Classic Salonboat Tour in Amsterdam Including Cheese and Wine

Explore Amsterdam’s Canals on a Classic Salonboat with Cheese and Wine

For just $39.42 per person, this 1-hour salonboat tour in Amsterdam offers a charming way to see the city’s iconic waterways. Operated by Captain Jack Amsterdam, the tour provides a relaxing, guided cruise through the famous canal ring, with the added delight of Dutch cheese and unlimited drinks. This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of sightseeing, cultural insights, and tasty local treats in a compact, enjoyable outing.

The tour departs from Westermarkt 20 and features attractive vintage boats with large, clear windows, ensuring good views even in less favorable weather. While the group size is capped at 25, the friendly guides make sure everyone is engaged and entertained, making this a popular choice well in advance, often booked 42 days ahead.

Key Points

• 1-hour guided canal cruise showcasing Amsterdam’s most famous waterways and landmarks
• Includes Dutch cheese tasting and unlimited wine and beer
• Passes by major sites like Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Koninklijk Theater Carré
• Operated by Captain Jack Amsterdam, known for knowledgeable hosts and friendly service
• Free cancellation, with options to reschedule or get a full refund with at least 24 hours’ notice
• Suitable for most travelers, with good accessibility and a mobile ticket system

Starting Point at Westermarkt for a Central Departure

This classic salonboat tour begins at Westermarkt 20 in Amsterdam. The meeting point is easily accessible via public transportation, and the tour concludes back at the same location, making it convenient for connecting to other city attractions or transport links. The group size is limited to 25, fostering a more intimate experience, and the entire booking process is handled through a mobile ticket, simplifying access.

The timing is designed for flexibility, with most bookings made about six weeks in advance. Travelers should aim to arrive promptly, as the tour starts on schedule. The boats are covered with large windows—a feature praised for allowing unobstructed sightseeing regardless of the weather, though good weather does enhance the overall experience.

Iconic Landmarks: From the Magere Brug to the Rijksmuseum

The itinerary includes stops at some of Amsterdam’s most famous sites. The tour begins with the Magere Brug, the “Skinny Bridge”, renowned for its romantic wooden structure and its reputation as a “love bridge” where kissing underneath is believed to be lucky.

Next, the cruise passes through the Amsterdam Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age. The main canals—Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht—are lined with monumental buildings and well-preserved architecture, offering stunning views that are especially impressive at sunset or when lit up in the evening.

The boat glides past the Anne Frank House, one of the most visited landmarks in Amsterdam, providing a glimpse of the historic house where Anne Frank and her family hid during WWII. The Houseboat Museum also makes an appearance, offering insights into the unique life on Amsterdam’s famed houseboats.

As the cruise continues, you’ll see the Jordaan neighborhood, a charming area with streets named after trees and flowers, and the Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets), filled with boutique shops, vintage stores, and cozy cafés. The lively Leidseplein area, known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment venues, also comes into view from the water.

The Artistic and Religious Sights Along the Cruise

The Spiegelkwartier features numerous galleries and antique shops, with the Rijksmuseum visible from the canal, showcasing masterpieces from Dutch painters. The De Duif church, with its beautifully restored murals after extensive renovations, highlights Amsterdam’s religious architecture.

Further along, the Amstel River becomes prominent, the city’s original waterway and namesake of Amsterdam and the famous Amstel Beer. The Koninklijk Theater Carre, a Neo-Renaissance theatre established in 1887, offers a glance at Amsterdam’s cultural scene, hosting musicals, cabaret, and concerts.

The Hermitage Amsterdam, housed in a historic 17th-century building, adds a touch of international art, being a branch of the Hermitage Museum of Saint Petersburg. The Blauwbrug bridge, connecting different neighborhoods across the Amstel, provides a picturesque photo opportunity.

Cultural and Historic Stops: Churches, Museums, and Monuments

The De Duif church, with its history dating back to 1857, is a notable religious site, beautifully restored and open to the public. The South Church (Zuiderkerk), Amsterdam’s first Protestant church, is also part of the cruise’s visual journey.

The Amsterdam Cheese Museum stands out for its engaging cheese tasting experience, where visitors can learn about Dutch cheese-making history, see the world’s most expensive cheese slicer, and dress up like a cheese farmer for fun. This stop complements the cruise’s cultural depth with a tasty, interactive element.

Other notable stops include the Statue of Anne Frank, a poignant reminder of WWII history, and the Rembrandtplein square, a lively hub filled with bars and cafes. Art lovers will appreciate the Spiegelgracht and the Willem-Holthuysen Museum, showcasing historic interiors and art collections.

The Unique Views and Comfortable Experience on the Boat

The salon boat itself is designed for comfort, with ample seating and large windows that can be opened for fresh air. Reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, such as Faried and Fran, who share engaging stories about Amsterdam’s sights.

Passengers enjoy unlimited beer and wine, along with Dutch cheeses, making the cruise feel more like a relaxed social gathering than a typical tour. The entertaining hosts and comfy seats, combined with the covered windows, ensure a cozy experience even if the weather turns less cooperative.

The timing and pacing of the tour are praised for being just right—long enough to see the highlights and learn some history without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters interaction and a more personalized atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Most bookings are made around 42 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this popular tour. The meeting point at Westermarkt is well situated for exploring other nearby attractions, such as the Anne Frank House.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility if plans change. While the tour is suitable for most, travelers should note that good weather is essential for the best experience, as the boat requires sunlight and dry conditions for ideal sightseeing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This salonboat cruise appeals especially to those interested in Amsterdam’s waterways, architectural beauty, and historic neighborhoods. The cheese and unlimited drinks elevate it from a simple sightseeing trip to a delightful social outing.

It is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, informative experience with friendly guides and unbeatable views. The compact duration makes it suited for travelers on a tight schedule or those who want a quick yet rundown of the city.

Final Thoughts on the Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Cheese and Wine

This one-hour salonboat tour offers an affordable, charming way to experience Amsterdam from the water. Its notable stops and impressive landmarks, combined with delicious Dutch cheeses and unlimited drinks, make it a well-rounded outing.

The friendly guides, comfortable boat, and covered windows ensure a pleasant experience in various weather conditions. While it’s a short tour, it packs in enough highlights to satisfy those seeking a relaxed, scenic overview with a tasty twist.

This tour provides excellent value, especially considering the included food and drinks, and is highly recommended for anyone wanting a cozy, cultural exploration of Amsterdam’s canals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally accessible for most travelers, including families, and offers a fun cheese and drink experience. However, the unlimited alcohol may be better suited for adults; children can still enjoy the sightseeing and cheese tasting.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What is included in the tour price?
The $39.42 fee covers the 1-hour cruise, Dutch cheese tasting, and unlimited beer and wine. The tour is operated with a mobile ticket for ease of access.

How many stops does the tour make?
While it’s primarily a sightseeing cruise, the boat passes by numerous landmarks and neighborhoods, including the Anne Frank House, Jordaan, Leidseplein, and Rijksmuseum—all from the water.

Is the boat covered for rain or wind?
Yes, the large windows on the boat are covered and can be opened, allowing for good visibility and protection from weather, ensuring a comfortable experience in various conditions.