Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
4.5
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A cruise on Amsterdam's canals is a must for any first-time visitor! By doing this early in your trip you will get a great perspective of the city. Amsterdam Canal Cruises doesn't only offer canal cruises, but also museums, attractions, tours and more!
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Amsterdam Canal Cruises
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
10,470 reviews
Excellent
5,366
Very good
3,586
Average
1,157
Poor
228
Terrible
134
RichardLeeds1974
United Kingdom39 contributions
Mar 2020
My girlfriend and I managed to do a Canal Tour whilst in Amsterdam which was fortunate as many of the museums, art galleries, shops, cafes, bars and restaurants were closing or closed due to the coronavirus.
Our boat was about three quarters full and as we went round the city we listened to the commentary via headphones. The only criticism was the commentary was a little uneven and repetitive at times and yet the tour was very informative and educational too. The toilet on board was also a little cramped but it was clean and the sink had both hot water and soap.
All in all my girlfriend and I would like to thank you for the tour and hope one day to return to Amsterdam when the situation improves. However it is worth noting if you do a Canal Tour and purchase and do a tour before 11am the cost is 13 € and after 11am the cost is 16.50 € and tickets can bought from the terminal or from the Tourist Information Centre outside Amsterdam Centraal railway station.
Our boat was about three quarters full and as we went round the city we listened to the commentary via headphones. The only criticism was the commentary was a little uneven and repetitive at times and yet the tour was very informative and educational too. The toilet on board was also a little cramped but it was clean and the sink had both hot water and soap.
All in all my girlfriend and I would like to thank you for the tour and hope one day to return to Amsterdam when the situation improves. However it is worth noting if you do a Canal Tour and purchase and do a tour before 11am the cost is 13 € and after 11am the cost is 16.50 € and tickets can bought from the terminal or from the Tourist Information Centre outside Amsterdam Centraal railway station.
Written March 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen M
Kirkwall, UK1,240 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Booked an open ticket with Lovers cruise & was told could go with any cruise time - they ran every 45 mins. Beware - we were told with the open ticket that could get on at any Dock, but when tried to get on at the Rijksmuseum, we were told couldn't & could only use the ticket at the Central station Dock.
The cruise takes a slow journey around the city, negotiating some tight turns & low bridges. You get to see a different perspective from the water, with headphones provided that give you commentary on the sights (language choice available). It's amazing to imagine the busy trading & warehouse waterway that Amsterdam once was.
The cruise takes a slow journey around the city, negotiating some tight turns & low bridges. You get to see a different perspective from the water, with headphones provided that give you commentary on the sights (language choice available). It's amazing to imagine the busy trading & warehouse waterway that Amsterdam once was.
Written February 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Angela McDowell
Henley-on-Thames, UK57 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
We booked an evening dinner canal cruise - initially we thought it was expensive at €95 each, but on reflection the lovely meal, unlimited wine & a 2 hour cruise was worth it all in. The staff were attentive & friendly. We had a dining table to ourselves & the food was really delicious. The staff did little commentaries at various sites of interest & this is my only criticism. I think the experience could have been enhanced if a knowledgeable guide were employed to give more commentary - we would have liked to have learnt more about the areas we passed. Think about that Stromma - we did enjoy the evening however.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kristian R
4 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Firstly we booked on Expedia . Quite expensive and in the ‘know before you book’ this cruise does not mention that you can be sitting next to other people . Unfortunately only after you book , when it’s too late to get a refund , are you informed via fine print that the tour can be shared tables .
We got there early . We got on the boat as the fourth couple , and even then it looked like the seating lady put us on the only shared table cause we looked like the least likely to complain .
To see the rest of the boat have large tables with which to eat , when we were placed right next another couple was the first hard thing to experience . However what is harder is the thought that knowing we were the ‘only’ cramped table on the boat , shouldn’t the staff have made an extra effort to see if we and the other couple were ok throughout the night ? We couldn’t easily get up to go the bathroom . Our plate with bread rolls , even though finished , was not collected until two hours into the two and a half hour cruise . We managed to get the welcome Prosecco , and a glass of wine each , but my glass sat empty after that for 45 mins . And only after my husband asked for another drink did the waitress fill it up . They also brought us two of the courses before even clearing our Prosecco glasses or topping up the wine .
You would think that seeing empty glasses would encourage a top up . You’d think also that knowing both couples were on the only cramped table on the entire boat , the staff would make sure to clear these two tables more efficiently .
Not only this , but the waitress dangerously poured my wine by reaching over the lady sitting next to me and I had to pass plates over her . Which did not make for a good look.
The food was not bad , just not good either and definitely not worth the price we paid .
I managed to have two glasses of wine , a Prosecco, water and a coffee over the whole two and a half hours , plus half of my husbands two glasses . It was incredibly hard to get the attention of the waitresses and even when they did , it was because the couple next to us flagged her down or we tried to ask when they were delivering a course . Even then she looked at us like we were imposing .
The lights were beautiful , however the commentary was not consistent and unusual at best . The whole boat looked to be confused about the artworks on the canals as they were only pointed out a few times.
