Amsterdam: The Original Flower Boat with Local Guide and Bar

Amsterdam: The Original Flower Boat with Local Guide and Bar is a delightful way to see the city from its famed canals for just $23 per person. This cruise, operated by Starboard Boats, takes you on an intimate journey through Amsterdam’s waterways, where you’ll learn about the city’s blooming history and snap plenty of photos along the way. It’s a short, 45-minute trip that combines scenic beauty with storytelling—a perfect pick for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience.

What we really love about this tour is how it emphasizes Amsterdam’s floral heritage, making the sightseeing more colorful and meaningful. The boat itself is decorated with flowers, creating a charming backdrop that’s ideal for photos. Plus, the local guides—whose enthusiasm and stories often earn glowing reviews—bring the city’s history to life in a friendly, approachable way. Another big plus is the bar on board, where you can purchase drinks, adding a layer of comfort and socializing to your cruise.

A small consideration is that the tour takes place on an open boat, so if the weather isn’t cooperating—say, a rainy day—you’ll want to be prepared with rain gear, even though umbrellas are provided. Also, since the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, those with mobility issues might need to look elsewhere. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic, laid-back tours with engaging storytelling and good photo opportunities, especially if you’re fond of flowers and charming boat designs.

This experience made our article of Which Amsterdam Drinking Tours To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks.

Key Points

• Unique Focus on Flowers: The boat’s floral theme and stories about Amsterdam’s connection to blossoms make it stand out.
• Engaging Local Guides: Visitors rave about knowledgeable, friendly guides who provide interesting insights.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: The flower-decorated boat and canal views are perfect for capturing memories.
• Affordable Price Point: At $23, it offers great value for a relaxing, scenic experience.
• Optional Drinks on Board: The bar allows you to enjoy a drink while taking in the views.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, and weather can affect the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Setting

From the moment you find your guide in the blue Starboard Boats outfits, you’ll realize this is no ordinary canal cruise. The flower boat itself is a visual treat—covered in vibrant blooms that set a cheerful, almost whimsical tone for the trip. You’ll board at the designated meeting point, ideally 10 minutes early, to settle in and get ready for a 45-minute journey through some of Amsterdam’s most iconic canals.

This cruise is designed to be intimate, with a small group size that encourages interaction and questions. As you glide through the canals, you’ll pass landmarks and scenic spots that everyone wants to photograph. The boat’s design—elegant yet playful—becomes a perfect backdrop for selfies and group shots, making it clear why many reviews describe it as “the prettiest boat in town.”

The Guide’s Role and Stories

The heart of this experience is the local guide, whose enthusiasm and storytelling bring Amsterdam’s colorful past to life. Reviewers mention guides like Dorien, Onno, and Lu as being friendly, knowledgeable, and able to blend interesting facts with personal anecdotes. Their stories include Amsterdam’s historical connection to flowers, particularly tulips, and the romantic tale of the Amsterdam Flower Bike Man—a narrative that adds a romantic, cultural layer to the cruise.

Several travelers appreciate the guides’ ability to tailor the experience, spending time one-on-one, sharing lesser-known facts, and answering questions. One reviewer particularly praised how the guide’s friendly banter made the entire trip feel relaxed and natural.

The Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

As you cruise the canals, you’ll enjoy views of Amsterdam’s historic architecture, charming bridges, and the vibrant flower boat itself. The boat’s picturesque floral interior creates a fairy-tale atmosphere, making it a magnet for photos. Reviewers have captured stunning images, with some describing the boat as “just as beautiful in reality as in pictures.”

The route is designed to showcase the city’s most photogenic spots, with plenty of opportunity to stop, ask questions, or just soak in the scenery. Since the boat is open, you’ll get unobstructed views, although on very windy or rainy days, some passengers note that higher sides can slightly limit visibility.

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The Bar and Refreshments

The well-stocked bar is a highlight for many, offering a variety of drinks for purchase—wine, beer, soda, and even some small treats. Several travelers mention how nice it is to sip a cold drink while floating past Amsterdam’s picturesque facades. Prices are reasonable, especially compared to local bars, and the bar staff are friendly and efficient.

If you opt for the additional drinks package, you’ll find it’s well worth the extra for the relaxed vibe it creates. Several reviews highlight that enjoying a drink while watching the city go by adds a layer of comfort and enjoyment.

The Romantic and Social Side

Many travelers comment on how perfect this cruise is for couples or small groups. The flower-decorated boat, coupled with the engaging storytelling, creates a romantic atmosphere—perfect for a first date, anniversary, or just a peaceful afternoon. As one reviewer put it, “The boat was very nice, filled with flowers. My girlfriend loved it and took a lot of pictures.”

It’s also an ideal activity for families or friends who want a quiet, scenic experience without the hustle of larger, more crowded tours. The small group size and personalized approach help make this a memorable, less rushed outing.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the experience generally receives high praise, a few practical points are worth noting. The tour takes place on an open boat, so during rainy or windy weather, your comfort depends on proper clothing and rain gear—though umbrellas are provided. If you’re seeking a very accessible experience, this might not be suitable, as it’s not wheelchair friendly.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. The price, at $23, offers excellent value considering the intimate setting, engaging guides, and the chance to see the city from a different angle.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for photo lovers, flower enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxing, storytelling-focused experience. If you appreciate charming aesthetics and authentic local stories, this is a charming way to see Amsterdam’s canals. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy smaller groups and engaging guides, as the reviews consistently highlight the personable and knowledgeable hosts.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a highly structured or audio-guided experience, since the tour relies heavily on personal interaction and is conducted on a fully open boat.

Final Thoughts

For just about $23, you get a beautiful, flower-covered boat, engaging stories from passionate guides, and excellent photo opportunities—all set against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s iconic canals. The experience offers a gentle, authentic glimpse into the city’s floral heritage and romantic stories, making it a lovely addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise with a local touch—and don’t mind a bit of weather—this is likely to be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially worthwhile if you want to combine the joy of beautiful sights with the warmth of good stories and the chance to unwind.

For those who value small-group intimacy, friendly guides, and a dash of floral magic, this cruise hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children are generally welcome, the experience is best suited for those who can sit quietly on a boat and enjoy the storytelling. The small size and peaceful atmosphere make it a gentle outing for families.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a manageable and relaxing activity without taking up too much of your day.

Can I buy drinks on the boat?
Yes, there is a well-stocked bar where you can purchase drinks like wine, beer, and soda. Prices are reasonable, and several reviewers mention the pleasure of sipping a drink while floating through the canals.

Is the boat fully covered?
No, the boat is fully open, so weather conditions can affect your comfort. Umbrellas are provided on rainy days, but dressing appropriately is recommended.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted on this tour, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with animals.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

In essence, Amsterdam’s Flower Boat cruise offers a charming, affordable way to see the city from its canals, enriched by storytelling and floral beauty. It’s a practical, authentic experience that will appeal most to those who appreciate scenic views, local stories, and a touch of elegance on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: