Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting Cruise

Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting Cruise
Rating: 5.0/5 (2 reviews)
Price: $38
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Supplier: Amsterdam Circle Line

A Relaxing, Tasty Tour of Amsterdam’s Canals
Imagine cruising through the heart of Amsterdam with the city’s historic canals shimmering under atmospheric lights. For just $38, you get about an hour and a half of gentle sailing, combined with a thoughtfully curated tasting experience of Dutch cheeses paired with complimentary wines. The meeting point is right in front of the Anne Frank House, a location that adds a touch of historical resonance to your evening, with the boat departing at 8:00 pm.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing? First, the carefully selected cheeses from “Kaasbar Amsterdam,” managed by the son of Holland’s largest cheese supplier, promise authentic flavors straight from Dutch farms. Second, the pairings with small-batch wines sourced directly from passionate winemakers ensure a genuine tasting experience that complements the cheeses without overwhelming them.

One thing to consider: the cruise is relatively short, so it’s more about the atmosphere and tasting than a comprehensive sightseeing tour. It’s best suited for those looking for a relaxed, intimate experience rather than a full-blown day of sightseeing. This cruise particularly appeals to couples, food lovers, and anyone eager to enjoy a leisurely, intimate evening on the water with good company and authentic flavors.

Key Points

• Authentic Tasting: Carefully curated Dutch cheeses paired with wines from small winemakers.
• Beautiful Settings: Cruising past UNESCO canals, the Magere Brug, NEMO Science Museum, and Amsterdam’s Central Station.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Friendly skipper and hospitable staff create a cozy vibe.
• Convenient Timing: Evening departure at 8:00 pm suits travelers looking for a relaxed night activity.
• Authentic Experience: Focused on quality, local products, and stunning canal views.
• Value for Money: At $38, it’s a memorable experience with a lot of sensory pleasure packed into 90 minutes.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Setting

The cruise begins in front of the Anne Frank House, a location that adds a meaningful note to your journey. As you board, the friendly crew—especially noted as “Captain Braots” in reviews—sets a welcoming tone. The boat itself is cozy, creating an intimate space where conversation flows easily and the ambiance feels relaxed.

Cruising in the evening means you’ll see Amsterdam’s lighting cast a warm glow over the city’s famous canals and historic architecture. It’s the kind of scene that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a living postcard.

The Canal Route – A Visual Feast

This cruise takes you along Herengracht, one of Amsterdam’s most iconic canals, lined with historic buildings and picturesque bridges. You’ll pass by Unesco World Heritage-listed canals—a highlight for anyone interested in the city’s unique layout—and gain a different perspective of Amsterdam’s vibrant neighborhoods from the water.

From the boat, you’ll glimpse the Magere Brug—the “Skinny Bridge”—which is especially magical when lit at night. The view of the NEMO Science Museum from the water offers a striking contrast between the modern and the historic. Passing the Central Station, the city’s bustling transportation hub, adds a lively touch to your tranquil cruise.

The Food and Drink Experience

The real highlight? The Dutch cheeses. Sources from “Kaasbar Amsterdam,” these cheeses are aged to perfection, with flavors carefully chosen to showcase the best of Dutch dairying. Expect cheeses with distinct flavor profiles, including traditional favorites and perhaps some lesser-known varieties.

Paired with these cheeses, the wines—sourced from small winemakers—are described as delicious and perfectly suited to enhance each bite. Reviewers particularly enjoyed the quality and variety of the wines, noting that the explanations provided added to the experience.

The Atmosphere and Service

Multiple reviews praise the friendly, hospitable staff and the relaxed atmosphere created by the crew. Captain Braots, in particular, is mentioned as creating a cozy, welcoming environment that makes it easy to unwind. The small group size (maximum 44 travelers) ensures plenty of opportunity for interaction and personal attention.

This cruise is not about frills or sightseeing interruptions; it’s about enjoying good company, delicious flavors, and the scenic beauty of Amsterdam’s canals. As one reviewer put it, “It was a relaxing boat tour along the main canals, just long enough, just enough information about the local sites, not too much boring detail.”

Timing and Practical Details

Starting at 8:00 pm, the cruise fits nicely into an evening plan—whether you’re wrapping up a day of sightseeing or seeking a peaceful night activity. The tour is accessible via public transportation, making it easy to reach the meeting point at Prinsengracht 263.

Since the tour lasts about 90 minutes, it’s a manageable way to experience the city’s waterways without feeling rushed. The small group size helps maintain an intimate, personalized vibe—perfect for couples or small groups of friends.

Price and Overall Value

At $38, the cruise offers excellent value—combining scenic views, a curated tasting, and the company of friendly guides. Considering the quality of the cheeses and wines, the cozy atmosphere, and the stunning canal vistas, many find it a worthwhile expense. It’s an experience that combines cultural authenticity with sensory delight without breaking the bank.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is an ideal choice for food lovers, romantic couples, and those wanting a relaxed way to see Amsterdam at night. It’s especially suited if you appreciate well-selected local products and enjoy a cozy, intimate setting. If you’re looking for a lively party or a comprehensive sightseeing tour, this may not be your best option. However, for a mellow, authentic taste of the city’s flavors and scenery, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting Cruise offers a charming blend of scenic canal views, delicious local flavors, and warm hospitality. It is a perfect short evening activity that allows you to unwind and indulge in some of the best Dutch cheeses paired with small-batch wines.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience with authentic local products, this cruise delivers on all fronts. It’s a cozy, flavorful, and memorable way to see Amsterdam’s waterways and enjoy a taste of Dutch culture.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is designed to be enjoyable for adults of all ages who appreciate good food and scenic views.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable and enjoyable short activity.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise, cheeses from Kaasbar Amsterdam, and wines sourced from small winemakers.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
At Prinsengracht 263 in Amsterdam, right in front of the Anne Frank House.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to access.

What kind of wines will I taste?
The wines are carefully selected from small, passionate winemakers to complement the Dutch cheeses.

Can I bring children?
The tour is primarily designed for adults, and most travelers are likely to be adults enjoying the tasting; check with the provider if you have specific questions about children.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the cruise is on a boat, bad weather might affect the experience. Check the provider’s cancellation policy if weather is a concern.

This cozy cruise combines the best of Amsterdam’s scenic waterways with flavorful local cheeses and wines, making it a memorable evening for those looking to enjoy the city’s culture and flavors in a relaxed setting.