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Amsterdam Canal Cruise Companies: A Complete Guide to Exploring the city by Water

What’s the best Amsterdam canal cruise is one of the top questions asked about the city. Amsterdam is a city made for water travel. With over 100 kilometers of canals, more than 1,500 bridges and the world-famous UNESCO Canal Belt weaving through the heart of the city, taking a canal cruise is a must for any visitor.  

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, there’s something magical about seeing the city from the water. The view is from a different perspective, the pace is slower, the vibe is calm and you get to experience the true essence of Amsterdam. If you have an opportunity to book a morning canal cruise, this truly is a magical time of day to see Amsterdam! 

With so many companies offering canal cruises, how do you know which ones will give you a true Dutch experience versus just another tourist trap? This guide breaks down the best canal cruise companies in Amsterdam, from small group tours to private luxury rides and even renting your own boat. Plus, we’ll cover what to skip and where else in the Netherlands you can enjoy canal cruise tours. There are even an extra few suggested cruises for cannabis enthusiasts!

Why Every Amsterdam Visitor Should Take a Canal Cruise?

Amsterdam’s canals aren’t just postcard pretty, they are an extension of the city’s streets. They were designed in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age, forming a planned urban network that shaped the city’s expansion and economy. Today, they’re still used to transport goods, move quickly around the city-center, recreation and the best way for a tourist with limited time to see Amsterdam! 

Cruising the canals lets you:

  • See iconic sites like the Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, Rijksmuseum and the Skinny Bridge from a new angle.
  • Learn about Amsterdam’s history and see examples of its quirky architecture. Some of the best stories from the Golden Age take place in the three most famous canals.
  • Relax and recharge while floating past trees, bikes, tulips and centuries-old canal houses. There is lots of walking and biking in Amsterdam, boating is one of the only relaxing ways to see the city.
  • Capture stunning photos from a unique perspective with the ability to include yourself in the background. From the water, there are also less tourists in the background.
  • Experience local life, watching houseboats, boat parties and romantic moments all float around you. You might also catch a glimpse inside the homes of the everyday Dutch. They are notorious for not closing their curtains, happy to display their homes and more sometimes.

You can’t say you’ve seen Amsterdam until you’ve seen it from the water. I always recommend at least two canal cruises, one during the day and one at night. Even if the captain took the exact same route, it is a completely different experience seeing the city during the day versus the night. 

Enjoy a Day Cruise

A daytime cruise is perfect for first-timers who want to orient themselves with the city. You’ll glide past famous landmarks, wave to locals on bridges and get clear, vibrant views of canal life. Opt for an open boat when the weather allows, there’s nothing like cruising under blue skies with a breeze on your face. Most boats have blankets and even heated seats to allow these open-air cruises even in the winter. 

The better tours include commentary from a Dutch captain, drinks & snack options and can be from 1-2 hours. Other cruises are more relaxed, so relaxed you can smoke and sightsee at the same time. Early morning cruises are the best time to enjoy the serenity of the canals before the tourists come out and the crowds get thick. Day cruises are a great first activity when you arrive after a red-eye flight and want to get your bearings, but don’t have the energy for a walking tour yet. 

Enjoy a Night Cruise

As the sun sets, the canals shimmer with light. Houseboats glow, bridges sparkle with tiny bulbs and the whole city takes on a romantic feeling. Night cruises are ideal for couples, but not only for those looking for romance. Anyone looking to unwind with beautiful views will love an evening cruise in Amsterdam.

The quieter vibe in the evenings also means fewer boats and a more intimate experience. Some companies offer wine and cheese tastings, candlelit ambiance or private boat rides under the stars for that perfect romantic setting. There are options for boat rides with dinner included too, but I suggest skipping the dinner and sticking with drinks & snacks. There are so many amazing restaurants, especially in the Jordaan neighborhood and near Central Station, there is no time for mediocre food!  

What Boats to Skip

Not all canal cruises are created equal. The large, enclosed boats you’ll see clustered around Central Station and the main canals often feel like tour buses on water. They’re packed, generic and mostly feature pre-recorded commentary. Depending on the time of year, they can be overcrowded or underutilized and cold. Skips companies like Lovers, Canal Gray Line and Stromma… even thought they might be the first you encounter outside of the train station. 

The Dutch are so well educated in languages there are captains that offer tours in far more options than just Dutch and English. There are offerings in Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian and more.  However, for tourists who speak Chinese or Indian and want a commentary in their language the larger boats have 20+ options. While these boats serve a purpose, you’ll get a far richer experience on smaller, more personal boats.

Choose the best canal cruise in a sea of options.
Choose the best canal cruise in a sea of options.
Amsterdam Canal Cruises in the Jordaan
Amsterdam Canal Cruises in the Jordaan

Where to Find Canal Cruises in Amsterdam?

Even though Central Station has lots of tourist trap boats, don’t dismiss Central Station altogether. Many of the best smaller companies depart from docks in front of Central Station. The three most popular areas to catch a canal boat are:

  1. In front of Central Station – Look for smaller, stylish boats with limited seating
  2. Outside of the Anne Frank House – A quieter stretch near the Jordaan
  3. Outside of the Rijksmuseum – Gorgeous views and boutique options

There are smaller companies that offer some of the best experiences in Amsterdam sprinkled throughout the canal belt. You’ll also find luxury and private boats moored in the Jordaan neighborhood, perfect if you want to pop the question with the best background and photos ever! 

Top Canal Cruise Recommendations in Amsterdam

The top canal cruise companies deliver unforgettable experiences on the water. Hubby and I have enjoyed many cruises in Amsterdam, especially in our beloved Jordaan Neighborhood. Each of these companies have a great experience and authentic experience without just being another tourist. Choose the perfect location and cruise for your group and needs. 

Flagship is the #1 Canal Cruise Recommendation in Amsterdam

Flagship Amsterdam, with the infamous orange crew jackets and cushions on the boat takes my #1 recommended for the most versatile Amsterdam canal cruise. This cruise is appropriate from kids to seniors and everyone in between with the most dock locations around the city. No matter where your hotel is located in the city, there is a Flagship boat in a canal near you. 

Flagship also hosts many party and celebration canal cruises for visitors and locals alike. If you are visiting during a certain time of year or celebration, be sure to book your canal cruise tickets ahead of time. However, for general canal cruises, I often recommend travelers not book ahead and just get the next Flagship cruise that leaves from behind the Anne Frank House all day and all night. This way delayed flights and jet lag don’t mess up your plans. But if it does, like the first visit for my kids did, Flagship has the best customer service around! Just talk to them.  

Why they are a great option: Flagship has become one of the go-to companies for high-quality, small group canal tours. Their open boats are elegant, their staff friendly and their routes cover both must-see highlights and hidden gems. Known for: First-timers who want a beautiful overview with excellent service, knowledgeable, local skippers and drinks/snacks onboard. Also known for themed party and celebration cruises.

Flagship Canal Cruises, best overall canal cruise in Amsterdam.
Flagship Canal Cruises, best overall canal cruise in Amsterdam.
Flagship & Captain Jack Canal Cruises outside of the Rijksmuseum
Flagship & Captain Jack Canal Cruises outside of the Rijksmuseum

Captain Dave

Captain Dave is a local legend known for his humor, honesty and love of the city. His cruises are informal, insightful and often include stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Plus Captain Dave is known for giving lots of insider tips of Amsterdam. Best for: Travelers down-to-earth vibe who love storytelling, humor and connection. The dock location is located in the Jordaan Neighborhood, off Prinsengracht just south of the Anne Frank House. 

These cruises only allow 12 people max, so they will all be small and intimate. Captain Dave offers both an Early morning (8:00 & 8:30 AM) and Morning cruise (10:00 & 10:30) to see Amsterdam in its most pure sense. On a recent trip, hubby and I went on our first early morning cruise of Amsterdam, thanks to jetlag. But it was the most beautiful, calm morning on the canals and now one of my favorite times to go! Captain Dave also offers 90 minute afternoon and evening cruises and can even accommodate private cruises. 

Those Dam Boat Guys

Why it’s great: Quirky, fun and unfiltered, this irreverent team brings humor and authenticity to the table. The guides are more like friends showing you their city than formal tour leaders. The small boat pulls up on the Keizersgracht, just steps from Cafe de Knoop. Your meeting point is also a pub that the company has opened with its initial success. This also has the best bathroom system before and after a cruise in my opinion…bathrooms are a big luxury in Amsterdam! 

Best for: Travelers who want something different and don’t take themselves too seriously (adults only). Also great for visitors that want to take advantage of adding a walking and/or bike tour as well. BYOB policy on Those Dam Boat Guys tours can refer to cannabis too, and can become cannabis friendly cruises if you ask. These rides are super chill and interactive with lots of off-the-beaten-path routes.

Captain Jack

While orange is the national color of Dutch pride and you’ll see it everywhere, especially around King’s Day, Captain Jack Canal Cruises goes a different direction…hot pink! These cruises are found outside the Rijksmuseum, in Central Station & near the Anne Frank House and off a great mix of sightseeing and local lore. Private tours are also available. 

These cruises are a great option for a comfortable, scenic experience led by Captain Jack, who has a flair for storytelling and ensuring his guests feel at home. His boats are cozy and conversations flow easily. Best for: Small groups and relaxed explorers who like personalized routes and complimentary drinks. 

Voyage Amsterdam

Voyage Amsterdam offers a luxurious and intimate canal cruising experience that blends classic Dutch charm with modern comfort. This is a new company on the iconic canals to serve higher end cruises, with prices in the $50-60 range (versus the $35 range). Their small-group tours, limited to 16 guests, ensure a personalized journey through Amsterdam’s iconic waterways. 

With a focus on high-end service, Voyage Amsterdam provides an exceptional way to explore the city’s historic canals. Best for: Travelers seeking a premium, intimate canal cruise experience with top-notch service and amenities. Live guide sharing rich history and local insights, luxurious boats with elegant interiors and evening cruises showcasing the illuminated bridges and canals of Amsterdam. 

Amsterdam Boat Adventures

Located on the east side of the Keizergracht, Amsterdam Boat Adventures are found on a small moor next to the H’ART Museum. This company combines comfort with flexibility. Their electric boats are silent, sustainable and super comfortable. They offer daily tours, but also great private options. Best for: Daytime exploring with good vibes, eco-friendly boats and great for families and groups of friends. 

The Most Romantic Routes in Amsterdam

If you are looking for the most romantic routes on the Amsterdam canals, consider some of these small, private (and semi-private) companies. The canals themselves are your venue, but visitors always ask which ones make the most memorable cruise? These are some of our favorite canals: 

  • Prinsengracht (princes canal): Home to the Anne Frank House, Westerkerk and flower-covered bridges. This canal offers iconic views and dramatic backdrops in the heart of the Jordaan Neighborhood.
  • Keizersgracht (Emperors canal): Quieter and wider, ideal for slower cruises and dreamy reflections on the water. This was the canal one of our favorite apartments is located and always one of our favorite spots out west, but is just as great on the east side of town too.
  • Herengracht (Gentleman’s canal): Classic Golden Age houses, luxury hotels and romantic reflections, especially at dusk. This is the canal with the wealthiest homes, at €10-15 million per canal house!
  • Jordaan back canals: The Jordaan Neighborhood is always our favorite place to spend time in Amsterdam. The canals are more intimate, with narrow waterways and picturesque houseboats that feel like a secret Amsterdam.
  • Amstel River at Sunset: Cruise past the Magere Brug, known as the Skinny Bridge, as the sun sets and lights begin to twinkle… talk about romance. The Amstel is where the waterways really open up and everyone is out and about on a beautiful evening. 

Honestly, there are no bad itineraries in Amsterdam. So hop on a boat and get exploring the highway of canals 

The Best Specialty Canal Cruise Experiences in Amsterdam

VR Voyage

For the newest canal cruise attraction on the waters of Amsterdam, join the VR Voyage boat tour. The most unique experience on the canals, go back 400 years and take a look around to see your surroundings just like it was during the 17th century. The VR headsets are not worn during the whole 75 minute cruise, so travelers still get to experience the beauty of current day Amsterdam as well. Go to the website to see a trailer of the VR voyages experiences and book your ticket. 

Pure Boats

Elegant, curated and stylish, Pure Boats focuses on hospitality and detail. Beautiful boats and amazing hosts. With amazing shared experiences from 2-hour, ultimate canal cruise tours to sunset and tasting cruises available. Private cruises in the morning with a private brunch cruise, or a high tea cruise in the afternoon or a proposal cruise late into the evening.  

Think handpicked wine, locally made snacks and tasteful interiors, Pure Boats are gourmet experiences on water, if you’re choosing a shared or private experience. Best for: Foodies and design lovers and others who want a bit more elegance on the canals.

Romantic Amsterdam Boat Tour

Perfect for couples, this tour focuses on intimacy, beauty and atmosphere. Expect blankets, candlelight and soft music as you cruise the city’s most scenic canals at twilight. Private or semi-private options available perfect for proposals and anniversary packages. Best for: Romantic travelers and special occasions with champagne, roses and personalized touches. Additional personalized options and proposal locations. 

The Best Family Canal Cruise Experiences in Amsterdam

Blue Boat Cruise

The Blue Boat Cruise is not one of the boats I typically recommend. But for travelers with young children or needing wheelchair accessibility it’s a great option. Children are introduced to Johnny, a mouse pirate, and his friend Harold the cat to bring the canals to life. All children’s tickets include this commentary, a booklet with games, a pair of pirate-binoculars and there is an optional snack box to keep your little pirates fed and entertained while parents can catch the sights of Amsterdam. 

With large panoramic windows and engaging audio commentary, the cruise offers a front-row seat to Amsterdam’s most beautiful canals, bridges and architecture. The boats are modern, covered and heated which is perfect for winter sightseeing. There are two docks for Blue Boat Cruises, across the canal from The Heineken Experience and Hard Rock Cafe in the heart of central Amsterdam. The Hard Rock Cafe also offers great food options for picky eaters, both children and adults. 

The Flagship Cookie Cruise adds a delicious twist to canal cruising… freshly baked cookies! A complimentary drink and cookie from Het Koekemanneetje while gliding through Amsterdam’s scenic waterways is sure to attract children. Hosted on small, open-air electric boats with friendly local skippers, this cruise offers an intimate, relaxed experience that’s both tasty and picturesque. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a touch of Dutch sweetness.

Best for: Families, and food lovers looking for a fun, cozy, and flavorful way to enjoy Amsterdam’s canals. Includes warm, freshly baked Dutch cookies and a drink of your choice. Passes by iconic sights in the Jordaan as well as the Skinny Bridge and Rijksmuseum in a relaxed, intimate atmosphere perfect for families or couples on date night. 

Hop on/Hop off Boat Tours

Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tours offer a flexible and easy way to explore Amsterdam’s canals and top attractions at your own pace. With multiple stops along the major canal routes, this service is ideal for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with transportation. The boats are frequent, accessible and provide an efficient overview of the city without the need to navigate trams or buses. 

Best for: Cruise vacation visitors and families who want to sightsee at a relaxed pace while enjoying the freedom to explore Amsterdam’s attractions on their own schedule. Be sure to skip the bus option with the Hop on/Hop off tour since it drives around the city on the motorway and a complete waste of time. 

The Best Rent Your Own Boat Experiences in Amsterdam

One of the most unique ways to experience Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canal belt is by captaining your own boat. No boating license is required, so visitors can rent their own boats. Then they can explore the canals at their own pace and pick their own route. This hands-on adventure offers a sense of freedom and fun as you navigate past historic canal houses, twinkling bridges and charming houseboats. Whether you’re cruising on a paddle board or an electric mini-boat, steering your own vessel lets you see the city from a new perspective. Make your reservations at one of these rental companies: 

MOKUMBOOT– is a company that hosts canal cruises and private canal cruises, but they also rent boats to visitors who want to take to the canals on their own. Boats are small, for 6 passengers max, pick up locations are convenient with locations all over the city. MOKUMBOOT is the best option if you want to rent your own small party boat to enjoy the full day celebrating King’s Day, Pride or the Amsterdam Light Festival. 

