Amsterdam: Guided Open Boat Cruise Unlimited Drinks Option

Imagine gliding through Amsterdam’s famous canals on a sleek, electric open boat, feeling the breeze and soaking in the sights—sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it? That’s essentially what you get with the Amsterdam Guided Open Boat Cruise with Unlimited Drinks, a popular choice for travelers looking to combine scenic beauty with a touch of luxury. With a solid 4.6 out of 5 based on 363 reviews, this tour has a lot going for it—and a few things worth considering.

We’re here to give you the scoop, highlighting what makes this experience stand out, what you should watch for, and whether it’s a good fit for your trip. From the knowledgeable guides to the stunning views of historic canal houses, this cruise manages to balance education with relaxation. But, as always, a few practical details can help you make the most of your time on the water.

Three aspects we love about this tour:

• The insightful live commentary from local guides like Tom and Louvisa, which adds context and personality.
• The breathtaking views of landmarks like the Royal Theater Carré, the Skinny Bridge, and the canals lined with historic homes.
• The option to indulge in unlimited drinks, which elevates the experience into a laid-back social occasion.

A possible consideration is that the route stays within the central waterways, so if you’re hoping for a more adventurous or off-the-beaten-path cruise, this might feel somewhat predictable. Still, for most visitors, the convenience and comfort outweigh this.

This tour is perfect for those wanting to see the city from a relaxed, open-air boat, with an emphasis on comfort, scenic views, and light commentary. It’s especially suited for visitors who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and socializing, and who might enjoy a drink or two along the way.

Key Points

• Comfortable, electric open boats provide a quiet, eco-friendly ride.
• Insightful local guides like Tom and Louvisa enhance the experience with interesting facts.
• Unbeatable views of Amsterdam’s historic canal houses and landmarks.
• Optional unlimited drinks offer a relaxed social vibe, with beers, wines, and prosecco.
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Meeting point conveniently located in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Vessels and Setting

The cruise takes place aboard electric-powered boats, ensuring a peaceful ride without noisy engines spoiling the tranquility. The boats are open, which means you’ll get an unobstructed view of the scenery and fresh air—ideal for those who enjoy being outdoors. The mention of blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas indicates a readiness for any weather, making it a flexible experience no matter the forecast.

The Route and Landmarks

Your journey begins near Amsterdam Central Station, where the crew greets you in front of the Victoria Hotel. From here, the tour typically sails along the Amstel River, offering views of Royal Theater Carré—a gorgeous 19th-century venue—and passing under the iconic Seven Bridges.

Most reviews highlight that the route stays within the central canals, which are lined with classic canal houses with gabled facades and charming details. While some travelers mentioned that the route doesn’t go off the beaten path, most appreciate the opportunity to relax while experiencing the city’s postcard-perfect scenery.

The Guides and Commentary

Guides like Tom and Louvisa earn high praise for their friendly, informative commentary. They share historical tidbits and fun facts, which add depth without overwhelming. One reviewer specifically noted that their guide “shared a lot of fun and interesting information,” making the trip both educational and enjoyable. The live narration helps you understand the significance of sights like the Skinny Bridge or the Waterlooplein Market.

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The Drinks and Atmosphere

The optional unlimited drinks upgrade is popular among groups who want to turn their cruise into a social event. The drinks are self-serve, including Heineken beer, various wines, and soft drinks, allowing you to help yourself at your pace. Some reviewers felt this was not the best value if you’re not a big drinker, but for those who enjoy a tipple or two, it’s a carefree way to toast the city.

The Price and Value

At $21 per person, this cruise offers a competitive price for a scenic boat ride with added extras. The cost includes taxes and the use of blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas, which adds value. For a leisurely hour or so on the canal, many find it a worthwhile expense—especially considering the small-group atmosphere and the opportunity to relax with drinks in hand.

Customer Feedback

Reviews paint a generally positive picture: guests like Austin appreciated the “lovely people” and the cheerful guides, even in light rain. Dyah found the tour informative, mentioning it’s worth the price, especially with the soft drinks included. Other travelers, like Christa, recommend it despite minor difficulties in finding the meeting point, which underscores the importance of arriving a little early or checking directions.

Some reviews noted that the narration can be minimal or route predictable—a fair point if you’re expecting a more adventurous or off-the-beaten-path exploration. However, many appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to sit back and enjoy the iconic views.

Practical Tips

• Meet in front of Amsterdam Central Station: look for the red banner opposite the Victoria Hotel.
• Book in advance: flexible booking options mean you can reserve without paying upfront, and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Dress for the weather: blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas are provided, but bringing an extra layer or waterproof gear can enhance comfort.
• Consider the drinks option: if you’re a big drinker, the unlimited package will add a fun social aspect; if not, you might prefer to stick with soft drinks or buy drinks separately.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who want a comfortable, scenic overview of Amsterdam’s waterways without the need for a lengthy or overly complicated tour. It’s a good fit for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed way to take in the sights while enjoying some drinks. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views make it an ideal choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to unwind after exploring the city on foot.

It’s especially valuable for those interested in a small-group, intimate atmosphere with a chance to chat, laugh, and learn about the city from local guides. The optional drinks upgrade adds a bit of fun, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just making the experience a little more festive.

Final Thoughts

The Amsterdam Guided Open Boat Cruise with Unlimited Drinks offers a charming, laid-back way to see the city’s famous canals. It’s priced well for what it delivers—a peaceful ride with beautiful scenery, interesting commentary, and the option to indulge in drinks without the fuss of a bar. The electric boats and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of luxury with their sightseeing.

While it may not satisfy those looking for a highly adventurous or off-the-beaten-path route, it excels at providing a comfortable, scenic, and social experience. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and optional unlimited drinks makes it a practical and enjoyable addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.

If you’re after an easy, authentic way to experience the city’s waterways and learn a few fun facts along the way, this cruise is certainly worth considering. Just arrive with a smile, a camera, and maybe a drink or two in mind.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The typical duration is about one hour, providing a relaxed overview of the central canals.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet your guides and skipper in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station, on the “Middenkom” opposite the Victoria Hotel.

Is the boat accessible in bad weather?
Yes, blankets, ponchos, and umbrellas are provided, so you can stay comfortable even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your plans.

What’s included in the price?
The fare covers the boat, guide, taxes, and weather protection gear. If you select the unlimited drinks option, you get self-serve beers, wines, and soft drinks.

Is the route suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly experience, but keep in mind that the boat is open-air and may be less suitable in very cold weather.

Are the drinks self-serve?
Yes, if you opt for the unlimited drinks upgrade, you help yourself at onboard stations.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The data doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

In essence, this tour offers a relaxed, scenic glimpse of Amsterdam’s charming canals, with a touch of luxury and a lot of fun. Perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to enjoy the city’s waterways, especially if they like a drink or two along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: