Moco Museum Amsterdam Entry and 75-minute Canal Cruise

When you think of Amsterdam, two things immediately come to mind: the city’s iconic canal network and its vibrant art scene. This experience blends both into a single, easy-to-book package that includes a 75-minute canal cruise and entry to the Moco Museum for modern and contemporary art lovers. For $47.47 per person, you get a flexible, engaging way to see the city from the water while enjoying inspiring art.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of combining two top attractions into one ticket, saving time and effort. The guided commentary during the cruise offers insights into Amsterdam’s waterways, giving context beyond just pretty views — a bonus for history buffs or first-timers. Plus, the art collection at Moco, featuring works by Banksy, Warhol, and Lichtenstein, provides a playful, thought-provoking break from sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the outside noise during the canal cruise, which some reviewers mention might make it harder to hear the commentary clearly. Also, since the Moco Museum admission is timeslot-specific, planning ahead is essential to ensure you visit during your preferred window. This tour suits travelers who want to combine a scenic water tour with a dose of modern art, especially those eager to maximize limited time in the city.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines a canal cruise and museum visit for convenience.
• Flexible schedule: Cruise departs every 15 minutes; museum entry is valid anytime during open hours.
• Informed insights: Guided commentary enriches the water route with historical details.
• High-value: For under $50, you get two top-rated attractions plus the potential to add snacks and drinks.
• Authentic art: The Moco Museum offers a collection of provocative, modern works by renowned artists.
• Limited drawbacks: Outside noise can affect the cruise experience; booking times for the museum are fixed.

Amsterdam is a city that whispers stories through its winding canals and bursts into color with its world-class art. For visitors wanting to soak in both, this combined tour from Blue Boat Company offers an accessible, well-paced way to do just that.

Starting with the 75-minute canal cruise, you’ll glide past historic merchant homes, passing under those famous bridges, all while listening to guided commentary that brings the waterways’ history alive. This is one of those quintessential Amsterdam moments that you’ll remember — the tranquility of floating through a city built on water, combined with the lively chatter of your guide sharing stories. We loved how the commentary helps you appreciate the architecture and history of the city, making the water experience more meaningful.

The Moco Museum is just a short walk from the docks, housed in a cozy boutique space packed with bold, modern art. For art lovers, it’s a dream — works by Banksy, Warhol, and Lichtenstein that challenge perceptions and invite humor and irony into reflections on society. The ticket is valid for any time during opening hours, giving you flexibility to plan your visit after the cruise, which departs every 15 minutes.

One aspect to consider is that some reviewers found outside noise during the cruise a little distracting, making it harder to catch all the commentary. However, the quality of the views — passing under bridges, past houseboats, and along the riverbanks — more than makes up for it. Plus, the option to include snacks and a drink during the cruise adds a pleasant touch if you choose to upgrade.

This tour is ideal for those who want a well-rounded Amsterdam experience without the hassle of coordinating separate tickets. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic views and are curious about modern art, or anyone on a tight schedule eager to make the most of their time in the city.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Canal Cruise: An Amsterdam Classic

Starting at one of two docks near Leidseplein or the Rijksmuseum, you’ll board a Blue Boat Company vessel. The 75-minute cruise takes you through the city’s historic canals, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you float along, you’ll pass by iconic spots like the westerkerk, built between 1620 and 1631, and admire the distinctive Dutch architecture of merchant homes.

You’ll learn about the waterways’ history through audio commentary in 19 languages, a feature that makes it accessible for international visitors. We found that the guided narration gave us a richer understanding of the city’s development, especially as we cruised over the IJ river and the Amstel.

While some reviews note outside noise can interfere with the audio, most agree that the views and stories compensate. The boat’s open-air design offers great photo opportunities, especially when passing under the many bridges that are part of Amsterdam’s charm.

The Moco Museum: Modern Art in a Cozy Setting

Located at Honthorststraat 20, the Moco Museum is just a short walk from the cruise docks. Its collection is curated around modern and contemporary art, with playful, provocative works that challenge perceptions and societal norms. The collection of Banksy pieces is especially popular, along with pieces by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

The museum’s layout is intimate, making it easy to navigate and appreciate each piece. The ticket allows you to visit anytime during open hours, but it’s important to note that you cannot change the time slot once booked. This is a minor inconvenience but one worth noting for planning your day.

Many visitors appreciate the unparalleled collection of subversive art, which offers a different perspective from more traditional museums. The humor and irony used in the pieces reflect on modern society in a way that’s accessible and engaging.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

• Booking and flexibility: The cruise is an “open ticket,” allowing you to hop on the next available boat from two docks. The museum ticket has a fixed time, so plan to visit accordingly.
• Departure points: The docks are conveniently located near major attractions like Leidseplein and the Rijksmuseum, accessible via tram or metro.
• Duration and group size: The cruise lasts about 75 minutes, and the tour is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortably paced experience.
• Price and value: For under $50, you get two of Amsterdam’s must-do activities plus the option to include snacks and drinks — excellent value for most budget travelers.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed; the tour is suitable for most travelers, but outside noise at the cruise might be a consideration for those sensitive to sound.

What the Reviews Highlight

One reviewer mentions, “It was nice to see part of the city although the outside noise didn’t allow us to hear well what was being explained.” This points to the outdoor nature of the boat and potential for ambient noise. However, most agree the views and the storytelling make the tradeoff worthwhile.

Another reviewer notes, “The collection at Moco is fantastic, especially if you like edgy, subversive art with humor.” This reflects the museum’s appeal for those interested in art that challenges societal norms but is also playful and engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick but meaningful overview of Amsterdam’s waterways and modern art scene. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a blend of scenic views and cultural enrichment without spending a fortune or dedicating an entire day.

Families with children can enjoy the kids’ audio story and booklet, making it a family-friendly option. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the curated collection at Moco, especially if they enjoy art that makes you think as well as smile.

Those who value flexibility will enjoy the departure schedule for the canal cruise, while anyone conscious of cost will find the package offers great value for the price.

This combined canal cruise and museum ticket offers a convenient way to experience a slice of Amsterdam’s essence — its waterways and its cutting-edge art. The guided commentary during the cruise enriches the scenery, while the Moco collection delivers a playful, modern twist on the city’s artistic heritage.

While outside noise during the cruise might be a minor drawback for some, most appreciate the stunning views and insightful narration. The flexibility of the open cruise ticket, combined with the museum’s timed entry, makes it a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and experiences.

This tour is a fantastic value for those looking to combine scenic, educational, and cultural highlights without feeling rushed. It’s especially fitting for art lovers, waterway enthusiasts, or anyone keen to see a different side of Amsterdam.

FAQs

Can I join the canal cruise at any time?
Yes, the cruise departs every 15 minutes, and your ticket is an “open ticket,” so you can hop on the next available boat from either dock.

Is the museum admission timed?
Yes, your Moco Museum ticket has a specific time slot that you select when booking. You need to arrive during that window to gain entry.

How long does the entire experience take?
The cruise lasts about 75 minutes, and you can spend as much time as you like at the museum during its open hours, making the total visit flexible.

Are snacks and drinks included?
They are optional and can be added during booking. A snack box and one drink are available during the cruise if selected, adding a nice touch to your water journey.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, with a free kids’ audio story and booklet included, making it engaging for families.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled date for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but outside noise on the boat may be an issue for some.

Where are the docks located?
One near Leidseplein at Stadhouderskade 501 and another near the Heineken Experience at Stadhouderskade 550, both within walking distance of major transit stops.

Exploring Amsterdam from the waterways and delving into its modern art scene has never been easier or more enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this experience offers a compact yet enriching taste of what makes the city so special.