Amsterdam: River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes

Amsterdam: River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes offers a unique way to see the city from the water while satisfying your appetite with an endless supply of warm, fluffy pancakes. For just $30 per person, you get a 75-minute journey through the IJ river, passing iconic sights like Centraal Station, the EYE Film Museum, and REM Eiland, all topped off with a generous buffet of Dutch pancakes. The experience is organized by Pannenkoekenboot Amsterdam, and it’s a fun, relaxed outing suitable for families, friends, or anyone eager for a lighthearted taste of local culture.

What makes this cruise stand out is not just the scenic views but the interactive pancake buffet, which appeals especially to those who love to customize their food and indulge guilt-free. Plus, the onboard playroom for kids makes it ideal for families. On the flip side, some reviewers mention that the cruise route might not showcase every major attraction, so if sightseeing is your primary goal, this might not be the most comprehensive option. Still, for authentic flavors and a lively atmosphere, it’s a great pick—especially if you’re traveling with children or just want a casual, tasty experience on the water.

This experience is best suited for pancake lovers, families with kids, and travelers who enjoy a laid-back, social vibe. If you want to combine sightseeing with a hearty meal, or if you’re simply curious about Dutch pancakes beyond breakfast, this cruise offers good value and plenty of fun.

Key Points

• Scenic 75-minute cruise on the IJ river with views of Amsterdam’s modern and historic architecture.
• Unlimited Dutch pancakes with a variety of toppings including cheese, ham, fruits, jams, and eggs.
• Family-friendly: Includes a playroom for kids to keep them entertained.
• Easy access: The free ferry from Central Station makes reaching the departure point simple.
• Inclusive food options: Gluten-free and vegan pancakes available.
• Additional costs: Drinks and a small local entertainment tax are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: What You Can Expect

When we think about a river cruise in Amsterdam, most of us picture views of historic canals and historic bridges. With this particular experience, you get a different perspective—sailing along the IJ river, which is more modern and industrial but increasingly vibrant. The cruise begins at the NDSM Wharf, reached easily via the free ferry from Central Station—a charming, quick ride that sets the tone for a relaxed adventure. The ferry itself is part of the fun, often described as interesting and enjoyable, adding a bit of local flavor even before the boat departs.

Once onboard, you’ll notice that the boat is well-equipped, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The crew is praised for their attentiveness and friendliness, making sure the experience feels welcoming. The ship itself is described as pretty and clean, with a large playroom for children filled with balls, ideal for keeping younger travelers occupied.

The Scenic Route and Sights

The main attraction is the 75-minute cruise along the IJ river, where you’ll see a mix of modern architecture—such as the EYE Film Museum—and the old cityscape fading into the background. A highlight for many is catching sight of REM Eiland, a famous former television studio turned landmark, and the A’DAM Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the city. During the summer months, you might even spot impressive cruise ships docked at the shipyard, adding an extra touch of grandeur to the landscape.

While the cruise doesn’t focus on commentary or guided sights—some reviews mention the lack of detailed narration—you’ll still enjoy the sweeping views and the chance to relax and take photos. Many guests note that the focus is more on the food and atmosphere than on sightseeing, which suits those looking for a fun, casual outing.

The Pancake Buffet: The Heart of the Experience

The highlight for most visitors is undoubtedly the all-you-can-eat pancake buffet. The options include freshly baked natural, apple, and bacon pancakes, accompanied by a generous selection of garnishes—cheese, ham, fruits, jams, and eggs. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free and vegan options are available, making this accessible for most diets.

Guests frequently comment on the deliciousness of the pancakes, with several describing them as “filling and delicious”. A common thread is the abundance of toppings, which allows for endless customization—some reviewers mention eating multiple pancakes, while others savor just one or two, fully satisfied. The pancakes are described as “crepes, not American pancakes”, which might influence your expectations if you’re used to thick, fluffy stacks.

The Atmosphere and Additional Features

The onboard environment is described as relaxed and family-friendly, with a lively but not rowdy vibe. The playroom for kids is a big hit, giving parents a moment to enjoy the food while children play safely. The crew is appreciated for their helpfulness and politeness, which contributes to a positive experience.

