Rock the City – Cruise & Optional Heineken Experience

Exploring Amsterdam becomes even more engaging with the Rock the City tour, a well-rounded experience that combines a visit to the Heineken Experience with a charming canal cruise. For about 2.5 hours, visitors enjoy a combination of culture, history, and lively scenery, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a relaxed yet informative way to see the city. This tour is led by family-run businesses—the Heineken Experience and Blue Boat Company—both rooted in the traditions and love for Amsterdam.

The tour offers entry to the Heineken brewery, including two beers, and a scenic boat ride aboard a branded Heineken boat. The canal cruise features a live guide, who shares stories about Amsterdam and its connection to Heineken, along with one drink and salty snacks on board. The flexibility to choose whether to start with the brewery or the cruise adds to the appeal. This experience suits travelers looking for a combination of beer tasting, sightseeing, and local stories, with the option to extend or shorten the tour as desired.

Key Points

• Includes both a Heineken Experience tour and a canal cruise on a Branded Heineken boat.
• Alcohol included: Two fresh Heineken beers during the brewery visit and one drink on the water.
• Flexible schedule: You can choose to do the brewery tour first or the cruise.
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours in total, with the Heineken Experience lasting about 1.5 hours.
• Guided commentary during the canal trip provides insights into Amsterdam’s history and Heineken’s city connection.
• Salty snacks and photo opportunities make the cruise both enjoyable and Instagram-worthy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Heineken Experience at the Former Brewery Site

The Heineken Experience takes place at the historic brewery building, now renovated into an interactive museum. It is a self-guided tour that lasts about 1.5 hours, where visitors explore the brewing process, learn about Heineken’s history, and see how the brand has grown into a worldwide icon. The highlight is sampling two freshly poured Heineken beers directly from the brewery’s kitchens, offering a genuine taste of the brand.

This venue is more than just a marketing stop; it provides an engaging look at craftsmanship, with modern audiovisual elements enhancing the experience. The brewery’s prime location across from the dock makes it easy to transition to the boat cruise, whether you opt to do the brewery visit first or after.

Navigating the Canal Cruise on a Branded Heineken Boat

The canal cruise lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour, sailing along some of Amsterdam’s most scenic waterways. The boat is branded with Heineken visuals, creating a fun, immersive atmosphere. Onboard, a live guide shares stories about Amsterdam’s historic architecture, bridges, and neighborhoods like Grachtengordel, Herengracht, and the IJ River.

Passengers get to relax with one drink and salty snacks, enjoying the gentle breeze and sparkling water views. The route passes notable sights such as the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and NEMO Science Museum, offering a visual feast of the city’s diversity—from historic buildings to modern architecture. Reviewers often mention the knowledgeable guide and the beautiful scenery, making this a relaxing way to see Amsterdam from the water.

Booking Details and Flexibility

The tour departs from Stadhouderskade 550, with the meeting point depending on the chosen option. The Heineken Experience entry is at a pre-scheduled time slot, which must be booked in advance. The boat cruise departs multiple times daily from the dock across from the brewery, with no reserved time—guests can board the next available boat at their convenience.

Participants must be 18 or over, as the tour involves alcohol consumption. The self-guided brewery tour lasts about 1.5 hours, and the cruise is around 45 minutes to 1 hour. It is possible to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking process allows pay later options for added flexibility.

The Experience of Guides and Guest Interactions

Both the Heineken Experience and blue boat guides are recognized for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. Fern, a guide praised in reviews, is noted for answering questions thoroughly and adding entertainment value to the cruise. The guides’ storytelling enhances the local flavor of the trip, making it as educational as it is enjoyable.

Some reviews highlight minor issues, such as audio limitations on the boat, especially in open sections. However, overall, guests appreciate the enthusiasm and expertise of the guides, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips for Booking and Attending

Booking as early as possible is recommended, especially since boat availability can be limited. It’s wise to check with Blue Boat Company for the next departure times if planning a flexible schedule. The tour is only available for guests over 18, so younger travelers need to explore other options.

Guests should allow approximately 2.5 hours to enjoy both activities comfortably, with enough time to move between the brewery and the dock. The self-guided nature of the brewery tour means visitors can spend as much or as little time as they like, while the canal cruise offers a relaxed, scenic experience.

Comparing Rock the City to Other Amsterdam Tours

This combined package offers great value by combining two popular attractions: the Heineken Experience and a canal cruise. Similar experiences may include additional drinks or luxury options, but this tour strikes a balance between cost and entertainment.

The self-guided brewery tour is less intensive than guided ones but still provides insightful information. The scenic canal cruise, being guided with commentary, offers local stories and sightseeing, making it a well-rounded way to experience Amsterdam in a short time.

Final Thoughts on Rock the City

The Rock the City tour offers a fun, straightforward way to enjoy Amsterdam’s culture and scenery. Its combination of the iconic Heineken brand with the city’s waterways appeals to beer lovers, history buffs, and photography enthusiasts alike. The flexibility to choose your starting point** adds convenience, and the friendly guides are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

While some may find the audio on the cruise less audible in open sections, this does not significantly detract from the overall experience. The value for money is high, considering the two activities, drinks, and snacks included. This tour is ideal for adults wanting a lively, informative glimpse of Amsterdam with a relaxed pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only available for guests aged 18 and over due to alcohol consumption.

Can I do the canal cruise before the Heineken Experience?
Yes, you can choose to start with the canal cruise or visit the brewery first, depending on your schedule.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The Heineken Experience lasts about 1.5 hours, while the canal cruise lasts between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Yes, two beers are included during the Heineken Experience, and one drink is included on the canal cruise. Salty snacks are also provided.

What are the meeting points?
The main meeting point is at Stadhouderskade 550, with the exact location depending on your booking.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The provided information does not specify accessibility details, so travelers with special needs should verify directly.

What is the duration of the entire experience?
The entire tour takes approximately 2.5 hours, including both activities and travel time.

Do guides speak multiple languages?
Guides are available in Dutch and English to accommodate most guests.

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