Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise

If you’re heading to Haarlem and craving a taste of local charm combined with a scenic waterway experience, the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a compelling option. For around $40.59 per person, you’ll spend about an hour and a half gently cruising along Haarlem’s historic canals, enjoying carefully selected cheeses and wines supplied by Café de Paris. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a relaxed and intimate way to soak in the city’s beauty while indulging your senses.

What we love most about this cruise is the friendly atmosphere created by the host and captain—they’re approachable, knowledgeable, and eager to enhance your experience. Plus, the local cheeses and wines truly elevate the journey, giving you a taste of the region’s culinary delights amid beautiful surroundings. Also, the heated boarding area ensures comfort even on cooler evenings, adding to the overall value.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cheese portion is modest, and the boat sails back and forth, which might be less appealing if you’re expecting a longer, more stationary cruise. However, if you’re looking for a cozy, guided experience with excellent wine, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a mellow, intimate outing to enjoy Haarlem from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a 90-minute scenic canal cruise with local cheeses and wines.
• Comfort and Convenience: Heated boarding area and a friendly host make for a relaxed outing.
• Central Location: Launches from Spaarne 11A, right in the heart of Haarlem.
• Limited Age Range: Not suitable for guests under 18, including infants.
• Booking Tips: Book well in advance (about 20 days) for better availability.
• Value for Money: Good quality wines and cheeses for the price, although some may find the portion size modest.

An In-Depth Look at the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise

When we think of Haarlem, images of picturesque streets, historic buildings, and art museums come to mind. The Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a different, relaxing way to experience the city—by water. For about 1.5 hours, you’ll glide along the Spaarne River, passing landmarks like the Molen ‘De Adriaan’, the Frans Hals Museum, the Jopen Beer Brewery, and the Teylers Museum. Each stop is a chance to glimpse Haarlem’s charming architecture and lively cultural scene from a unique vantage point.

The cruise starts at 5:30 pm from Spaarne 11A, a location that’s easy to reach via public transportation or a short walk from central Haarlem. From the moment you step on board, you’re greeted by a welcoming host and a skilled skipper who will take care of navigation and service. The boat features a heated boarding area, ensuring comfort even if the evening air turns cooler, which is especially nice in spring or fall.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Cruising along the Spaarne, you’ll enjoy views of Haarlem’s vibrant city center. The boat doesn’t just drift aimlessly; it provides a guided narrative about the sights, with some reviews mentioning that the guides provide “nice information about Haarlem,” adding an educational touch to the relaxing ride.

Next, the cruise passes Molen ‘De Adriaan’, Haarlem’s iconic windmill built in 1779. It’s a delightful photo stop and a reminder of the city’s traditional industries. As you cruise past Haarlem’s vibrant streets, you’ll see the Frans Hals Museum, which is renowned as Haarlem’s premier art destination, and the Teylers Museum, a fascinating spot for science and art lovers.

One of the more unique features is passing by the Jopen Church, a converted beer brewery. Here, you might find the guide mentioning Haarlem’s brewing heritage, and if you’re lucky, you can taste some of the local Jopen beers—an added bonus for beer aficionados.

The Cheese and Wine Experience

The highlight of the cruise is, of course, the pairing of cheeses and wines. The cheeses are three high-quality selections from France and Italy, carefully curated by Café de Paris. The wines are chosen specifically to complement each cheese, making every sip and bite a mini culinary adventure.

From the reviews, we learn that the wine quality is notably good, with one reviewer mentioning “the drinks were delicious,” and the guide being attentive with refills. The cheese portions are described as “skinny” but flavorful and paired thoughtfully with the wines. The selection includes three wines, which, while modest, are enough to give a good taste of different varietals.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With a maximum of 30 travelers, this cruise maintains an intimate vibe. The atmosphere is described as “nice,” and many travelers appreciate the friendly, hospitable attitude of the crew. This setting makes it ideal for couples or small groups looking for a laid-back and social evening.

The reviews suggest that some find the experience somewhat limited—the boat sails back and forth, and the cheese serving is “very skinny,” but the overall experience remains positive, particularly because of the delicious wines and friendly service.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $40.59 per person, the cruise offers good value, especially considering the high-quality wines and the local cheeses. For travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic evening, it’s a worthwhile indulgence. However, the small cheese portion might disappoint those expecting a more substantial snack, and the sailing pattern could be a drawback for those seeking a more stationary experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for couples or small groups eager to enjoy a memorable evening with a blend of scenic views, good wine, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for wine lovers and those wanting a casual introduction to Haarlem’s waterways. Families with older children or teens might find the focus on alcohol limiting, as kids under 18 are not permitted.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone visiting Haarlem, the Cheese and Wine Cruise presents a cozy and authentic way to see the city from a different angle. The stunning views of historic buildings, combined with high-quality wines and carefully selected cheeses, make for a delightful and memorable evening. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a laid-back, intimate experience—not a party cruise, but a chance to unwind and indulge amid beautiful surroundings.

The friendly guides and small group size ensure a personalized touch, and the heated area adds comfort. While the cheese portions are modest and the sailing pattern repetitive, the overall experience is charming and worth considering if you enjoy good wine, scenic waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.

This cruise truly offers a simple but satisfying way to enjoy Haarlem’s waterways and culinary delights—an experience that can easily become one of your favorite memories of the city.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
No, children under 18, including infants, are not allowed on this cruise due to alcohol service.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the views, cheese, and wine without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the canal cruise, three cheeses, wines paired with cheeses, a welcoming host and skipper, and toilet facilities onboard.

Where does the cruise start?
The meeting point is at Spaarne 11A, Haarlem, a central location easily accessible by public transportation.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome, and the intimate group size makes it easy to meet others or enjoy the experience alone.

In summary, the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a cozy, scenic, and tasty way to see the city from its waterways. While small in cheese portions, the overall experience provides a gentle, convivial environment suited for those seeking a relaxed, authentic evening. If you appreciate good wine and charming views, this cruise is a pleasing little gem in Haarlem’s array of activities.