Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour, All Inclusive

Imagine drifting through Amsterdam’s charming, lesser-known waterways, with a glass of wine or beer in hand, cheese tasting on your palate, and a lively guide sharing stories that bring the city’s history to life. For just $34 per person, this 60-minute all-inclusive boat tour offers a delightful blend of relaxation, local flavor, and authentic sights. Led by personable guides, this experience promises intimacy on a quiet electric boat that navigates the narrowest, most scenic canals that larger boats simply can’t reach.

What we love about this tour is the personalized storytelling—the guides make the experience engaging and friendly, making you feel like you’re exploring the city with a knowledgeable local friend. Plus, the chance to taste real Dutch cheese while sipping unlimited drinks is a fun, satisfying touch. The eco-friendly aspect of cruising on a 100% electric vessel is another plus, aligning with sustainability without sacrificing comfort.

One consideration to keep in mind is the lack of wheelchair accessibility and no onboard toilet, which can be important for some travelers. But overall, this tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, convivial way to see Amsterdam’s hidden corners and enjoy some genuine local flavors—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups craving an intimate experience with authentic stories.

Key Points

• Personalized Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides tell engaging stories about Amsterdam’s history and hidden gems.
• Exclusive Canals: Access to smaller, less crowded waterways offers a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path view of the city.
• All-Inclusive Drinks & Cheese: Unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, plus Dutch cheese make for a delicious, relaxed cruise.
• Eco-Friendly Cruising: The electric boat ensures a quiet, pollution-free experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Cushioned seating with panoramic views, pet-friendly, but no wheelchair access or onboard toilet.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: What to Expect and Why It Matters

When we think about sightseeing in Amsterdam, the canal network naturally comes to mind. This tour offers a fresh take—a 60-minute ride through a selection of the city’s lesser-known waterways—taken aboard a boat designed to slip into narrow, quiet canals inaccessible to larger vessels. As you settle onto the comfortable cushioned seats, the skipper and live guide begin weaving stories. These aren’t just dry facts; they’re lively anecdotes that make the city’s stones and bridges come alive.

The itinerary is simple but thoughtfully curated. The boat glides past historic buildings, charming bridges, and secret spots that most travelers miss. Expect to see Amsterdam from a perspective that’s both intimate and picturesque—unobstructed views of charming facades, quiet corners, and the gentle sway of the water.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on authentic experiences. For just $34, you get three drinks included—choices of beer, wine, soft drinks, or a premium cocktail if you upgrade. The Dutch cheese served is a snack rather than a full meal, but it pairs beautifully with your drinks and adds a local flavor to the cruise. Several reviews highlight how delicious the cheese is and how the drinks complement the scenery.

The personal stories shared by guides like Angela, who was praised for being both funny and knowledgeable, enrich the experience. They offer insights into the city’s history, architecture, and customs, making the cruise more than just a sightseeing ride—it’s an educational, lively social event.

We also appreciate the eco-conscious design—the boat is 100% electric, which means smooth, quiet cruising without emissions. This environmentally friendly approach is a thoughtful touch for eco-aware travelers.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The cruise begins at the dock next to the Bulldog Hotel, conveniently located on Oudezijds Voorburgwal. From there, the boat departs into some of Amsterdam’s more hidden waterways, avoiding the broader, busier canals. This route allows you to see parts of the city that are often overlooked, providing a more authentic, local perspective of Amsterdam’s architecture and daily life.

As the boat navigates these narrow passages, the guide points out historic buildings and bridges, sharing stories that make the sights come alive. Reviewers like Amely describe their experience as “very fun and interesting,” highlighting the guide’s ability to share stories that add context and personality to the views.

The cheese and drinks are served during the cruise, with three included options. Travelers might find that the quality of the cheese and the variety of drinks make for a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. The unlimited drinks add to the laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding with friends or a romantic partner.

At the end of the hour, the boat returns to the original dock, leaving you with a sense of having discovered a side of Amsterdam often missed by larger, more commercial tours.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $34 per person, this tour offers great value—especially considering the all-inclusive drinks and cheese. The price point makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers looking for a fun and relaxed way to experience the city without breaking the bank.

In terms of duration, an hour flies by as you glide past beautiful scenery, listen to engaging stories, and sip your drinks. It’s a perfect length for a light afternoon activity or as a break between sightseeing obligations.

However, it’s worth noting that the boat is not wheelchair accessible and there’s no onboard toilet—common limitations for small, intimate boats. The step into the boat can be fairly sizable, so travelers with mobility concerns should be aware.

Booking is flexible—reserve and pay later—which suits travelers who want to keep plans fluid. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

The laid-back, friendly atmosphere is a big draw. As Ashley notes, “Angela was both funny and knowledgeable,” reflecting the personal touch guides bring to the experience. The small group size and intimate setting foster a social environment—perfect for making new friends or enjoying a cozy date.

The unobstructed views, combined with live narration and local stories, mean you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of Amsterdam’s character. The cheese and unlimited drinks turn this into a delightful tasting journey.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, authentic side of Amsterdam. It’s perfect if you enjoy local flavors, engaging stories, and scenic waterways without the hustle and bustle of crowded boats. Travelers with an interest in local culture and good drinks will find it especially appealing.

Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a cozy, informal activity will appreciate the personal touch of this tour. If you’re looking for a fun, affordable, and eco-friendly cruise that showcases Amsterdam’s quieter corners, this tour hits the spot.

The Sum Up

The Cheese & Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour offers a relaxed, authentic way to see a different side of the city. With friendly guides, delicious Dutch cheese, unlimited drinks, and access to hidden canals, it combines scenic beauty with cultural flavor—all at a very reasonable price. The eco-conscious boat and personal stories make it a memorable experience, especially for those wanting something intimate and engaging.

While it might not be suitable for everyone—given the steps and lack of wheelchair access—it’s a perfect choice for small groups, couples, and solo travelers craving a chill, authentic Amsterdam experience. If you’re after a low-key, fun, and tasty way to explore the city’s waterways, this tour will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the lack of onboard facilities and steps into the boat might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that doesn’t require a big time commitment.

Are drinks and cheese included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes three drinks (beer, wine, or soft drinks), and real Dutch cheese is served as a snack.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the boat is not wheelchair accessible and involves a fairly sizable step to board, so it may not suit travelers with mobility limitations.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 232, next to the Bulldog Hotel, and ends at the same location.

Is this tour pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are welcome onboard, making it suitable for travelers wanting to bring along their furry friends.

What language are the guides in?
Guides speak Dutch and English, ensuring clear narration for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather, as the tour takes place rain or shine. The boat is covered but not fully enclosed, so bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

How many people typically join?
The tour is intimate and small-group, but specific group size isn’t stated. You can expect a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

This tour is a charming, affordable way to enjoy Amsterdam from a different angle—perfect for those who value local flavors, scenic waterways, and a relaxed, social vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here: