Amsterdam Private Dinner Cruise incl Drinks & 2-course Dinner 2hr

A private dinner cruise in Amsterdam offers a unique way to enjoy the city’s iconic waterways—a two-hour journey that promises not only stunning sights but also a tasty two-course meal paired with drinks. For around $438 per person, you’ll get a personalized experience that feels both special and authentic. The cruise departs from Oosterdokskade, and you’ll have the chance to select your restaurant before boarding, which helps customize the evening to your taste.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the combination of culinary choices and scenic advantage. Unlike crowded restaurants or busy city streets, cruising the canals allows you to take in landmarks like the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) and the Houseboat Museum from a peaceful vantage point. Plus, the option to choose your meal from a local restaurant menu adds a level of flexibility that many other tours lack.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the price is on the higher side, especially considering that drinks like champagne cost extra. If you’re looking for an affordable or budget-friendly activity, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those wanting a more intimate, high-quality experience, it’s a worthwhile splurge. This tour suits couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who values personalized service and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with restaurant selection and individual menu choices
• Scenic canal views away from crowds, passing iconic landmarks like Anne Frank House and Magere Brug
• Includes drinks, coffee, and a two-course dinner, with optional champagne at extra cost
• Two hours of relaxation aboard a private boat, ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations
• Highly rated for knowledgeable guides and quality food, with a perfect blend of sightseeing and dining
• Booking well in advance is recommended, with most guests reserving about 43 days ahead

An Up-Close Look at the Experience

Imagine stepping out of a cozy restaurant, your stomach full of local delicacies, and stepping onto a classic boat that will take you through the tranquil, beautifully lit canals of Amsterdam. That’s exactly what this private dinner cruise offers—an elegant blend of sightseeing, gastronomy, and exclusivity.

The Booking and Arrival

You’ll start at Oosterdokskade 8, a convenient location near public transportation, making it easy to find your way. Booking in advance—most guests do so about 43 days ahead—ensures you secure your preferred date and restaurant. After confirming your reservation, you’ll choose your restaurant, which adds a personal touch and helps tailor the experience. This is a nice feature because you can pick a spot that suits your group’s taste, whether it’s a cozy local eatery or a more upscale option.

The Onboard Experience

Once aboard, the boat—typically a classic saloon style vessel—sets the tone for an intimate, relaxed evening. The crew, including knowledgeable guides like Captain Carl or Captain Nickel, are praised for their friendliness and professionalism. As the boat slips into the canals, you’ll glide past some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights, including the Anne Frank House, and the Houseboat Museum, a 1914 sail ship turned residential home in 1967.

The Highlights of the Route

Expect a scenic journey that’s free from sidewalk crowds. The route highlights crowd-free views of the Magere Brug, a picturesque bridge that’s especially beautiful lit at night. The boat’s windows frame the city’s historic buildings, canal houses, and bridges, making it a photographer’s paradise. Several reviews mention the excellent vantage point for pictures and the peaceful ambiance of the cruise.

The Food and Drinks

The centerpiece of this tour is the two-course dinner. You order à la carte from the restaurant menu beforehand, and onboard, your choices are brought to you at the right time. The quality of the food has received glowing praise; reviews mention delicious meals from partner restaurants, with one reviewer calling it “fantastic” and “spectacular.” The meal is complemented by a selection of drinks, including wine, beer, and soda, with coffee or tea available afterward. Champagne is available for an extra fee, perfect if you’re celebrating.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity. It’s not a cookie-cutter tourist trap but a chance to experience the city like a local, traveling quietly through its famous waterways. The individual menu choices and restaurant selection ensure that each guest’s preferences are met, adding a level of personalization not found on larger group tours.

The Authenticity of Reviews

Authentic guest reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, especially noting their engaging personalities. For example, Laurel_L described their sailing with Captain Carl as “lovely,” and Conner_D called the experience “absolutely fantastic,” highlighting the great food and excellent service. Conversely, one review mentioned the food being average, but even that reviewer appreciated the guide’s engaging personality. This variety of feedback shows that while the experience is generally highly rated, the quality of the meal can vary depending on individual expectations and restaurant choices.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise begins with a gentle departure from Oosterdokskade, where you’ll meet your captain and crew. As the boat moves into the canals, you’ll pass notable sights, including the Anne Frank House, which remains a powerful symbol of history and resilience. This particular route is designed to showcase Amsterdam’s iconic architecture and bridges—notably the Magere Brug, which is especially enchanting at night.

The cruise includes several stops to admire the Houseboat Museum, a converted 1914 sailing cargo ship that became a home in 1967. These stops are purely visual, but they add depth to your understanding of how the city’s waterways have shaped daily life in Amsterdam.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy your pre-selected meal, which can be a variety of Dutch or international dishes, depending on the restaurant you choose. It’s a chance to savor local flavors while watching the city glide by.

The return to your starting point offers a peaceful conclusion to your evening, making it ideal for winding down after a day of sightseeing or as a romantic highlight.

Why This Tour Works Well

This private dinner cruise is perfect for travelers who want to combine gastronomy, scenic views, and intimacy. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or those celebrating a special occasion. The personalized restaurant selection allows you to select a meal that suits your taste, and the flexibility of the route means you’ll see the city from a peaceful, less crowded perspective.

The reviews attest to its appeal: many guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and stunning views. The fact that it’s a private experience means you’re not hurried or squeezed among strangers, which elevates the whole outing.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is well-loved, keep in mind that the price is quite high, especially considering drinks like champagne are extra. If you’re on a budget, you might consider other canal tours, but those won’t offer the personal touch or dinner component.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, given that most guests reserve about 6 weeks ahead, ensuring you get your preferred restaurant and date. The activity lasts roughly 2 hours, making it an excellent option for an early evening activity or a romantic start to your night.

Weather can impact the experience—it’s weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a complete refund. So, it’s wise to check the forecast and be prepared for the possibility of a chilly or rainy night.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those seeking a personalized, high-quality dinner in an authentic setting. Food lovers will appreciate the chance to enjoy a locally curated menu, while sightseers will love passing by iconic landmarks without the usual crowds. It’s ideal for romantic couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a memorable, intimate look at Amsterdam’s waterways.

It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a quick, casual sightseeing tour. Also, if you’re sensitive to weather, be prepared for possible cancellations or changes.

FAQ

Can I choose my restaurant?
Yes, you select your preferred restaurant before the cruise, allowing for a customized dining experience.

What’s included in the price?
The fare covers a 2-hour private canal cruise, a 2-course dinner, wine, beer, soda, and coffee or tea. Champagne costs extra.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers reserve about 43 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date and restaurant.

What’s the typical duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it suitable for an early evening or special occasion.

Is it suitable for children or service animals?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The experience is weather-dependent.

To sum it up, this private dinner cruise offers a rare blend of intimate dining, scenic canal views, and personalized service. It’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways away from the crowds, with the added bonus of locally sourced food and drinks. While it’s a bit pricey, the quality of the experience—especially the friendly guides, excellent food, and beautiful vistas—makes it a memorable splurge. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a relaxing way to see the city, this cruise ticks many boxes for an authentic, enjoyable evening in Amsterdam.