To the company , I’d suggest you limit the seating and tickets to either groups of four who know each other , or tables of two for the whole boat when you have the situation we had that made us the only people to share a table on the boat .
To people wanting to purchase this cruise , as long as you know that you might have to share and are ok with the cramped space this puts you in . We would not have spent so much money had we known at the time of purchase .
I now have to publish a review to the newspaper I am a critic for , and it will not be a favourable one.
We got there early . We got on the boat as the fourth couple , and even then it looked like the seating lady put us on the only shared table cause we looked like the least likely to complain .
To see the rest of the boat have large tables with which to eat , when we were placed right next another couple was the first hard thing to experience . However what is harder is the thought that knowing we were the ‘only’ cramped table on the boat , shouldn’t the staff have made an extra effort to see if we and the other couple were ok throughout the night ? We couldn’t easily get up to go the bathroom . Our plate with bread rolls , even though finished , was not collected until two hours into the two and a half hour cruise . We managed to get the welcome Prosecco , and a glass of wine each , but my glass sat empty after that for 45 mins . And only after my husband asked for another drink did the waitress fill it up . They also brought us two of the courses before even clearing our Prosecco glasses or topping up the wine .
You would think that seeing empty glasses would encourage a top up . You’d think also that knowing both couples were on the only cramped table on the entire boat , the staff would make sure to clear these two tables more efficiently .
Not only this , but the waitress dangerously poured my wine by reaching over the lady sitting next to me and I had to pass plates over her . Which did not make for a good look.
The food was not bad , just not good either and definitely not worth the price we paid .
I managed to have two glasses of wine , a Prosecco, water and a coffee over the whole two and a half hours , plus half of my husbands two glasses . It was incredibly hard to get the attention of the waitresses and even when they did , it was because the couple next to us flagged her down or we tried to ask when they were delivering a course . Even then she looked at us like we were imposing .
The lights were beautiful , however the commentary was not consistent and unusual at best . The whole boat looked to be confused about the artworks on the canals as they were only pointed out a few times.
To the company , I’d suggest you limit the seating and tickets to either groups of four who know each other , or tables of two for the whole boat when you have the situation we had that made us the only people to share a table on the boat .
To people wanting to purchase this cruise , as long as you know that you might have to share and are ok with the cramped space this puts you in . We would not have spent so much money had we known at the time of purchase .
I now have to publish a review to the newspaper I am a critic for , and it will not be a favourable one.
Written January 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi 345kristianr,
Thank you for your review.
Unfortunately with all canal cruises, a private table for your company can never be guaranteed. If it's (even slightly) busy on the boat, you'll have to share a table with other guests.
However, it's a shame to hear that the customer service provided to you wasn't as expected. As this is a canal cruise offered by Stromma, there isn't a lot we can do about this but I'll pass your feedback along to them.
Kind regards,
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Written January 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Alfred O
Amsterdam, The Netherlands32 contributions
Jul 2019 • Friends
I have lived in Amsterdam three separate times over the years and i would never r heccommend one of these Bost trips down the waterways of the City .One year when a long time friend came to Amsterdam to visit me , David my friend wanted to take one of these boat rides . So i went with him . I never told him how much i found it a total waste if money and time . My time !!!! Thats how i make extra money to add to my wallet is to take people from the whole World on My Personalized Tours of Europe . , usually lasting Two weeks or So . From Northern Scotland through the Lake District of England and down into London . I stay at a Golf Course hotel called Glen Eagles in Scotland which costs $750.00 a night and spend two nights in Edinburgh visiting the Castle on the hill of Mary . I visit Israel too . But this cheap boat ride is the dregs of Amsterdam . I have places and many things that i do in Amsterdam when i tour . And this isnt one of them .I wont sit on a Boat with a Bunch of Old and dieing people thats on their dying Bucket list . SORRY LITTLE BOAT .!!!!
.
.
Written May 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Raul V
Kingwood, TX8 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
After enjoying a cappuccino, my wife and I walked along the canals taking in the busy Amsterdam life until finally we were ready for a canal tour. We were on Prinsengracht street near Anne Frank's house and we tried waiting for space on one of the long covered boats for about 45 minutes and then gave up. Luckily next to those there was KINboat which did not required reservations and were ready to leave; this proved to be the best decision for a one hour tour. Skipper Gert had humor and was very informative, drinks were available for sale and even the skipper offered to give some Dutch language lessons to everybody. At the same time, without the obstruction of a roof, my wife and I had a chance to take pictures and videos on any dirección and made quite a bit of memorable moments. In summary KINboats is a great and best choice, they are very professional and the price value is perfect.
Written May 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
920gemma
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK90 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
I booked a 48 hop on hop off experience which included a one off boat trip. You got to see all the beautiful buildings alongside the canals and it helps you understand some of Amsterdam’s history. It was also great for giving your feet a rest as we had walked for miles. We also escaped the rain for an hour. Really enjoyed it all and the canal cruise was particularly relaxing.
Written March 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lauren B
Seattle, Washington, Usa57 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
A canal cruise is a must-do when visiting Amsterdam. After walking most of the day, getting to take in the city from a different view while relaxing on a boat (while sipping wine and eating cheese) was very enjoyable! Our skipper, Christophe, and host Arianna, made the trip even more fun by regaling us all with facts and fun stories about the city. I recommend the covered boat, as it provided shade on a hot day, but still allowed for a sense of the outdoors with no windowpanes to obstruct the view or breeze.
Written June 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi 514laurenb,
Thank you for your review!
We're glad to hear that you enjoyed the canal cruise (and the wine and cheese ;)). Enjoy the rest of your stay in Amsterdam!
Best,
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Written June 27, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
han4acre
Brynmawr, UK13 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We had a lovely experience on the canal cruise with the 4 course meal and drinks.
However, they ran out of red wine after our first glass. Dessert was very rushed then they handed out tea and coffee and we unfortunately didnt have time to drink them before being rushed off the boat.
We were sat very close to the couple next to us, request a window seat if you can!
They should improve these small imperfections to achieve the experience that you pay for.
However, they ran out of red wine after our first glass. Dessert was very rushed then they handed out tea and coffee and we unfortunately didnt have time to drink them before being rushed off the boat.
We were sat very close to the couple next to us, request a window seat if you can!
They should improve these small imperfections to achieve the experience that you pay for.
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carolla3012
Cheltenham, UK14 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
Seeing Amsterdam from the water on a very sunny afternoon was very relaxing but there were limiting views due to an enclosed roof and side panels. This was not shown on the booking image as it looked more open at the sides of the craft.
The skipper was friendly and provided some fun information but this isn’t highbrow and essentially felt like an 18-25 years old booze cruise with plenty of alcohol offered. I’m also probably getting a little old for some of the skipper’s irreverent liberal references peppered with cliches but appreciate that others probably didn’t care or notice.
The skipper was friendly and provided some fun information but this isn’t highbrow and essentially felt like an 18-25 years old booze cruise with plenty of alcohol offered. I’m also probably getting a little old for some of the skipper’s irreverent liberal references peppered with cliches but appreciate that others probably didn’t care or notice.
Written May 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I am hoping to visit Amsterdam in June , is it essential to book a canal trip please?
Written May 11, 2024
Hi, I am going in late July and would like to take the night canal cruise and see the bridge lights. A few questions need help here.
1) If I take the 8pm - 9pm cruise, will I get to see all the bridge lights lit up?
2) Which cruise company has better route? Does it matter departing from Central Station or near National Museum like Blue Boat?
3) I have a group of 18 people, is it better to make the reservation now?
Thanks.
Written May 20, 2022
Hi tchou101,
How exciting that you'll be visiting Amsterdam in July!
1) If you want to go on a canal cruise when it's dark outside, I would recommend you to take the cruise later. In July, the sun will probably set around 9:30-10PM. On the other hand, if you take the cruise at 9PM, you might see a beautiful sunset during your canal cruise :)
2) If you'll be visiting museums or other attractions before your canal cruise, then I'd recommend you to take the canal cruise with Blue Boat Company. The departure location for their Evening Cruise is within walking distance from i.e. the Rijksmuseum, Heineken Experience etc.
3) July is a busy month as everyone has summer holidays. To make sure that everyone can go in the same boat at your desired time slot, it would be best to book in advance.
Best,
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Written May 23, 2022
I am interested in taking both and evening and day time canal cruise in September. Hoping they would cover different areas. I am looking to stay just North of the Anne Frank House and was also hoping to limit walk time to the cruises to 15 minutes or less. Do you have specific recommendations?
Written February 15, 2021
Sorry about the negative vote on your response DemiHale1. Did it by mistake and cannot change it now. Your response was helpful indeed.
Written August 23, 2021
Hi Petalvr1,
There are a few steps you'll have to go down, but as others have suggested, our staff are always willing to help! We also have wheelchair accessible boats, so if you're in a wheelchair please let us know by calling ahead and we'll make sure to book you for one of these boats.
Kind regards,
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Written March 9, 2020
what is the best night canal cruise. we would like to be close to the drop off point close to Nieuwmarkt Station and Rokin station
Written February 17, 2020
Hi there. Not sure since there are several organised operators aswell as private water tours. We used the Hop on and hop off. Very reliable.
Written February 18, 2020
Bonjour
Sur quel site pouvons-nous réserver une balade sur les canaux d’Amsterdam sur un petit bateau ?
Bonne journée .
Merci
Written February 16, 2020
Bonjour,
Nous avons réservé sur place mais je pense que sur le site de la ville d'Amsterdam il doit y avoir cette possibilité.
Désolée de ne pouvoir vous aider plus.
Written February 17, 2020
are there any canal cruises that leaving right from in front of the Moenpick hotel / cruiseship terminal ?
Written September 20, 2019
Sorry, we took our trip from St Nicholas church, near the train station.
Written September 25, 2019
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