What's the best Amsterdam canal tour for you?
Find Your Favorite Boat Tour with the Amsterdam Canal Tour Selector!
How to find out what Amsterdam canal tour is best for you? Just select your personal preferences in the boxes below and a selection of the best boat trips for you will appear.
Check out the 60 options that meet your requirements.
Open Boat Tour with Local Guide & Bar by Mokumboot (from Central Station)
This open boat tour from Central Station combines the best of the Amsterdam canals with the highlights of the Amstel River. Grab some pillows and relax on this comfortable and eco-friendly electric boat. Order a drink from the bar and listen to the stories told by the knowledgeable local guide. Mokumboot boasts outstanding reviews on Google and Tripadvisor, provides blankets and ponchos if needed, and offers very flexible conditions (reschedule or cancel up to 12 hours in advance).
Luxury Canal Cruise from the Red Light District
This luxury canal cruise begins and ends in the Red Light District, the oldest and most vibrant part of Amsterdam. The enthusiastic Friendship crew will guide you for an hour along the Oosterdok, the Amstel, and the most beautiful canals. Along the way, you can purchase soft drinks, beer, wine, or even a delicious long drink or cocktail at the bar. You will sail silently in a stylish electric boat. There are cushions and blankets on board. And in case of bad weather, you can reschedule your reservation for free.
Flagship Open Boat Tour from Rijksmuseum
This one-hour canal tour on Flagship’s open boat is very popular and highly rated. The location is close to the Museum Quarter, Vondelpark and Leidseplein. The view from the open boat is always good, the cushions are comfortable, and the guides are extremely nice and informative. There is a bar on board where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Truly relaxing and comfortable!
Flagship Open Boat Tour from Central Station
Flagship also offers trips with their open boats directly from Central Station. With live commentary and a bar on board, this one-hour tour is both relaxing and informative. From the open boat, you have a great view of all the highlights on your way, including the UNESCO area and the Skinny Bridge over the Amstel river. Highly recommended!
Cocktail Cruise from the Red Light District (Unlimited Drinks Included)
This luxury canal cruise includes unlimited cocktails, specialty beers, and other drinks. So order your favorite drinks, enjoy the highlights of the Amsterdam canals, and listen to the entertaining stories of the guide on board. Tip: combine this laid-back cruise with a visit to the Red Light District, as that is where it starts and ends.
Pedal Boat Amsterdam: ‘Canal Cycling’
There is only pedal boat rental in Amsterdam, with fixed rates. This activity is particularly exciting for families with children (max. 4 people per pedal boat) and for groups of friends looking for an active experience. The minimum rental period is one hour and the location is in front of the Rijksmuseum.
Rent a Boat (and Drive it Yourself!) from Boats4rent
At Boats4rent you can rent a small open canal boat to sail yourself. From the dock close to the lively Jordaan area it is only a short drive to the most beautiful parts of the city centre. The boats are decent but rather basic and the rates are the best in town, starting at just €79 for a three hour canal tour. Before departure you will receive a good personal instruction and a clear map with the best canal routes. Popular with locals and tourists, so make sure you reserve your boat in advance.
Self-drive Amsterdam Boat Rental at Boaty Boat Hire
At Boaty Boat Rental you can rental an electric canal boat for up to 6 people. After a short personal instruction it’s easy to drive yourself. You don’t need a license for that. The location of Boaty is in the popular ‘de Pijp’ area, not far from the Museum Quarter and the Heineken Experience. Boaty has a limited number of boats available, so we recommend to book online in advance.
Carefree Private Boat Tour for max. 25 People, optional: Drinks/Snacks
Are you looking for a for a well-organized boat tour with colleagues, friends, or family? Then book his affordable private tour for up to 25 people, leaving from Central Station. You can choose between a 1-hour or 2.5-hour tour. We will select the boat that best suits the weather conditions of the day. With the optional drink and snack packages, you can be sure that everything is well taken care of, without any worries or hassle.
‘Ondine‘ authentic luxury canal tour boat
The saloon boat ‘Ondine’ is the perfect boat for a truly exclusive Amsterdam canal tour. This boat is more than a century old, but in excellent shape. It offers all you can wish for, with outstanding service and catering on board. Suitable for business meetings and private parties up to 30 people. With nice weather the sides can be opened and there is even an outdoor terrace.
‘Roerdomp’: a luxury converted executive boat
This is the perfect boat for well-organized cruising arrangements with groups of up to 12 people. On this stylish former executive vessel of a famous Dutch shipyard, you’ll enjoy the splendid canal views through the large windows, while enjoying your drinks and/or dinner. In good weather, the open deck is a delightful spot. The operator of this boat specializes in luxury cruises for businesses and high-end private trips.
Economic Luxury Boat for Small Groups (max. 5 pax)
This historic saloon boat is a very attractive option for small groups seeking affordable luxury. Your tour starts and ends on Singel, right in the city center. In 1,5 hours you get to see the very best of the Amsterdam canals. The skipper speaks English and you can buy drinks on board.
‘Marie Zurlohe’: classic, elegant boat for special occasions
Are you looking for an exceptionally beautiful boat for an intimate and well-organized cruise with a maximum of 12 people? Then Marie Zurlohe is the perfect choice for you. On this elegant lady of age (over a century old), you’ll cruise the Amsterdam canals in utmost style, whisper-quiet, and with excellent service. It’s ideal for a lunch or dinner with colleagues or business guests. Or privately, if you have something truly worth celebrating!
Large Canal Tour Boat Anna Maria
Anna Maria is the perfect boat for a large group canal tour. Up to 60 people can enjoy drinks at the bar and food varying from snack to exquisite diners. Of course this boat has a toilet, a heating and music on board. A great feature is the flexible roof, which allows for open air boating when the weather is nice.
Most economic private canal tour for max. 10 people
For a private canal tour with a maximum of 10 people, this deal gives you excellent value for money, personal service and great flexibility. You can choose the starting and ending points of your trip. Based on these and the duration of your trip (most popular: 1.5 hours), the skipper of this electric boat will plan the best itinerary and guide you through the most beautiful canals. Thanks to the clever design of the boat—with a flexible cover—your tour can take place in any weather. And last but not least, this tour includes some drinks along the way!
Affordable Private Tour in Historical Boat (1,5 hours with max. 10 pax)
This historic saloon boat is a very attractive option for groups seeking affordable luxury. Your tour starts and ends in the city center, in front of the H’ART Museum (formerly known as Hermitage). In 1,5 hours you get to see the best of the Amsterdam canals. The skipper speaks English and drinks are included.
Private Open Lounge Boat for Groups up to 12 People
On this open lounge boat you and your group will have the best views on the Amsterdam canals during your two hour tour. This electric boat has large lounge cushions, a toilet on board and an English speaking skipper. You can buy your drinks on board.
Large Open Boat for Private Amsterdam Canal Tours (max. 25 pax.)
This large electric boat can take up to 25 people on a private 2 hour Amsterdam canal tour. It has cushions and a toilet on board and an English speaking skipper. You may bring your own snacks and drinks, or arrange these in advance with the boat operator. The roof can be removed if the weather is nice, and closed in case of rain.
‘Her Royal Highness’: Large Luxury Private Boat Tour
‘Stern’ Luxury Private Saloon Boat
The ‘Stern’ is a century old classical beauty that was built as a boat for the board of directors of the Royal Dutch Steamboat Company and their guests. It has a nice outdoor deck and a retractable roof. Up to 12 people can cruise in style and even enjoy high-end dinners on board this saloon boat.
‘Dyos’ modern luxury saloon boat
The ‘Dyos’ by Friendship Amsterdam is a former tugboat (built in 1928) recently turned into a modern luxury saloon boat. On this boat you can take up to 45 people. On board it has all facilities you can think of, including a smart AV-system, a real kitchen for live cooking and even a small fireplace. The windows and part of the roof can open in case of nice weather.
Mokumboot Self Drive Boat Rental Amsterdam
At Mokumboot you can rent a boat that is a bit more comfortable and more spacious. On these boats you can take up to 8 people, no license required. Mokumboot has many locations spread around Amsterdam. So wherever you are, there is always a dock nearby. Prices start at 97,50 for a 2 hour rental and it’s recommended to reserve online.
Luxury Dinner Cruise Amsterdam
The luxury dinner cruise is a treat to all senses. It’s a very worthwhile 3 hour evening canal cruise in an intimate setting on a stylish Amsterdam canal boat. Admire the beautiful Amsterdam canals at night while enjoying your Amsterdam aperitif, an amuse, a fantastic 3-course dinner of your choice, and matching wines of course.
All-in Dinner Cruise (incl. 4 Course Dinner & Drinks)
What a great combination: this All-In Dinner Cruise is a two-hour journey through the beautiful canals of Amsterdam aboard a large sightseeing boat. As you glide through the city by night, you’ll enjoy a delicious 4-course dinner with a choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are all included, so you can sit back, relax, and take in the magical views. Bon appétit and enjoy the ride!
‘Sarah’: small electric saloon boat
The Sarah is an electric saloon boat, for a stylish and comfortable private canal tour. The layout for a maximum of 12 people makes it very suitable for small festivities and business meetings. This boat has a toilet and music on board and the front and rear end can be opened when the weather is nice.
Amsterdam Canal Cruise by Lovers
Lovers (named after the original founder) is probably the most popular choice for a regular 1-hour canal cruise. Their modern boats, equipped with audio guides in 19 languages, depart very frequently. You can board at one of four prime locations: Central Station, Leidsekade (near Leidseplein and Vondelpark), Anne Frank House, or the Rijksmuseum. Want an extra discount on the best online rate? Be sure to use our discount code: RVV10.
‘Zonneboot’ Private Boat Tour
Canal Tour by Night
An Amsterdam canal tour by night offers a truly different experience compared to a daytime cruise. After sunset, the city transforms into a fairytale setting. The canals become calm and peaceful, while the streets, bridges, and buildings are beautifully illuminated. Avoid the crowds and enjoy this magical scenery by booking your Amsterdam canal tour at night. To get the best possible rate, don’t forget to use our discount code: RVV10
Stromma Canal Cruise from Rijksmuseum
Stromma (formerly Canal Company) has been offering canal cruises in Amsterdam for over 30 years. On their large tour boat, you’ll see some of the most beautiful canals and a gorgeous section of the Amstel River in just 75 minutes. This cruise starts and ends in front of the Rijksmuseum.
Canal Cruise from Anne Frank House (Amsterdam Circle Line)
The Amsterdam Circle Line canal cruise departs from the Anne Frank House. This cruise on a large electric-powered boat lasts approximately 75 minutes. In bad weather, the roof remains closed, keeping you warm and protected, while in good weather, the roof opens up. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before departure.
Blue Boat Canal Cruise from Leidseplein
The Blue Boat Company offers a 75 minute highlights cruise with optional snack box on board. Their location is close to the popular Hardrock Cafe, Leidseplein, the Museum Quarter and the Vondelpark.
Rederij P. Kooij Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Kooij is a family business and nearly a century old. It is the oldest canal cruise company in Amsterdam. And so it shows, in a positive sense. Kooij has its own neat and very central location (between Dam Square and Munt Tower) and more classical boats than its competitors.
Stromma Open Boat Tour
The Stromma Open Boat Tour departs near Central Station and takes 75 minutes. On top of the main canals it also includes some smaller canals. The skipper is your guide, providing interesting information about the Amsterdam canals in English.
Boat Amsterdam
Boat Amsterdam offers relaxed 70 minutes open boat tours from its central location in front of the Amsterdam Hermitage. Free drinks and a guide on board are included.
Port of Amsterdam Cruise
‘Suzanne’ Private Boat Tour
The Suzanne combines the design of a vintage saloon boat with the materials, practicality and comfort of a newly built boat. The hull is made from blank aluminium and the propulsion is electric. The roof has a very clever construction. It allows for an open roof when the weather is nice, and in case of rain the roof will close so all (max. 24) passengers stay dry. This is the only saloon boat that does not require a minimal rental period of two hours and lets you bring your own food and drinks. The Suzanne has a toilet, heating and music on board.
SUP Rental Amsterdam
SUP Rental Amsterdam has decent and stabile SUPs for rent. Excellent for active tours on the Amstel river and the Amsterdam canals. All by yourself or together with friends. If you’ve never been on a SUP before, they will give you some instructions. You can store your personal belongings at their dock at the Amstel river near the Berlage bridge.
‘Sloepvrienden’ Private Boat Tour
This sturdy, newly built aluminium lifeboat offers excellent value for money for large groups (maximum 43 people). Although the boat has a partial cover, you may cancel for free of charge in case of rain. Catering is provided for on demand. Alternatively, it is also allowed to bring your own food and drinks, which is rather exceptional. There is a toilet on board.
‘Anne Bonney’ Exclusive Private Speed Boat Tour
This private tour boat is one of a kind: an electric speedboat with a cool captain and a small but well-stocked refrigerator on board. Don’t expect a lot of space and high speeds. All canals have strict (and low) speed limits. This boat is about ‘the look of speed’ and about James Bond style class. The open cabin fits a maximum of 3 guests.
Pizza Cruise Amsterdam
The Pizza Cruise by Lovers & New York Pizza is a lovely tour to take with friends or family. The kids will love you for it! A pizza of your choice, unlimited drinks (beer, wine and soft drinks) of your choice and an ice cream for desert are all included. This tour is available every night at a fixed time. It takes 75 minutes and departs from a very convenient location: in front of Central Station.
Jewel Romantic Dinner Cruise
Gourmets can enjoy some fine dining during a long (2 ¾ hours) evening tour on a classical saloon boat. The atmosphere is very welcoming and romantic. Departs near Dam Square every night at a fixed time.
Hop on Hop Off Boat
This hop-on hop-off boat offers excellent value for money. Enjoy unlimited canal cruising and sightseeing for an entire day — or even two full days. Stay on board as long as you like, and use the many centrally located stops to hop on and off as often as you want. Your ticket also includes: free entry to the Gassan Diamond Factory, free Wi-Fi, an audio guide in 18 languages and the Sightseeing Amsterdam app at no extra cost. Children aged 0–3 can join for free, and there’s a generous discount for older kids. Use our promo code RVV5 for an extra discount on your tickets. Free rescheduling or cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Hop On – Hop Off XL: Boat & Bus
This combination of boat and bus is particularly rewarding and convenient. For an additional fee of just €5 you can enjoy unlimited rides on the sightseeing bus with a panoramic roof, in addition to unlimited cruising on the canals. This allows you to hop on and off at the numerous stops in the city center as often as you like, making it incredibly easy and cost-effective to explore the city.
‘De Lieve‘: Private Boat Tour on Classic Saloon Boat
‘De Lieve‘ is a perfectly maintained vintage saloon boat from the 1930s. You can sit either inside or outside with a maximum number of 12 people. This boat is owned and operated by a nice couple that takes pride in providing excellent service. They know how to arrange gourmet food and matching drinks.
Blue Sky Boat Canal Cruises
The Blue Sky Boat is owned by Blue Boat Company. This is a refurbished lifeboat that goes out several times a day during summer. The 75 minute tour starts and ends at their dock near Leidseplein, Museum Quarter and Vondelpark.
Amsterdam Canal Cruises
‘Amsterdam Canal Cruises’ is part of the Blue Boat Company and has a similar product range. It stands out with a Kids Cruise and its particular location: directly in front of the Heineken Experience.
Stand up paddling (SUP)
This trendy sport is offered by Kayak & SUP Amsterdam, only on request. They have 1,5 hour introductory classes for a minimum of six people. Their location is at the Amstel river on the south side of the city centre, but at a surcharge other locations are possible.
Those Dam Boat Guys Open Boat Tours
Those Damn Boat Guys are the most unconventional and slightly rebellious canal tour company. They offer an entertaining, humorous and relatively long (90 minutes) boat tour that starts and ends near the Anne Frank House. Open boats in summer, covered in winter.
