Amsterdam: Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks

This experience made our article of 3 Fantastic BBQ Experiences In Amsterdam.

Amsterdam: Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks – A Relaxed Way to See the City

If you’re looking for a way to experience Amsterdam’s iconic canals with a culinary twist, this private BBQ cruise might just be what you need. For $369 per person, you get two hours on the water, a personal chef preparing a delicious meal, and unlimited drinks. The cruise glides along the Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht, passing by hotspots like the Red Light District.

What we love about this experience is how it combines beautiful scenery, relaxed atmosphere, and really good food — especially the vegetarian options. It’s a great way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways without the crowds, all while indulging in a freshly cooked BBQ. The price reflects the intimacy and quality of the experience, making it a solid value for those wanting a private, personalized adventure rather than a large group tour.

One potential consideration is that music is no longer permitted on the canals due to new government restrictions. So, if you’re hoping for a lively playlist or a party atmosphere, this might be less of a focus here. But if you’re after a relaxed, intimate cruise with good food and drinks, this tour hits the mark perfectly.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate good food, prefer privacy, and want to see Amsterdam from a unique perspective while enjoying some quality time on the water. Perfect for romantic outings, special celebrations, or just a different way to explore the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience: You get your own boat and chef, avoiding crowded group tours.
• Scenic canal views: Pass through Amsterdam’s famous canals, including hotspots like the Red Light District.
• Freshly cooked BBQ: Enjoy a menu that includes both meat and vegetarian options.
• Unlimited drinks: Beer, wine, and soft drinks are included for a relaxed, carefree vibe.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and book now while paying later.
• Knowledgeable crew: Friendly guides who know the city and ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and How it Works

This cruise offers a two-hour journey through some of the most picturesque canals in Amsterdam, with your own private boat and personal chef. The departure point is conveniently located next to the Sea Palace Chinese restaurant, marked by crew in bright orange jackets. You’ll set off with a local skipper who not only navigates the waterways but also often provides tidbits about the city’s architecture and history.

The main highlights are the scenic views, the delicious food, and the refreshing drinks. The cruise is perfect for those who want a personalized experience, as it’s a private group — whether just a couple, a family, or a small gathering of friends. The live cooking on board adds an authentic, face-to-face element to the meal, and the menu options cater to meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully curated. As your boat glides along the Herengracht, you’ll pass historic buildings and fashionable houses that line the canals. The route also includes the Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht, giving you a broad view of the city’s famed waterways.

A highlight is passing through Amsterdam’s Red Light District, which adds a bit of the city’s vibrant atmosphere and history. During the cruise, your chef will prepare a barbecue on board, with live cooking that allows you to see the process and chat with the chef.

The Menu: What’s on Offer

The BBQ menu is quite comprehensive. Meat options include pepper steak, shashlik, chicken satay skewers, sausages, and hamburgers. The salads feature raw vegetables, potato salad, Russian and cucumber salads, complemented by a variety of sauces like garlic, cocktail, BBQ, and satay. Focaccia bread and herbed butter round out the meal.

Vegetarians aren’t left out: they get vegetarian satay, vegetable burgers, vegetarian chicken, and vegetable skewers. The salads and sauces remain the same, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

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The Drinks: Keep It Relaxed

The unlimited drinks included are a big plus. You can sip beer, wine, or soft drinks at your leisure, which makes this a very relaxed experience. Reviewers have specifically praised the quality of the wine selection and the generous amount of drinks.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers have highlighted the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the delicious BBQ. One said, “Vincent was great! Everybody was very helpful and friendly. Drinks and BBQ were great. We definitely will do it again!” Others appreciated the timeliness and smooth organization, noting that everything was on time and well taken care of.

Reviewers also loved the scenery: “Loved the whole trip—the views and the company,” one mentioned, emphasizing how the stunning canal views combined with good food and drinks made for a memorable outing. Several called it “absolutely worth the money” and a “perfect celebration”, especially for special occasions.

Value for Money

While $369 per person might seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included — a private boat, personal chef, live cooking, unlimited drinks, and an authentic, intimate experience. For travelers seeking a memorable, stress-free day that combines sightseeing with good eating and drinking, this tour offers great value.

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic, private outing, groups celebrating special occasions, or small families wanting a relaxed, fun experience. It’s also perfect for foodies who value fresh, well-prepared meals and the chance to see Amsterdam from its legendary canals. Since music is no longer played on the canals, it’s more suited to those who enjoy conversational atmosphere and scenic tranquility rather than a lively party scene.

This private BBQ cruise offers a unique blend of sightseeing and culinary delight that’s hard to beat in Amsterdam. The personalized nature, friendly guides, and high-quality food make it stand out from more generic canal tours. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re after an authentic, relaxed experience with a touch of luxury.

If you love good food, beautiful waterways, and prefer small, private groups, then this cruise is sure to satisfy. It’s especially well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a calm, scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Is the menu vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. You just need to request them at least 48 hours in advance.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks during the cruise.

Where do we meet?
The departure point is next to the Sea Palace Chinese restaurant, where crew members in orange jackets can be spotted.

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

Is this suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible.

Does the cruise include a guide?
Yes, there is a live guide who provides commentary in English and Dutch.

Is this tour private?
Absolutely, it’s designed for private groups, making it ideal for intimate gatherings.

In sum, this private BBQ cruise offers a delicious, scenic, and personalized way to experience Amsterdam’s waterways. It’s a well-reviewed, value-for-money option for those wanting a relaxed, authentic, and memorable outing on the canals.

You can check availability for your dates here: