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Best canal cruises in Amsterdam: top ways to see the city from the water
Updated 11 September 2025 at 12:55
Amsterdam is a city built on water. Its 17th-century canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, curves past gabled townhouses, hidden courtyards and neighbourhoods alive with cafés, attractions and galleries. Gliding along these waterways is more than a must-do activity; it’s the most vivid way to experience the city’s energy.
Classic sightseeing cruises
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If you want to see a little of everything, the 100 Highlights Tour is a fantastic introduction to Amsterdam’s big-hitting sights. It’s hard to believe that 100 points of interest (and necessary photo ops) can be seen in less than an hour, but this compact city allows it. Operators like Stromma, Blue Boat Company and LOVERS provide audio sets with recordings available in 19 different languages. The journey follows a complete loop of the city, pointing out iconic highlights such as the Anne Frank House, the A’DAM Tower, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), the centuries-old canal houses on the Herengracht and the historic Jordaan neighbourhood. Large, glass-topped boats mean you stay dry and warm in any season.
Timeless luxury
Image from Sander Baks
For an experience that feels distinctly Dutch, consider a salonboot; a classic wooden saloon boat once favoured by Amsterdam’s elite. These beautifully restored vessels feature polished teak, brass fittings and large windows that open onto the water. Many come with a private captain and onboard catering, from champagne brunches to multi-course dinners. Companies like Rederij De Nederlanden and Smidtje Canal Cruises offer salonboten charters that combine quiet elegance with unbeatable views, perfect for a special celebration or a private group outing.
Open-boat discovery
Image from Kirsten van Santen
If you would rather have a more straightforward day on the water, choose a smaller electric boat with a skipper-guide. Companies such as Those Dam Boat Guys, Flagship Amsterdam and Mokum Open Boat Tours navigate slender waterways that bigger vessels can’t reach. Your skipper doubles as storyteller, sharing neighbourhood secrets and answering questions as you sip a drink and watch locals dangle their feet over the water’s edge. When you’re ready to go off and see the city at your own pace and on your own schedule, you can rent your own boat with Boaty, Mokumboot or Adams Boats. No boating license is required to rent, but always adhere to the rules and regulations.
Cheese, jenever and other indulgences
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Turn a cruise into an evening out! Several boat operators offer drinks, snacks (bitterballen!), tasting menus, and full dining on board, serving multi-course menus as bridges and façades glide past. With low lighting, soft music, and freshly prepared dishes, these cruises feel closer to a floating restaurant than a tour, and they show off Amsterdam’s canals at their most romantic. Each winter, the city transforms into an open-air gallery for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Dozens of international artists create dazzling installations that hover over canals, wrap around bridges and shimmer on historic façades. The works are designed to be viewed from the water, and a dedicated light-festival cruise gives you a front-row seat.
Free cruise with the I amsterdam City Card
Image from Bertel Kolthof
I amsterdam City Card holders enjoy one complimentary canal cruise. No need to book in advance: just show your card at the dock and step aboard the next available departure from participating operators such as Blue Boat, LOVERS, Amsterdam Circle Line Sightseeing, Stromma, Smidtje Canal Cruises, Amsterdam Boat Cruises and Mokum Open Boat Tours. The card also includes free entry to top museums and unlimited public transport, making it excellent value for your trip to Amsterdam.
Tips for a smooth sail
- Book early in busy seasons: Spring (tulip season), summer weekends and the Amsterdam Light Festival in winter all draw large crowds. Reserve your tickets online to secure your preferred time and avoid long queues.
- Pick the right time of day: Morning cruises are quieter and good for photography; sunset and evening departures show the bridges beautifully lit.
- Check the departure point: Major docks such as Centraal Station, Leidseplein, and Museumplein are easily reached by public transport. Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to allow for boarding.
- Dress for the weather: Boats are heated or covered, but waiting areas can be chilly in winter and breezy in summer evenings.
- Accessibility: Many modern boats are wheelchair-friendly with step-free boarding and accessible restrooms