A few reviews mention the price, emphasizing that you get great value for money—paying only $30 for a scenic cruise and a hearty buffet. However, drinks and the local entertainment tax (about €2.60 per person) are extra, so budget accordingly if you plan to enjoy beverages on board.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The typical journey lasts about 75 minutes, with departure times varying, so it’s best to check availability in advance. The cruise begins at Ms. van Riemsdijkweg opposite no. 41 in Amsterdam-Noord, accessible via the NDSM ferry. The ferry runs frequently, and since it’s free for pedestrians and bicycles, it’s a convenient way to start your adventure.

Once aboard, the boat gently glides along the IJ river, offering a different perspective of Amsterdam. You’ll pass by significant city landmarks like Centraal Station, the A’DAM Lookout, and REM Eiland. The route, however, is primarily focused on providing a scenic waterway experience rather than a comprehensive sightseeing tour. Some guests note that the actual route might not include every major attraction but offers enough visual interest to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

At the end of the cruise, you return to the starting point, making it a straightforward outing. The entire experience is quite flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if you need to adapt your plans.

Food and Beverage Considerations

While the pancake buffet is all-inclusive, drinks are not included and cost extra. Guests often mention that drinks are reasonably priced, but some find them a bit expensive compared to local standards. It’s worth noting that the pancakes themselves are the star attraction, with many reviewers praising their variety and quality.

The buffet setup allows you to indulge as much as you like, adding toppings like cheese, ham, fruits, jams, or eggs—sometimes multiple times! This creates a fun, interactive element that appeals to children and adults alike. The gluten-free and vegan options are appreciated, making it accessible for different dietary needs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families with children, thanks to the playroom and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s also ideal for foodies who love breakfast or brunch-style meals and want to enjoy an authentic Dutch pancake experience. If sightseeing isn’t your main priority but you want a fun, casual way to see a different side of Amsterdam, this offers a charming compromise.

Travelers who appreciate friendly service, value for money, and delicious, customizable food will find this experience satisfying. However, if your goal is a detailed guided tour of Amsterdam’s landmarks, you might prefer a more traditional sightseeing cruise.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam River Cruise with All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes blends scenic water views with a hearty, customizable breakfast, making it a standout experience for many travelers. The combination of relaxing cruise time, lively atmosphere, and generous pancake buffet offers a memorable outing that appeals to a broad audience—families, couples, or groups of friends.

While it may not be a comprehensive city tour, it compensates with its convivial environment and delicious food. For those looking for a lighthearted way to enjoy Amsterdam’s riverside charm without breaking the bank, this cruise proves to be a delightful choice.

If you’re a pancake enthusiast, traveling with kids, or simply seeking a fun, informal activity that lets you enjoy the city from the water, this experience is worth considering. Just arrive hungry—because the pancakes are plentiful, and the views are worth savoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is very family-friendly. There’s a large playroom with balls for kids, and children 0-2 years old can ride free.

How do I get to the departure point?
You can take the free ferry from Central Station to NDSM Wharf, which stops next to the boat. The ferry is for pedestrians and bicycles, making it easy to reach.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a 75-minute cruise along the IJ river and an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet with toppings. Gluten-free and vegan pancakes are available.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. They are available for purchase on board, with a local entertainment tax of €2.60 per person to be paid onboard.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, with departure times depending on availability.

Is the boat accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, and strollers can be brought aboard. However, the toilets are upstairs and only reachable by stairs.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve your spot to guarantee availability, especially during busy periods.

Are there dietary options?
Yes, gluten-free and vegan pancakes are available, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the cruise lasts 75 minutes and has indoor seating, you’ll remain comfortable. Some reviews mention that the route might be affected by weather, but the pancakes and atmosphere remain enjoyable regardless.

This experience offers a lively, tasty, and scenic way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterway scene while indulging in authentic Dutch pancakes. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly outing packed with flavor and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: