Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour, All Inclusive

Discover the Charm of Amsterdam’s Hidden Canals on an All-Inclusive Boat Tour

The Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour, All Inclusive offers a cozy, engaging way to explore Amsterdam’s lesser-known waterways. For $34 per person, this 60-minute cruise takes visitors through narrow, secret canals accessible only by small boats. The experience combines stunning scenic views with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, along with authentic Dutch cheese, all on a silent, eco-friendly electric vessel.

This tour is designed to suit those seeking a relaxed, intimate exploration of Amsterdam’s charming corners, accompanied by local stories from a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially appealing for solo travelers, couples, and small groups who appreciate a personal touch and a taste of Dutch culture. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible and lacks onboard toilets, its affordable price and friendly atmosphere make it a standout choice.

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Key Points

• Price: $34 per person for a 1-hour all-inclusive canal cruise
• Includes: Unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and real Dutch cheese as snacks
• Boat: A 100% electric, eco-friendly vessel for silent cruising
• Guide: A live, engaging storyteller sharing local stories and history
• Stops: Takes you through hidden canals and notable landmarks like Oude Kerk, Herengracht, and Skinny Bridge
• Meeting Point: At Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, next to the Bulldog Hotel

Setting out on a 60-Minute Journey Through Amsterdam’s Secret Canals

The tour departs from Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, next to the Bulldog Hotel. The skipper and live guide lead the small group aboard a quiet electric boat, designed to navigate the narrowest waterways. The one-hour cruise offers a perfect snapshot of Amsterdam’s hidden corners, passing historic buildings, charming bridges, and less-traveled spots unreachable by larger boats.

Throughout the trip, the guides share captivating stories about the city’s past, architecture, and cultural quirks. The laid-back atmosphere makes this cruise suitable for all ages, solo travelers, couples, or families with kids. The unobstructed panoramic views and relaxed pace ensure an enjoyable experience.

Exploring Amsterdam’s Lesser-Known Waterways

This small-group tour excels at showcasing Amsterdam’s quiet, secret canals. These hidden waterways are only accessible by small boats, providing a different perspective from the usual tourist routes. Passengers see historic buildings like NEMO Science Museum, the impressive Skinny Bridge, and Munttoren from a fresh angle, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in the scenery.

The itinerary includes sights like Oude Kerk, Amsterdam Centraal Station, Eastern Docklands, and Herengracht. The route also encompasses Stopera, Oudezijds Voorburgwal, and the Grimburgwal, giving a comprehensive look at Amsterdam’s diverse neighborhoods.

The All-Inclusive Drink Experience on the Water

The included drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—are unlimited during the cruise, allowing guests to relax and socialize. For those wanting a bit more flair, there’s the option to add a premium cocktail with the VIP package, which also includes a specialized drink to elevate the experience.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the real Dutch cheese served as a snack during the cruise. While only a small cheese plate, it complements the drinks and adds a taste of local flavor. The friendly guides ensure everyone feels comfortable, and pets are welcome onboard, making it a family-friendly outing.

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The Guides and the Narrative Style

The live guide on this tour is known for sharing fun and personal stories about Amsterdam’s history, architecture, and local secrets. Reviews highlight guides like Olaf, Ties, André, and Alexandra as enthusiastic and attentive. Their storytelling makes the journey more engaging, and they’re happy to answer questions and keep the atmosphere lively.

While the boat is equipped with cushioned seats for comfort, some comments suggest that additional microphones could improve audibility during storytelling, especially in windy conditions. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness significantly enhance the tour.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point is conveniently located at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, next to the Bulldog Hotel, with staff wearing red Amsterdam Boat Trips shirts/jackets for easy identification. The boat features a fairly big step to board, with stewards available to assist, so some physical mobility may be required.

Not wheelchair accessible, and no onboard toilet are important considerations. The tour runs rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather, especially if rain is forecasted.

The Route: From the Old Town to the Cultural Landmarks

Starting at Oudezijds Voorburgwal, the cruise takes viewers past Oude Kerk, one of Amsterdam’s oldest churches, and Amsterdam Centraal Station, the city’s main transport hub. The route then heads to the Eastern Docklands, showcasing modern architecture alongside historic sights, and continues to NEMO Science Museum and Het Scheepvaartmuseum.

Other notable stops include Stopera, Herengracht, and the Skinny Bridge, which is a highlight for its picturesque design. The Munttoren and Grimburgwal add to the scene’s charm, providing a well-rounded tour of Amsterdam’s diverse waterways and neighborhoods.

Review Highlights and What Sets This Tour Apart

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 28 reviews, this tour is praised for friendly, knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and great value for the price. Reviews mention Olaf, Ties, André, and Alexandra as attentive storytellers who make the experience entertaining and informative.

Guests particularly appreciate the quality of the drinks and cheese, considering the experience relaxed and fun. The small boat size offers a more personal atmosphere, and the silent electric engine provides a peaceful cruise without noise or fumes.

Some constructive feedback points to audio clarity issues and the lack of wheelchair accessibility, but these do not significantly detract from the overall positive experience.

Why This Amsterdam Boat Tour is Worth Considering

For a budget-friendly price of just $34, this short, intimate cruise delivers a quality blend of scenic views, local stories, and refreshing drinks. Its focus on hidden canals and less-touristy sights makes it ideal for those wanting to explore Amsterdam from a different perspective.

The all-inclusive drinks and cheese add to the feeling of a relaxed social outing, and the eco-friendly electric boat ensures a quiet, smooth ride. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a personalized, less crowded experience and enjoy learning about local history in a laid-back setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts 60 minutes, offering a compact yet comprehensive view of Amsterdam’s secret waterways.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes a 1-hour boat ride, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, real Dutch cheese, and a live guide.

Can pets join the tour?
Yes, pets are welcome onboard, making it a good option for those traveling with furry friends.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the boarding step and boat design.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, next to the Bulldog Hotel.

What should I wear?
Guests should dress according to the weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Can I purchase extra drinks or upgrades?
The standard ticket includes three drinks, with the option to add a premium cocktail via the VIP package. However, cheese is only a snack, and larger quantities or additional cheese require extra payment.

Is there a restroom onboard?
No, the boat does not have a toilet.

What is the guide’s language?
The tour is offered in Dutch and English, with live narration.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed environment and pet-friendly policy make it suitable for families with children.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

This Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour offers an engaging, affordable way to see Amsterdam’s lesser-known canals, with a personal touch, refreshing drinks, and a taste of Dutch cheese that makes it a memorable part of any visit.

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