Amsterdam: Luxury Boat Cruise Unlimited Cocktails, Beers & Wines

Imagine gliding quietly through Amsterdam’s iconic canals aboard a sleek, electric boat, with a refreshing drink in hand and friendly guides sharing stories about this historic city. For just $34.18 per person, you get a one-hour VIP experience that combines comfort, fun, and a taste of local hospitality. Led by personable crew members, this cruise offers an intimate atmosphere—capped at 15 guests—that’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet lively way to see the city’s top sights.

Two things we particularly love: first, the personalized attention from the crew, making the experience feel exclusive and friendly; second, the all-inclusive drinks—from expertly crafted cocktails to Dutch beers and wines—that keep the atmosphere festive. The cozy covered boat, with blankets available, makes it suitable even in cooler months, ensuring comfort while you soak in views of landmarks like the Hermitage, the Skinny Bridge, and the Maritime Museum.

One possible consideration is the duration—an hour can feel a bit quick, especially if you’re a history buff eager for more commentary or a longer cruise. Also, occasionally, reviews mention the timing and service around the open bar, with some guests wishing for a smoother, more consistent flow of drinks.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, social experience that combines sightseeing with a generous drinks package. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion in a luxurious, friendly setting. If you enjoy good company, good drinks, and getting to know a city from its waterways, you’ll find this cruise well worth the price.

Key Points

• Small-Group Experience: Limited to 15 guests for personalized service.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited cocktails, beers, wines, and Dutch cheese snacks.
• Famous Landmarks: Cruises pass by notable sights like the Hermitage, Skinny Bridge, and Maritime Museum.
• Comfort & Convenience: Cozy covered boat with blankets, contactless payment, and easy boarding behind Krasnapolsky Hotel.
• Expert Guides: Fun facts and live commentary enhance the sightseeing.
• Value for Money: Combining sightseeing and drinks at a reasonable price makes it a popular choice.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This luxury canal cruise offers a one-hour ride through some of Amsterdam’s most picturesque waterways. You’ll board behind the Krasnapolsky Hotel on Dam Square—a prime starting point that’s easy to reach via public transportation. Once aboard, you’ll settle into comfortable cushions on a deluxe electric boat, which glides quietly through the canals, providing a serene alternative to the traditional noisy motor boats.

The small-group setting means you’ll get more personal attention from the crew, who are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They’re also quick to provide blankets if the weather turns chilly, a thoughtful touch that keeps guests cozy even in cooler months.

The Sights and Commentary

Your route takes you past Amsterdam’s iconic landmarks, including the Hermitage Museum, the famous Skinny Bridge, and the Maritime Museum. The guides share fun facts—a highlight according to reviews—that bring these sights to life and add context beyond just pretty views.

While some reviews mention the cruise feeling a bit short, most agree the informative commentary and scenic views make up for it. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the city’s lights sparkling on the water as dusk falls, creating a magical atmosphere.

Drinks, Snacks, and Atmosphere

What makes this cruise special is the all-you-can-drink bar. You’ll start with a welcome cocktail—often a signature gin tonic featuring the local ‘Damrak Gin’—and then enjoy unlimited access to a selection of cocktails, beers, and wines. Soft drinks and Dutch cheeses are also included, making it a well-rounded experience for your palate.

Reviewers rave about the quality of the drinks; many mention the cocktails, especially “Friendship in a Storm,” as being strong and tasty. However, a few noted that during their cruise, the service could be a bit more seamless, with some guests needing to request drinks more than once.

The Food and Extras

Dutch cheeses and snacks are included on the open bar ticket, adding a savory touch to your cruise. Though some reviews mention disappointment about the cheese not always being served, most guests appreciate the gesture. The availability of blankets and the cozy covered boat make this experience comfortable, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 22 travelers (usually capped at 15), this cruise remains intimate. You’ll likely get to chat with fellow travelers and share the experience, making it perfect for small groups or couples seeking a friendly, social vibe. Booking is typically done 14 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour
• Price: $34.18 per person, including drinks and snacks
• Start point: Behind Krasnapolsky Hotel, Dam Square
• Availability: Near public transportation, making it easy to reach
• Cancellation: Free cancel up to 24 hours in advance, helpful if weather or plans change last minute

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about Amsterdam’s canals and history. One guest mentioned it as “the highlight of our visit,” emphasizing how the experience makes sightseeing feel more personal and relaxed.

Guests also praised the quality of drinks and the friendly attitude of hosts like Max, Lena, Diarmaid, and Sven. Even on rainy days, the boat’s covered design kept the experience enjoyable, with guests noting the crew’s attentiveness to weather concerns.

However, some found the service around the drinks somewhat inconsistent, and a few wished for a slightly longer cruise or a broader route that included smaller canals. Still, these are minor compared to the overall positive reviews and the value it offers.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those who want a luxurious, relaxed way to see Amsterdam’s main sights without the rush. It appeals to travelers craving a social atmosphere with good drinks and friendly guides. It’s also a good option for celebrations or romantic outings—the cozy boat and sparkling city lights create a memorable setting.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth historical tour or a longer experience, you might find this one a bit brief. But if your priority is a fun, scenic, and well-catered water adventure, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. The boat is covered and has blankets, so you’ll stay dry and warm if it’s cold or rainy.

How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 22, but most bookings are capped at 15, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

What drinks are included?
Guests enjoy unlimited cocktails, beers, wines, and soft drinks. The signature gin and tonics are particularly popular, along with Dutch cheeses.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour, which some guests find a bit short but still enough to enjoy the views and drinks.

Where do I board?
Board behind the Krasnapolsky hotel on Dam Square, which is easily accessible via public transportation.

Is there any tipping expected?
Tipping for the crew is optional; it’s appreciated but not mandatory.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably. If it’s chilly, blankets are provided, but bringing a jacket or layers is advisable.

Is this experience appropriate for children?
The tour is adult-focused, mainly because of the alcohol. Kids might enjoy the cruise, but it’s primarily designed for adults.

Final Thoughts

This luxury canal cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic views, engaging commentary, and unlimited drinks—all in a small-group setting that feels both exclusive and friendly. We’ve seen guests rave about the quality of their drinks, the knowledge of the guides, and the stunning city views at sunset or dusk.

While it may not be the longest or the most history-heavy tour, it excels at creating a relaxed, convivial environment that captures the spirit of Amsterdam’s waterways. It’s especially well suited for travelers wanting a fun, intimate experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

If you value good company, excellent drinks, and scenic waterways, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s a perfect way to cap off a day of sightseeing or kick off an evening in the Dutch capital.

To sum it up, for a luxurious, enjoyable, and well-priced introduction to Amsterdam’s canals, this small-group cruise hits all the right notes. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to see the city from a different perspective, it’s a memorable way to experience the charm of Amsterdam’s waterways.