Amsterdam: New & Original Aperol & Limoncello Spritz Cruise

Imagine drifting along Amsterdam’s iconic canals with a refreshing Spritz in hand, the sun warming your face, and a knowledgeable guide pointing out city secrets. That’s exactly what this Aperol & Limoncello Spritz cruise offers — a lively, intimate way to see the city from the water. For just $41 per person, you get a 60-minute journey on Amsterdam’s only Aperol Spritz bar on the water, complete with curated Italian bites and engaging commentary from your skipper.

Two things we particularly love about this experience: First, the small boat size means a cozy, less crowded atmosphere where you can genuinely relax and chat. Second, the highlight of passing through lesser-traveled canals gives you a fresh perspective on a city often seen from larger, busier tours. A potential consideration is that this cruise is for guests over 18, so it’s not suited for families with young children or those needing accessible options.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic way to explore Amsterdam’s waterways with a focus on good drinks, tasty bites, and engaging storytelling, this cruise is perfect. It’s especially suited for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a lively, social vibe combined with beautiful scenery.

Key Points

• Unique Waterway Experience: Cruise through both the UNESCO World Heritage Canal District and smaller, less-visited canals.
• Quality Drinks & Bites: Enjoy up to three drinks, including artisan Spritzes, wine, or non-alcoholic options, plus Italian snacks.
• Expert Commentary: Your skipper shares interesting facts and stories about Amsterdam’s landmarks and hidden corners.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Small boat size fosters a friendly, laid-back environment.
• Scenic Views: Perfect for sunny days, with excellent photo opportunities of classic bridges and canals.
• Age Restriction: Only for guests 18 and over, with no wheelchair access.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Amsterdam Aperol & Limoncello Spritz Cruise

Setting the Scene: A Canal Cruise with a Twist

When you think of Amsterdam, you probably picture its winding canals, historic gabled houses, and bustling bridges. This cruise puts a lively spin on that classic scene by focusing on relaxation, drinks, and local storytelling. At just 60 minutes, it’s a manageable and enjoyable way to add a different perspective to your visit, especially if you’re pressed for time but want a memorable experience.

The starting point is Pier 6, marked by the distinctive yellow flags and storefront. From there, you board one of Stromma’s open boats — small enough to access intimate, less-trafficked canals that larger boats can’t reach. This means you’ll see parts of the city most travelers miss — narrow side canals and hidden corners that reveal a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam.

The Itinerary and Sights

The cruise begins with the skipper, who acts as your guide, pointing out landmarks like the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) across the River Amstel. As you glide past the UNESCO-listed canal district, you’ll get a sense of what makes Amsterdam special: historic buildings, quaint houseboats, and lively neighborhoods. Since the boat passes through smaller canals, you’ll see a different, more peaceful side of the city, away from the crowds of the main waterways.

While the itinerary doesn’t specify exact stops, the focus is on scenic cruising and engaging commentary. The guide shares fascinating facts and city secrets, enriching your visual experience. During the trip, you’re encouraged to relax, sip your drink, and snack on the curated bites like olives and crostinis, which are all included.

Drinks and Food: Curated Italian Bites and Quality Spritzes

One of the biggest draws is the selection of drinks. You can choose from classic Aperol Spritzes, with options for rosé wine or non-alcoholic drinks. The drinks are described as quality, and reviews praise the “really yummy” aperol and the fun of having up to three drinks per person. This makes the cruise a delightful social event, perfect for unwinding after a morning of sightseeing or as a laid-back afternoon activity.

Complementing the drinks are complimentary Italian bites — olives, crostinis, and other curated snacks. These bites are simple but flavorful, adding to the convivial atmosphere. As Lena from the reviews mentions, “The bartender was super nice and really accommodating,” which suggests a friendly, welcoming environment.

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The Experience and Atmosphere

Expect a relaxed, lively vibe. The small boat size encourages interaction, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers or your guide. Emma’s review highlights the friendly host Jeremy and the overall positive mood. The atmosphere is perfect for those who enjoy informal, social experiences with a focus on scenery, drinks, and stories.

The guide’s commentary adds educational value without being overwhelming, giving you context about landmark sights and hidden stories, turning a simple cruise into a memorable mini-tour of the city.

Considerations and Limitations

While the experience shines in many ways, it’s important to note that it’s not accessible for everyone. The cruise explicitly states it’s not suitable for guests under 18 or those in wheelchairs, and no luggage or large bags are allowed onboard. This keeps the environment intimate and manageable but limits participation for some travelers.

Plus, since the cruise is only about 60 minutes, it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re hoping for a longer, more comprehensive tour, you might prefer other options.

Pricing and Value

At $41 per person, this cruise offers good value — especially when you consider the included drinks, snacks, and the small-group experience. Compared to larger canal tours, which can be busier and less personalized, this experience provides a cozy, relaxed alternative focused on quality over quantity.

The reviews echo this sentiment, with Jasmin saying, “We were really thrilled. The drinks were yummy and the guides were super friendly. We learned a lot about Amsterdam. The group isn’t too big. Totally recommend it.” This underscores the combination of value, intimacy, and informative content.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for adults seeking a laid-back, social experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy drinks, local stories, and intimate boat rides. Couples and friends will value the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to see the city from a different angle. It’s especially suitable on a sunny day when you can enjoy sitting in the open boat, soaking up the sun and scenery.

However, if you’re traveling with children, need wheelchair accessibility, or prefer a longer, more comprehensive tour, this might not be the best fit. It’s also great for those wanting a taste of Italy in the heart of Amsterdam, with its curated bites and spritzes.

The Sum Up: Why This Cruise Stands Out

This Aperol & Limoncello Spritz cruise offers a distinctive way to experience Amsterdam’s waterways. For a reasonable price, you get a charming, intimate boat ride through some of the most beautiful and lesser-known canals, combined with quality drinks, tasty bites, and stories that bring the city’s history and secrets to life.

While it’s not an all-day tour, its focus on relaxed socializing and scenic views makes it a memorable highlight of any visit. The small boat size and friendly guide create an environment where you feel like a guest at a friends’ gathering — perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun.

If you’re after a genuine, laid-back experience that highlights Amsterdam’s scenic waterways and offers a taste of Italy’s aperitivo culture, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for adults looking for a lively, social outing, who appreciate good drinks, authentic bites, and engaging storytelling on a beautiful boat.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
No, this cruise is only for guests aged 18 and over. It’s designed for adults who want to enjoy drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can I bring large bags or luggage onboard?
No, large bags and luggage are not allowed on the boat, to ensure safety and comfort for all guests.

Is there wheelchair access?
No, this tour does not provide wheelchair access, so travelers with mobility challenges should consider other options.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts about 60 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that fits into a busy itinerary.

What drinks are included?
Guests can enjoy up to three drinks, including varying types of Spritz, rosé wine, or non-alcoholic options, depending on your preference.

Are food options available?
Yes, complimentary Italian bites such as olives and crostinis are included, offering a tasty snack to accompany your drinks.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The starting point is Pier 6, marked by yellow flags and a yellow storefront. Look for the Canal Tours Amsterdam flags.

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

This cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, social interaction, and authentic flavor — a perfect way to unwind and see Amsterdam from a different perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: