Amsterdam Canal Cruises

There is no general answer to the question of which Amsterdam canal cruise is the best, as the canal cruises are very different.

The classic one-hour canal cruise with large boats and audio guide is offered by five companies. These canal tours hardly differ from one another. They are rated well by guests, but are not an outstanding experience.

Generally speaking, guests are happier with smaller boats that offer either a live guide or additional extras such as drinks and snacks.

Before booking a canal cruise, always check the average rating on GetYourGuide or Tiqets. We have indicated the average rating above.

Canal cruises in Amsterdam are relatively inexpensive, as competition between shipping companies is fierce. A classic one-hour canal cruise usually costs just €16 per person.

A canal cruise in a smaller boat with live commentary often costs no more than €20 per person. The price only rises significantly if drinks or food are included.

The classic canal cruise, which is offered by several companies, does not necessarily have to be booked in advance. You can simply go to the landing stage and buy a ticket for the next cruise. However, the canal cruise cannot be guaranteed. In the high season, the popular cruises are often sold out.

Basically, you don't need to bring anything with you for a canal trip. However, you should be prepared for the weather. If the sun is shining, it is advisable to bring sun protection and sunglasses.

It can be a little cooler on the water in windy conditions than in the city. Warm clothing is recommended for cooler days. There are also blankets on the boats to keep you warm.

Most canal cruises in Amsterdam last about an hour. Only a few cruises last 90 minutes or even two hours (evening cruise, dinner cruise and pizza boat tour).

The best time of day for a canal cruise in Amsterdam depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience:

1. In the morning: A trip in the morning offers quieter waterways and fewer crowds. The soft morning light is ideal for photography.
2. Afternoon: In the afternoon, the canals are busier, offering a livelier experience. It's a good time to see the city in full activity.
3. In the evening: An evening cruise offers a romantic atmosphere, especially when the sun goes down and the lights come on along the canals. It is ideal for couples or for those who want to enjoy the illuminated cityscape.

Every time of day has its own charm, so the best choice depends on your interests and the desired ambience. Also consider the time of year and the weather, as these can also influence the experience.

There are many starting points for the Amsterdam canal cruises. For some tours, you can choose between several meeting points.

You will find the departure points for each of the boat tours linked above.

Most boats run very regularly. In the high season, the ships of the major shipping companies sail every 15 minutes. In the low season, the boats sail every 30 minutes. If you buy a flexible ticket for the classic canal cruise, you can board a boat from five shipping companies at any time.

Toilets are often only available on the large boats on the classic canal cruises. However, a toilet cannot be guaranteed, as there are also boats without a toilet.

Unfortunately, most canal trips are not suitable for wheelchair users. Among the classic canal cruises, only the Blue Boat tour is barrier-free.

• Blue Boat: To reserve a wheelchair space, please call customer service (+31 206791370). This also applies to the Blue Boat evening cruise.
• LOVERS / City Sightseeing: Wheelchairs cannot be taken on board. You must be able to get on and off the boat independently. There are several steps to negotiate.
• Strømma / Amsterdam Circle Line: You must be able to get on and off independently. There are several steps to negotiate. The wheelchair can be taken on board if it can be folded.
• Friendship Amsterdam: The Friendship boat is suitable for wheelchair users. Access to the boat is still somewhat difficult. However, you will be helped to board the boat. It is advisable to contact the provider in advance by telephone (+31 20 3344 774).
• Flagship Amsterdam/KINboat: People with disabilities can be helped to board the boat. However, the boats are not wheelchair accessible.

No, smoking is not permitted on most canal cruises. An exception is the Smoke and Lounge Cruise. Smoking is permitted here with the window open.

Most providers do not allow pets (LOVERS, Blue Boat, Strømma, Amsterdam Circle Line, KINboat, City Sightseeing). Only assistance dogs are allowed.

Pets are allowed on the canal cruises of Flagship Amsterdam and Friendship Amsterdam. However, you must ensure that the animals do not disturb the other passengers. They are also not allowed to sit on the cushions.