Amsterdam isn’t just about tulips and bikes; it’s a city built on water, with over 100 kilometers of canals that wind through its historic streets. This makes cruises and boat tours one of the best ways to see the city from a different angle — floating past the ornate gabled houses, iconic bridges, and lively neighborhoods. Whether you prefer a classic daytime cruise, a romantic evening ride, or a quirky themed tour, Amsterdam’s waterways offer something for all. We particularly love the Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine for its relaxed pace and panoramic views, and the Light Festival Boat for its magical illuminated art installations.
For travelers looking to combine sightseeing with a taste of local culture, many tours include commentary, snacks, or drinks — sometimes all at once. With options ranging from budget-friendly cruises to luxury night rides, Amsterdam makes it easy to enjoy its canals at any price point or interest.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of cruise styles: classic daytime boat trips, romantic evening cruises, themed tours like the Light Festival, and even the unique “smoke and booze” experience. Some include audio guides and commentary, while others focus on drinks and socializing. Prices range from about $16 per person for a straightforward city-centre cruise to around $47 for combined art and museum experiences. Whether you want a quick hour or a relaxed afternoon, there’s a boat ride suited for your style.
1. Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Optional Cheese & Wine
At number one, this 1-hour covered canal cruise offers a perfect introduction to Amsterdam’s scenic waterways. Priced at just $19 per person, it boasts a 4.6/5 rating from over 25,000 reviews, making it a favorite among travelers. Starting at two convenient locations, the cruise passes highlights like the Maritime Museum, the Golden Bend, and the Anne Frank House.
What makes this cruise stand out is the interactive experience with friendly skippers and a hostess who can tell stories about the city’s sights. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city’s historic architecture and waterside neighborhoods, including the posh Amstel Hotel and the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge). Choose to upgrade with unlimited drinks and a cheese and wine package for a relaxing, indulgent experience. Since the boat is fully electric and covered, it’s suitable in all weather.
Bottom line: A great choice for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a quick, enjoyable overview of Amsterdam from the water without breaking the bank.
2. Amsterdam: Open Boat Cruise option Unlimited Drinks & Bite
Ranking just behind the top, this 1 to 1.5-hour cruise features a luxurious open boat with live narration from a local skipper. For around $30, you get to explore landmarks like the Maritime Museum and Anne Frank House, with the added bonus of unlimited drinks served from the onboard bar. The reviews highlight how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are, with visitors praising the friendly atmosphere and delicious drinks.
This tour is ideal for those who want a social, lively experience, often booking multiple rides — a testament to its popularity. The boat is electric, offering a smooth and eco-friendly ride through the canals. Guests love the informative commentary and the chance to relax with drinks in hand while floating past trendy neighborhoods.
Bottom line: Perfect for groups seeking a fun, social vibe with the convenience of unlimited drinks and a friendly guide.
3. Amsterdam: Evening Cruise with Optional Wine and Snacks
This 1.5-hour sunset cruise offers a chance to see Amsterdam bathed in golden light as the city lights start to flicker on. Starting at two locations, it passes scenic UNESCO canals, including the Westerkerk and Het Scheepvaartmuseum. The highlight is the magical nighttime view of illuminated canal houses and bridges, perfect for photos.
Guests rave about how relaxing and romantic the experience is, especially with wine and snacks available onboard. The boat is covered in case of rain, and the atmosphere is intimate yet lively. It’s an ideal choice for couples or anyone wanting to experience the city’s nighttime ambiance from the water.
Bottom line: A lovely way to enjoy Amsterdam at night, especially if you appreciate scenic views and a cozy environment.
4. Amsterdam: German Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option
Number four on our list takes you on a 1-hour guided tour with a native German-speaking guide. This German canal cruise stands out for its personal storytelling and the chance to relax on a modern, cozy boat. Pass by famous sights like the Magere Brug and explore hidden canals that many travelers miss.
Guests consistently praise the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guide, with reviews highlighting how much they learned about the city’s history and culture. Plus, the optional unlimited drinks add a leisurely touch to the experience. The tour includes photo stops at sites like the NEMO Science Museum and Hortus Botanicus—making it both educational and fun.
Bottom line: Ideal for history lovers or those wanting a more personalized tour with engaging storytelling and drinks.
5. Amsterdam: City Centre Canal Cruise including Audioguide
This 1-hour cruise offers a straightforward way to see the UNESCO World Heritage canal district. With audio guides in multiple languages, you’ll learn about the elegant houses, bridges, and churches lining the waterways. Multiple starting points make it flexible, and the $16 price makes it accessible for budget travelers.
Guests appreciate the informative narration that enhances the visual experience, providing insights into Amsterdam’s architecture and history. The cruise offers great photo opportunities of landmarks like the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum. It’s a good option for those wanting a short, educational outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts seeking a quick, informative tour at an affordable price.