Adam’s Boats– If you’re staying on the east side of town, choose one of Adam’s Boats for your group of 10 or less. Choose an itinerary provided by Adam’s Boats or create your own route to see the famous sights of Amsterdam’s canals. This is another company that allows visitors to rent their own boat to party on the canals during King’s Day. 

Canal Sup– H3 For those who want to power their own vessel, try renting a SUP (Stand Up Paddle Board) that is large and stable. Wetsuits can be rented for €5.00 extra, but are not needed in the warm summer weather. Anyone, any age who is a good swimmer can try SUP without any experience needed, just a little balance. 

Cannabis-Friendly Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s world-famous cannabis culture extends to the water with a handful of smoke boats. These cannabis-friendly canal cruises offer a laid-back, legal and unique way to enjoy the city and smoke. These cruises allow you to relax with your favorite strain (the cruises are BYOB) while floating past historic bridges and iconic canal houses. It’s a great option for travelers who want to experience Amsterdam’s coffeeshop culture in a more scenic setting. Also a great option for couples or groups where some are smokers and others are not, as long as everyone is 18+. Those Dam Boat Guys also allow cannabis on their cruises, but they are not marketed as cannabis cruises.

Smokeboat Canal Cruise, small boat for 20 guests
Smokeboat Canal Cruise, small boat for 20 guests

Smoke Boat Cruise

Why it’s great: Amsterdam is known for its cannabis culture, and this cruise embraces it. The Smoke Boat is one of the few cruises in the city where smoking is allowed. Cannabis cruises are legal, safe and a low-key environment to see the sights and enjoy a smoke. Best for: Curious travelers and cannabis enthusiasts.

Buddha Boat

Warm lighting, Eastern-inspired decor and a slow cruise pace, Buddha Boat brings mindfulness and zen to the canals. Asian-themed snacks and drinks served in a cozy atmosphere. Great for evening relaxation or a spiritual recharge. Best for: Relaxation and reflection in a peaceful meditative vibe. 

Bulldog Boat Tour

The Bulldog is one of the oldest and most infamous coffeeshops in Amsterdam. But for those in the cannabis world for quality of strain steer clear of this brand of weed. But on a smoke boat cruise, you can bring on your favorite bud, no questions asked. The boat has an indoor area to warm up or take a break from the wind, but its mostly outside for the best views of the city. Best for: Those who like chill music and vibes. 

Amsterdam Parties on the Water as Much as Land

For two months, from mid-March to mid-May, Flower Season in Amsterdam is in full swing. The Dutch take to the canals in boats of varying size for just about every celebration the city enjoys together. The Spring season brings flower worshippers to the Netherlands, looking for iconic tulips and flower fields dotting the country-side. Canal cruises across Amsterdam will be adorned with flower focused boats to allow visitors the perfect photo opportunities while taking in the sights. 

King’s Day is celebrated at the end of April each year and the canals turn from a colorful landscape into a sea of orange-wearing partiers. They wear orange from head to toe and paint Dutch flags on their faces in celebration of the Dutch King, since he is from the House of Orange. The canal ring in the Jordaan Neighborhood is the epicenter of this epic 2-day party!  

King's Day Boats lined up to take partiers around the canals
King’s Day Boats lined up to take partiers around the canals
Anne Frank House with Flagship boat in front on the canal
Anne Frank House with Flagship boat in front on the canal
King's Day Craziness, boats on the canal with orange smoke bombs
King’s Day Craziness, boats on the canal with orange smoke bombs

The first weekend in August the partiers transition from orange only to a rainbow of colors to celebrate Dutch Pride. Dutch pride shines brightly on Amsterdam’s canals, where the nation’s deep connection to water comes to life. The canals reflect not only the Netherlands’ mastery of engineering and design but also its enduring sense of community, creativity and strong sense of tolerance.

Amsterdam Sail, an Event 5 Years in the Making

Sail Amsterdam happened last in 2025 with the next event in 5 years. Sail Amsterdam is one of the world’s largest maritime events, held in the Dutch capital. During this spectacular celebration of ships, the city’s harbor transforms into a sea of towering masts and colorful sails. Hundreds of historic tall ships, naval vessels, and modern boats from around the world gather along the IJ River. The atmosphere is festive and distinctly Dutch and an unforgettable experience for locals and international visitors alike.

