Haarlem: 90-minute Beer Tasting Cruise

Haarlem: 90-minute Beer Tasting Cruise — A Gentle Dive into the City’s Canals and Craft

If you’re looking to get a quick, charming glimpse of Haarlem’s scenic canals and enjoy some local brews, the 90-minute beer tasting cruise offers a relaxed introduction. At $84, this experience combines a scenic boat ride with a tasting of regional beers, all within a comfortable, casual setting. Starting from the Spaarne at 5:30 pm, it’s ideally suited for those short on time or wanting an easy, enjoyable way to familiarize themselves with Haarlem’s waterways before exploring on foot.

What we like most about this cruise is how it balances informative guided commentary with the laid-back ambiance of the canals. The audio guide enriches the ride with stories about Haarlem’s history, making it more than just a pretty view. Plus, the opportunity to sample local beers on board adds a local flavor that’s both tasty and memorable.

One consideration to keep in mind is the limited accessibility—reviews mention that wheelchair users might find it challenging, as the boats are not suitable for wheelchairs, a factor worth verifying if mobility is a concern. The cruise runs a bit infrequently, so planning ahead is advisable if you want to avoid long waits.

This cruise is perfect for first-time visitors, beer enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a gentle, scenic overview of Haarlem’s canals without the pressure of a more formal tour. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy local food and drink in a social setting, or if you’re simply looking for a fun, relaxed activity to kick off your Haarlem visit.

This experience made our article of The 14 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Haarlem.

Key Points

• Flexible Hop-on, Hop-off: Use your 24-hour pass to explore four central locations at your own pace.
• Guided Audio Tour: Learn about Haarlem’s history with engaging commentary during the cruise.
• Scenic Canal Views: Cruise through the city’s historic waterways, including the Spaarne River.
• Beer Tasting: Sample regional beers on board, adding a local touch to your sightseeing.
• Accessible Concerns: Not fully wheelchair accessible, so check your needs in advance.
• Infrequency of Boats: Some reviews note that boat departures can be spaced out, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Haarlem Beer Tasting Cruise

The Experience: What’s Included and What to Expect

For just over an hour and a half, this cruise offers a peaceful way to see Haarlem from the water, punctuated by the chance to taste some local brews. The departure point is at Spaarne 11A, near the “Boothuys” dock—a central and convenient location for most travelers. The cruise is operated by Haarlem – Smidtje Canal Cruises, and it features a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward.

Once aboard, you’re greeted with the opportunity to purchase food and drinks—though these are at your own expense—adding to the convivial atmosphere. The audio guide provides commentary on Haarlem’s history and architecture, turning a simple boat ride into an educational experience as well.

The Itinerary: Stops and Sights Along the Water

While the cruise itself is a single continuous ride, the hop-on hop-off element offers the flexibility to start from four different central locations, giving you the chance to plan around your schedule. The main departure point at Spaarne 11A is near key sights, and from there, the boat glides through Haarlem’s canals and along the Spaarne River.

Expect to see characteristic Dutch canal houses, historic bridges, and the lively waterside scenes that make Haarlem’s waterways so charming. The skipper, described as knowledgeable and hospitable in reviews, guides you through the old city’s watery corridors, sharing stories and insights that bring the sights to life.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Several reviews highlight the skipper’s expertise and friendly demeanor, with one noting the skipper did an “amazing job” being knowledgeable and welcoming. Others appreciate the relaxing pace and the good guide, making the trip feel like a casual, informative stroll through Haarlem’s history.

However, some reviews point out infrequent departures—with one mentioning they only saw the boat pass by twice during their day—so patience is needed if you’re planning around a specific schedule. Plus, a notable drawback is the lack of wheelchair accessibility, which might exclude some travelers from fully enjoying the cruise.

Food and Drinks: Simple but Enjoyable

Onboard, you can purchase food and drinks, which is nice if you want to pair your beer tasting with some local snacks or simply relax with a cold one while taking in the views. While reviews mention the beers are good, the emphasis is more on the experience rather than gourmet offerings.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At $84, the cruise isn’t the cheapest activity in Haarlem, but it offers value in its combination of scenic views, local beer, and cultural insights. If you’re someone who enjoys casual, social experiences and appreciates a good story with your sip, this cruise hits the spot. On top of that, the 24-hour hop-on hop-off feature allows you to tailor your day—whether you want a quick ride or multiple stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who want a laid-back, scenic introduction to Haarlem, especially if they’re interested in local craft beers. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting an easy way to see the city’s waterways without strenuous walking, and for those who enjoy informative commentary and a friendly atmosphere. However, if you require full accessibility, or prefer a more frequent schedule, you might want to consider other options or verify the specifics with the operator beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Haarlem 90-minute Beer Tasting Cruise offers a charming way to combine sightseeing with a taste of local culture. The guided commentary and scenic waterways provide a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, perfect for easing into your Haarlem adventure. While the experience might not be suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility concerns or strict schedules—it’s a solid choice for those wanting an authentic, enjoyable introduction to the city’s waterways and craft beer scene.

For beer lovers, casual explorers, and first-timers, this cruise delivers good value and memorable moments. Just remember to plan ahead for departure times, and double-check accessibility if needed. With its friendly guides and scenic views, it’s a memorable little voyage into Haarlem’s canals that sets the tone for a delightful visit.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, offering a leisurely way to enjoy Haarlem’s waterways at a relaxed pace.

Can I hop on and off at different locations?
Yes, you can use your 24-hour pass to hop on and off at four central locations around Haarlem, giving you flexibility in how you explore.

Is food and drink included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but they are not included in the ticket price.

Is this accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, reviews note that the boats are not suitable for wheelchairs, so accessibility may be limited.

What time does the cruise start?
The main departure is at 5:30 pm from Spaarne 11A, but check with the operator for specific schedules and frequency.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers and families can participate, but always check specifics if traveling with young children or infants.

How much does it cost?
The ticket price is $84, which provides a scenic canal cruise with beer tasting and audio-guided commentary.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available via Viator and can be accessed with a mobile ticket for convenience.

In sum, this Haarlem canal cruise combines the charm of Dutch waterways with a light-hearted beer tasting, ideal for a laid-back introduction to the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new way to enjoy Haarlem’s waters, it offers a relaxed and authentic slice of the city’s vibrant life.