Amsterdam 90-min Private Canal Cruise with Live Guide and Drinks
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private cruise lets you explore Amsterdam from a small, open boat. Just you, your group and your guide. The route adapts as you go, so you can spend extra time where you like, whether under the Seven Bridges or along the quieter Jordaan canals. Your guide will point out details like the leaning Dancing Houses or the spot where Monet painted. There’s room for questions, or simply watching the city go by.
In the evening, the canals reflect the streetlights and the usual bustle fades. You might pass houseboats with lit windows or hear the occasional bicycle bell in the distance. It’s a slow, unhurried way to see the city, with space to take it all in.
Available options
English 90 minutes
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
What's included
Drinks (Water, Soft drinks, Beer, Prosecco)
Private Tour
Local certified skipper
Live commentary on board
Eco-friendly sightseeing cruise
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Cruise through the narrow, winding canals of Jordaan, a neighborhood known for its artistic spirit and village-like charm. Here, 17th-century homes lean gently over the water, bridges arch gracefully and hidden courtyards tuck behind the canal houses. It’s a quieter, more personal side of the city often overlooked by visitors but beloved by locals.
2
Glide through the heart of Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canal belt, one of the best-preserved 17th-century canal systems in the world. Your guide will point out the grand merchant houses, share tales of the city’s Golden Age and explain how these waterways shaped Amsterdam’s identity. This is where history and daily life flow side by side.
3
Sail along the most prestigious stretch of the Herengracht, where the wealthiest merchants of the Dutch Golden Age built their grandest homes. The opulent facades and stately mansions here reflect a time during the height of Amsterdam’s trading power. Even today, the Golden Bend remains one of the city’s most impressive sights.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Pass under the iconic Seven Bridges on the Reguliersgracht, a well-known sequence of arches that capture the essence of Amsterdam. This is one of the most photographed spots in the city, and for good reason each bridge frames a new perspective of the canals and the life that unfolds along them.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
The Amstel is Amsterdam’s original waterway, where the city’s story began. Today, it’s lined with a mix of historic landmarks and modern architecture, offering a glimpse into how the old and new coexist here. Your guide will share stories of the river’s role in shaping the city, from its medieval origins to its place in Amsterdam today.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Spot the whimsical Dancing Houses, a trio of leaning buildings that seem to sway along the water’s edge. Their playful, off-kilter charm is a reminder that even in a city known for its precision, there’s always room for a little unexpected delight.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Drift past the very canal where Claude Monet set up his easel in 1874, capturing the light and life of Amsterdam in his paintings. The canal still feels recognisable today. Houseboats bob gently, bicycles rest on bridges and the same soft light plays on the water.
What's not included
Food (You may bring your own on-board!)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
106 reviews
5★
99
4★
4
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
178 reviews
5★
173
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation in case of extreme weather. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. Blankets and optional roof available
Meeting point
The skipper will be at the waterside at the exact start time of your tour. You can recognise the boat by: White boat, Blue Roof, Turquoise blue seats, Heart logo on the side, Boat Name is Gordita.
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Museum
2-3 hours
€20
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.
Museum
1.5-2 hours
€20
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.
Historical
1 hour
€16
Dam Square
Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Jordaan
Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.
Neighborhood
A few hours to explore
Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar
Bitterballen
Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal
Snack
Contains meat, gluten, and dairy
Haring
Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth
Dish
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians
Poffertjes
Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy
Popular Activities
Canal kayaking
Bike tours
Escape rooms
Canal cruises
Visiting parks and gardens
Spa and wellness treatments
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center
By train
Amsterdam Centraal
By bus
Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Getting around
Public transport
Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jordaan
De Pijp
De Wallen (Red Light District)
Museumplein
Amsterdam-Noord
Day trips
Zaanse Schans
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.
Haarlem
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.
Utrecht
50 km from Amsterdam • Full day
A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.
Festivals
King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday)
Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October
Pro tips
- Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
- Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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