Haarlem offers a charming blend of historic architecture, lively culture, and scenic waterways—a perfect setting for exploring by boat. Whether you’re interested in a relaxing cruise past iconic landmarks like the Teylers Museum and Grote of Sint Bavo Kerk, or a private boat with friends, Haarlem’s canals are an inviting way to see the city’s highlights from a different perspective. We especially like the Open Boat Canal Tour in the City Center for its lively guides and scenic views, and the Private Canal Tour for those wanting a customizable experience. These tours let you glide past the historic buildings and get a sense of Haarlem’s atmosphere from the water, making them ideal for photography, leisurely sightseeing, or just soaking in the ambiance.
If you prefer a culinary touch, the Cheese and Wine Cruise combines the best of Dutch flavors with scenic waterways, while the Sail & Sushi Cruise offers a delicious meal paired with beautiful views. For those on a budget or short on time, quick cruises like the 50-minute boat tour deliver a compact overview of the main sights. We’ll walk you through each option to help you pick the perfect Haarlem boat experience.
1. Haarlem: Open Boat Canal Tour in the Historical City Center
At number one, the Haarlem: Open Boat Canal Tour in the Historical City Center stands out for its engaging storytelling and scenic routes. This tour lasts about 75 minutes and includes a live guide who shares insights into Haarlem’s architecture and art, making it more than just a boat ride; it’s an educational experience. You’ll cruise along the Spaarne river and smaller canals, passing by landmarks like the Teylers Museum and Grote of Sint Bavo Kerk.
What makes this tour special is its interactive commentary and the fact that it’s on an open boat, so you get plenty of fresh air and unobstructed views. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable and humorous guides, with a 4.9/5 rating based on 539 reviews. Many travelers praise the passion and local expertise of guides like Jeroen and Giselle, making the experience both informative and fun. This tour is perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a lively, engaging atmosphere.
Bottom line: If you want an in-depth, lively tour with the chance to learn about Haarlem’s sites in a relaxed setting, this open boat trip is a top choice.
2. Haarlem: 50 minutes Boat Cruise
For a shorter, more economical way to see Haarlem’s waterways, the 50-minute boat cruise is ideal. It’s priced at around $21.51 per person and offers a quick but still rundown of the city’s main attractions. This cruise takes you past places like Haarlem Central Station, the Jopen Church, and the Frans Hals Museum, giving you a well-rounded sense of the city’s highlights.
The tour includes audio commentary in Dutch and English, making it accessible for most travelers. Although some reviews mention the soundtrack can be loud due to other passengers, most find it a relaxing and informative way to explore the city quickly. The passage along Haarlem’s neoclassical architecture provides great photo opportunities, especially for first-time visitors. Plus, it’s a perfect option for a midday break or a family outing.
Bottom line: This is a practical choice for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting a quick overview of Haarlem’s main sights from the water.
3. Private Canal Tour Haarlem, your private boat with a captain
Seeking a more personalized experience? The Private Canal Tour offers a flexible, intimate cruise for groups up to 15 people, with prices starting at $406.38 per group. You’ll get a dedicated captain on a luxe sloep, allowing you to customize the route and pace. This tour is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or small group outings where privacy and tailored service matter.
The itinerary includes cruising past Molen De Adriaan, a picturesque windmill that’s a highlight in Haarlem. You can bring your own drinks or enjoy cold beverages provided onboard, making it a truly relaxed experience. The reviews are glowing, noting the expertise of the captain and the flexibility of the tour. It’s a bit pricier than group options but offers a level of comfort and exclusivity that’s hard to beat.
Bottom line: For those wanting a custom, private experience with friends or family, this tour offers the most flexibility and comfort.
4. Haarlem: Local Cheese and Wine Cruise
A perfect blend of culinary delights and scenic views, the Cheese and Wine Cruise lasts about 90 minutes and showcases Dutch cheeses paired with fine wines. It’s available only during July and August, making it a seasonal treat. The tour includes a dedicated host who guides you through tastings while you cruise past Haarlem’s landmarks, creating a relaxed, flavorful experience.
While reviews are limited, the focus on local cheeses and wines makes it appealing for foodies or those wanting an indulgent afternoon. The onboard atmosphere fosters conversation and enjoyment, especially as you take in the views of historic sites like the Teylers Museum from the water. The tour balances gastronomy with sightseeing in a way that’s both intimate and social.
Bottom line: This cruise is best suited for those who want to enjoy Dutch flavors alongside beautiful canal views in a laid-back setting.
5. Haarlem: Dutch Bitterballen and Drinks Cruise
For a lively, fun experience, the Dutch Bitterballen and Drinks Cruise lasts an hour and includes unlimited drinks plus the iconic Dutch snack bitterballen. This open boat tour is a good pick for groups seeking a relaxed, social outing in the summer. The skipper shares stories about Haarlem as you cruise through its canals, making it both informative and entertaining.
While some reviews mention the noise level due to other passengers, this tour’s main draw is its combination of culinary fun and casual atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience Haarlem’s lively side, especially if you enjoy trying local foods and having a few drinks while sightseeing.
Bottom line: Ideal for casual groups or friends looking for a fun, relaxed way to enjoy Haarlem’s canals with drinks and snacks.
6. Sail & Sushi Haarlem Cruise
If you’re craving a unique culinary adventure, the Sail & Sushi Cruise offers a two-hour experience combining scenic canal cruising with fresh sushi onboard. This experience is perfect for food lovers who want to indulge in Japanese cuisine amid Holland’s historic waterways. The cruise provides personalized service and passes landmarks such as Windmill De Adriaan, making it a memorable outing for friends or couples.
The reviews highlight the delicious sushi and the unforgettable ambiance of dining on the water. It’s a more upscale, immersive experience than typical sightseeing tours, making it well-suited for special occasions or a romantic evening. The combination of food and scenery provides excellent value, especially if you want to combine culinary delights with sightseeing.
Bottom line: For those who love sushi and want a distinctive way to see Haarlem, this cruise delivers both in spades.
7. Haarlem: Unlimited Drinks City Cruise
Last but not least, the Unlimited Drinks City Cruise offers a one-hour open boat experience with live commentary, ice-cold drinks, and a view of Haarlem’s iconic Windmill ‘De Adriaan’. This tour features cozy pillows on the open boat, making it comfortable, and is ideal for a lively, social outing. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy Haarlem’s sights without a long commitment.
While reviews are not yet available, the tour’s combination of informative commentary and unlimited drinks promises a fun, casual atmosphere—perfect for friends celebrating or anyone wanting to unwind after sightseeing.
Bottom line: Easy, quick, and fun, this tour suits those seeking a relaxed, social way to enjoy Haarlem’s canals.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Haarlem
When selecting your Haarlem boat tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a lively, educational experience, the Open Boat Canal Tour is hard to beat. For a private or tailored outing, the Private Canal Tour offers customization. Food lovers should look at the Cheese and Wine Cruise or the Sail & Sushi Cruise for a culinary twist. Budget travelers or short-stay visitors may prefer the 50-minute cruise for a quick overview.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months or during special events. Check availability and consider weather forecasts—most tours operate rain or shine, but heavy rain might reduce comfort.
Haarlem’s waterways offer a flexible way to enjoy the city’s historic charm, whether you prefer a quick overview, a private charter, or a gourmet experience. Two standout options are the Open Boat Canal Tour for its lively guides and scenic beauty, and the Private Canal Tour for personalized service. No matter your style or budget, Haarlem’s canals promise memorable views and a different perspective on this charming Dutch city.