Lovers Small Boat Cruise
Rederij Plas Amsterdam Canal Cruises
Boaty Bootverhuur ligt aan de zuidkant van het centrum, op loopafstand van het Museumplein, de Albert Cuypmarkt, de Heineken Experience en de RAI. Je kunt bij Boaty twee soorten bootjes huren: volledig open of gedeeltelijk overkapt met zonnepanelen. Boaty heeft maar 12 bootjes beschikbaar. Om zeker te zijn dat er een boot beschikbaar is, raden we je aan vooraf online te reserveren.
To Rederij Plas Canal Cruise
Harbor Safari
The Harbor Safari is a long (three hour) boat tour and very exclusive for two reasons. It departs only a couple of times per year. And it is the only tour that is allowed deep into the more distant and highly restricted parts of the harbour. The explanation is only in Dutch.
Open private boat with skipper ‘Haarlemmerpoort’
The Haarlemmerpoort is a spacious open boat. After a first life as a sturdy lifeboat now it’s serving as a comfortable electric tour boat on the Amsterdam canals. Ideal for private parties up to 32 people. Enjoy the views, the finger food and the drinks on board. Generous cancellation policy in case of bad weather.
‘Valerie’ private luxury boat
‘Valerie’ is a classic 90 year old beauty that combines a royal historic atmoshere with all the modern features for a comfortable private canal tour with business partners, co-workers, friends or family. Groups up to 19 people can enjoy drinks and food on board, both indoors and outdoors. If the weather is nice all windows can be removed.
Pancake Boat Tour
A boat trip with the Pancake Boat is always a great idea! And even more so with children. Enjoy unlimited pancake eating, and for the kids, there’s a ball pit on board. During the 75-minute journey, you’ll get a fantastic glimpse into the harbor area north of the city center. Here, you’ll find impressive architecture and plenty to see on the water, such as cargo ships, cruise ships, and ferries. The trips are available daily at various times. Departure is from the NDSM wharf, easy to reach with the free ferry from Central Station.
Sunday Luxury Lunch Cruise
The Sunday Luxury Lunch Cruise is an extensive canal tour for gourmets. This exclusive canal tour is only available on Sunday afternoons. On an the elegant classic boat you will enjoy a three-course menu along with cold and hot beverages of your choice. Truly special and very relaxing!
Dutch Cheese, Wine & other Drinks Canal Cruise
Indulge in a truly relaxing one-hour canal cruise! This cruise includes a friendly and knowledgeable live guide, as well as complimentary cheese, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Departing from Central Station, you’ll get to see the best city center canals from the comfort of a stylish electric boat. So sit back, relax, and raise a glass to your stay in Amsterdam!
Canal Barge Bota Fogo
The Bota Fogo is a renovated classic barge. This is the perfect boat for drinks or dinners with large groups (up to 75 people). It has a large covered salon, with a roof that can be opened in good weather. Additionally, there is a kitchen, bar, and toilet on board.
Friendship Open Boat Canal Cruises
Boaty Bootverhuur ligt aan de zuidkant van het centrum, op loopafstand van het Museumplein, de Albert Cuypmarkt, de Heineken Experience en de RAI. Je kunt bij Boaty twee soorten bootjes huren: volledig open of gedeeltelijk overkapt met zonnepanelen. Boaty heeft maar 12 bootjes beschikbaar. Om zeker te zijn dat er een boot beschikbaar is, raden we je aan vooraf online te reserveren.
To Friendship
Flagship Open Boat Tour from Anne Frank House
Flagship’s open canal boats also depart from the Anne Frank House. From the open boat, you have a beautiful view of the canals in the city center. Along the way, the guide shares funny and informative tidbits. You can order your favorite drink and a snack at the onboard bar. So sit back, relax and enjoy!
Amsterdam Craft Beer Tasting Boat Tour
The Amsterdam Craft Beer Tasting Boat Tour is a great activity with friends. It combines two of the most enjoyable human inventions: beer and boating. During a nice long boat trip on a fancy classic Amsterdam canal boat you get to taste three local craft beers from different Amsterdam microbreweries. Some warm and cold bites are included as well. Cheers!
