Amsterdam: Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks

When you’re in Amsterdam during Kings Day, the city turns into one giant celebration filled with music, orange outfits, and lively street parties. This Kingsday Party Cruise offers a fantastic way to experience the festivities from a different perspective — the calm and comfort of a boat gliding through the canals. For $85 per person, you get 1.5 hours of lively cruising, complete with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, all while avoiding the chaos of the streets.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines spectacular canal views with a fun, relaxed atmosphere. You get front-row seats to the biggest street parties, but from the water — a perfect balance of energy and comfort. Also, the friendly crew and the live guide bring extra warmth and local insights, making the experience more engaging.

A small consideration is that the cruise doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transport to and from the departure point. This experience suits those who want to enjoy Kings Day without fighting the crowds on the streets, and it’s especially perfect for travelers who love lively parties, scenic views, and social drinks in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

Unique Water Perspective: Enjoy the biggest Kings Day celebrations from the calm of the canal, not the crowded streets.
All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks mean you can relax and toast the day.
Knowledgeable Guide: A friendly live guide helps you understand and enjoy the celebration better.
Short and Sweet: At 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable, fun-sized experience during a busy festival day.
Great for Socializing: The lively atmosphere onboard makes it easy to meet fellow travelers.
Limited Spots: Book early to secure your place on this popular cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What to Expect

Celebrating Kings Day on a canal cruise offers a fresh way to soak up the city’s festive spirit. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the cheerful vibe — the crew is typically friendly, and the atmosphere lively. The cruise lasts for about 90 minutes, with some departures stretching to 2 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the views and drinks without feeling rushed.

The route takes you through Amsterdam’s iconic canals, offering eye-catching views of historic canal houses and the vibrant street parties floating by on colorful boats. Many reviews mention the front-row view as a highlight, giving a close-up look at the floats, street performers, and the crowds celebrating in true Dutch style.

Drinks, included in your ticket, keep the party energized. You can sip on ice-cold beer, wine, or soft drinks while taking in the sights. It’s a perfect way to relax and mingle, especially on a hot Kings Day. Reviewers have raved about the excellent service and very cold drinks, which makes a huge difference on a sunny, bustling day.

The guide is generally very knowledgeable, sharing insights into the event’s history and local customs. One reviewer, ANCA DANIELA, praised the skipper, Jasper, for his professionalism and emphasis on safety, adding a layer of trust and comfort that enhances the experience.

During the cruise, you’ll pass by party boats, lively street scenes, and historic landmarks, all from a peaceful vantage point. This perspective allows you to enjoy the vibrant energy of Kings Day without the hassle of navigating through crowds or dealing with street closures.

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The Itinerary: A Detailed Breakdown

While the tour is straightforward, here’s what makes it special in practice:

Departure: You’ll need to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Check availability as times can vary.
Boarding: Once on board, the crew welcomes you with a friendly attitude. The boat is designed for socializing, with enough space to relax and chat.
Cruising: As the boat glides through the canals, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the city’s finest sights. Expect lively music, cheerful conversations, and plenty of photo opportunities.
The Festivities: While the streets are filled with music, dancing, and street performers, your water-based vantage point offers a quieter, more comfortable way to observe the chaos.
Return: After roughly 90 minutes, the cruise ends at the starting point. Many guests find this a perfect length — long enough to enjoy the atmosphere but not so long that you get fatigued.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly and professional crew. ANCA DANIELA appreciated Jasper, the skipper, for prioritizing safety and keeping the drinks cold — vital on a hot day. Tracy shared that, “We loved being on the canals of Kings Day. It was hectic but great fun,” highlighting the unique perspective the cruise offers.

Baris called it a “very nice and exciting event,” recommending it to anyone coming during Kings Day. The positive feedback emphasizes that the cruise captures the essence of the celebration while offering a more relaxed way to enjoy it.

Why This Experience Provides Great Value

At $85, this cruise offers a balance of entertainment, comfort, and unique views. When you consider the unlimited drinks and the short duration, it becomes a cost-effective way to experience Kings Day differently. Compared to crowded street parties, this cruise provides a comfortable and social environment without missing out on the city’s visual spectacle.

Plus, the inclusion of a live guide adds educational and cultural layers, helping you appreciate the significance behind the festivities. This makes it not just a party but an immersive cultural experience.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who prefer relaxed social environments and want to avoid the crowds on the streets. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic views, lively atmospheres, and drinks without sacrificing comfort. It’s also well-suited for groups, couples, and solo travelers eager to meet others in a convivial setting.

However, it might not be suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as the experience involves being on a boat and doesn’t include hotel transfers.

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FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 due to the adult-oriented environment and alcohol consumption.

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

Are drinks alcohol-based?
Yes, the cruise includes unlimited beer and wine, along with soft drinks. It’s a lively, adult-friendly environment.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as per the available information.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Dress in orange if you want to blend into the celebrations.

Does the cruise run rain or shine?
Specific weather policies aren’t mentioned, but it’s wise to check with the operator if rain is expected.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with some departures possibly extending to 2 hours.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
The tour isn’t suitable for vegans, and no specific dietary options are mentioned.

What should I do if I arrive late?
Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure you don’t miss the departure, as tickets must be booked in advance.

Final Thoughts

The Amsterdam Kingsday Party Cruise with Drinks offers a lively, scenic, and relaxed way to experience one of the city’s most exciting festivals. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the vibrant celebrations without the hassle of crowded streets, all while sipping unlimited drinks and taking in the spectacular canal scenery.

The combination of friendly guides, front-row views, and authentic festival atmosphere makes this cruise a memorable part of any Kings Day visit. It’s especially appealing for those who love socializing, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a comfortable way to celebrate in true Amsterdam style.

While it isn’t suited for all ages or mobility levels, for most travelers looking to enjoy Amsterdam’s biggest party from a new angle, this cruise hits the mark — with good value, plenty of fun, and unforgettable views.