Private Boat Tours in Amsterdam
A PRIVATE BOAT TOUR IN AMSTERDAM, WHAT’S THAT LIKE?
For a private boat tour, without any others on board, there are two options. The most economical option by far is to rent a self-drive boat. However, that comes with a couple of restrictions: these boats are small, a skipper is not included, the location is fixed and there is no catering. If you want a more customised boat tour and don’t fancy driving yourself, or if you want to take a large group on one boat, then you should rent a private boat with a skipper. The skipper can pick you up and drop you off wherever you like and you can enjoy catered food and drinks. The duration is up to you and -if you want- you may also choose the route. Below is our selection of decent private boat tours. For the luxury version of a private boat tour, please have a look at our luxury/VIP private canal tour section.
PROS OF A PRIVATE BOAT TOUR
- Just your group and the skipper
- Flexible in duration, routes and stops
- Many catering options
CONS OF A PRIVATE BOAT TOUR
- Not allowed to drive yourself
- Relatively expensive for small groups
- Difficult to organise on short notice
OUR SELECTION FOR A DECENT AMSTERDAM PRIVATE BOAT TOUR WITH A SKIPPER
‘Zonneboot’ Private Boat Tour
‘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.
‘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.
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.
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.
Canal Barge Bota Fogo
The Bota Fogo is a large classic barge. It was built in 1890 and completely renovated a couple of years ago. It has a large saloon, a kitchen, a bar, a toilet and a flexible roof that can be opened in case of nice weather. This is the perfect boat for large group tours (up to 75 people) and dinner cruises.