6. Amsterdam: The Bulldog Boat Smoke and Booze Cruise
This 1-hour tour is for the adventurous — the only cruise that allows smoking weed and drinking alcohol onboard. Departing from Central Station or Leidseplein, it’s a laid-back, social experience with a half-open boat design. The perks include bringing your own snacks and weed, making it popular among a younger crowd.
Reviewers love the chill atmosphere and friendly staff. Many mention how the fun vibe makes it stand out from more traditional cruises. It’s a great option if you’re looking for an offbeat experience and don’t mind a more informal setting.
Bottom line: Best suited for party-goers or those wanting a casual, unconventional cruise with a relaxed atmosphere.
7. Amsterdam: History Cruise with Local Guide, Drinks & Bites
This 1.5-hour open boat cruise offers a laid-back vibe with live commentary from a local guide. It’s perfect for those who want to learn about Amsterdam’s culture while enjoying Dutch snacks and drinks. The guide is known for their friendly attitude and engaging stories, making it feel like a chat with a friend rather than a tour.
The route includes notable sights like Rembrandt House and the Waterlooplein Market, with picturesque views of the Grachtengordel. The friendly crew and fun atmosphere make it suitable for families and groups wanting a relaxed experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for those interested in local culture, fun stories, and snacks in a casual setting.
8. Amsterdam: Light Festival Boat with Unlimited Drinks & Snack
Number eight is a 75-minute cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival. This highly-rated cruise (4.5/5 from over 2,500 reviews) takes you through illuminated art installations across the canals. You’ll stay warm with blankets and enjoy live storytelling about the artworks, with unlimited drinks available from the onboard bar.
This experience is perfect if you want to see Amsterdam in a different light—literally. The art pieces transform the cityscape into a magical world of light and color. The hot chocolate, beer, wine, and snacks are appreciated extras.
Bottom line: Best for art lovers and those wanting an enchanting, festive atmosphere during the Light Festival.
9. Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise With Unlimited Drinks Option
Rated 4.6/5 from 1,854 reviews, this 1-hour cruise offers a relaxed way to see Amsterdam’s famous canals. Starting near Oudezijds Voorburgwal, it features unlimited drinks and a partly covered boat — ideal for drizzly evenings. The cruise passes key landmarks like Prinsengracht and Herengracht, with commentary explaining the sights.
Many reviews mention how calm and scenic the experience is, making it great for a chill evening. The free blankets and optional drinks help keep everyone comfortable, regardless of the weather.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for evening relaxation with drinks and easy sightseeing.
10. Amsterdam: Evening Pizza Cruise Along the Canals
This 1.5-hour cruise combines good food and great scenery. Starting at Damrak 16, it features hot pizza from NY-style eatery New York Pizza and unlimited drinks—wine, beer, or soft drinks. It’s a family-friendly and fun way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways.
Guests highlight the delicious pizza and friendly hosts as major selling points. The boat is heated and has Wi-Fi and toilets, making it comfortable for all ages. The tour passes landmarks like the Dancing Houses and NEMO Science Museum.
Bottom line: A fun, casual evening for food lovers and water enthusiasts alike, especially if you want a tasty, relaxed experience.
11. Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise and Rijksmuseum
Rounding out our list, this full-day experience combines a canal cruise with admission to the Rijksmuseum. For $47, you get a 1-hour cruise through the UNESCO-listed canals plus access to world-famous artworks by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and others. You can upgrade with a snack box and a drink of your choice for a complete culture.
It’s ideal for those who want a combo experience — scenic views and some of the best Dutch art. The cruise provides great photo opportunities, while the museum visit allows you to explore at your own pace.
Bottom line: Great for art lovers and those wanting a full-day cultural highlight.
How to Choose Your Perfect Amsterdam Boat Tour
When picking the right boat tour, consider your budget, interests, and time. If you’re after a quick overview and affordability, the City Centre Canal Cruise with Audioguide or the Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine are excellent options. For romantic evenings, the Evening Cruise with Wine offers a magical setting, while the Light Festival Boat is best during December when the city dresses up in lights.
If you’re traveling with friends who want a more relaxed, social vibe, the Booze and Smoke Cruise is the way to go. And for art lovers, the Rijksmuseum combo provides both scenic views and world-class artworks.
Booking early, especially during peak seasons, ensures you get your preferred date and time. Many tours run daily in summer and weekends, so plan ahead if you want the best experience.
To sum it up, Amsterdam offers a diverse range of boat tours — from quick sightseeing trips to immersive themed experiences. For a classic, panoramic overview, the Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine is hard to beat. If you’re seeking evening magic, the Night Cruise with Drinks delivers. For something truly different, the Booze & Smoke Cruise can make for a memorable, laid-back adventure.
Whatever your style, booking in advance is advisable — these tours are popular, and Amsterdam’s canals wait for no one. Now, all that’s left is to pick your favorite and enjoy a unique perspective on one of Europe’s most charming cities.