enjoy the free Spritz from Leidseplein.

What is included in the tour?
A live guide and outdoor seating are guaranteed, with drinks aboard if the Drinks Option is selected. The free Aperol Spritz is only available at Leidseplein departures.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

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