As the months turn cooler, no one stays off the canals. Instead, in October the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) takes over the city and its music venues in and around the city pump out music across the city. Partiers and DJ’s take to the boats in Amsterdam and take the party on the water. Canal cruises take partiers on rides for a more intimate experience with some of the year’s DJ’s. 

Finally, Amsterdam illuminates Christmas and the winter season from late November to mid-January with the Amsterdam Light Festival. As winter sets in, the city’s waterways transform into a glittering open-air gallery, with dazzling light installations created by artists from around the world. The light festival can be enjoyed around the city by foot or boat, but cruising the waterways always gives a better experience. 

Getting Married or Engaged on a Private Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

There’s something inherently romantic about Amsterdam’s canals, the way the water sparkles in the golden hour, the curve of bridges reflected beneath 17th-century buildings, the gentle sway of boats gliding past tree-lined embankments. Now imagine saying “I do” in the heart of the romantic canals, surrounded by water, history and the charm of the city that feels like a fairytale. Getting married on a canal cruise in Amsterdam isn’t just unforgettable, it’s effortless, intimate and uniquely Dutch. 

Why Choose a Canal Cruise Proposal?

Some travelers may fantasise about the idea of a European wedding on a private canal cruise in Amsterdam’s famous canal belt. But for many, this is not practical nor affordable. However, Amsterdam’s canals make a beautiful backdrop for a private proposal your love will never forget! Additionally, the backdrop of the canals and bridges of Amsterdam will provide amazing proposal and engagement photos. What an amazing story to remember for a lifetime! 

Why Choose a Canal Cruise Wedding?

Amsterdam is already one of the most picturesque wedding destinations in Europe, but taking your vows on a canal boat elevates the entire experience. The scenery is unmatched—from historic canal houses to glowing bridges and flower-decked houseboats in spring. The setting is intimate because the small boats create a cozy atmosphere for you and your guests, or just the couple. 

For practicality, a canal cruise wedding features an all-in-one experience far from the typical tropical destinations. Your venue, ceremony and reception travel with you and canal cruises are endlessly customizable from boat to theme to time of day. The hardest decision will be to choose between a peaceful morning ceremony or a sunset/evening options. The lights twinkled on the water in a romantic environment. Whether you’re eloping, hosting a small destination wedding or renewing your vows, a canal cruise makes your big day feel truly special.

Best Canal Cruise Companies for Weddings

Several top-rated cruise companies in Amsterdam specialize in wedding ceremonies and private ceremonies and events. These companies offer everything from basic boat rentals to fully catered wedding packages.

  • Pure Boats Elegant, modern boats with wooden decks and plush interiors. Offers full wedding coordination and floral styling, known for curated local drinks and gourmet catering. Ideal for intimate gatherings and stylish micro-weddings. 
  • Romantic Amsterdam Boat TourTailored specifically for couples for proposals and vow renewals, include candlelit décor, live music and champagne service. Perfect for elopements or symbolic “just us” ceremonies.
  • Captain Jack Voyage AmsterdamA warm, personal experience with a charming local guide. Flexible to your plans and timing and great for smaller ceremonies with storytelling and relaxed vibes. 
  • Flagship Amsterdam– Private Events with a range of boats for up to 50 guests. Works with planners to create perfect wedding packages. Perfect if you want a bigger celebration or post-wedding canal party.
  • Those Dam Boat Guys– Quirky wedding, for the fun-loving couple who wants laughter, beer and a laid-back ceremony. Great for small, non-traditional weddings or vow renewals in casual or intimate settings. 
  • Romantic Amsterdam Tour– Offers great proposal packages with all the planning (and even photos) included. This one-stop proposal canal cruise offers an upgrade to a Saloon Boat and can even include lunch or dinner on the boat. 
  • Rent A Boat Amsterdam– All-in-one boat and wedding planning packages offered. 

Getting engaged or married on a canal cruise in Amsterdam is more than a wedding, it’s a story. With the city’s timeless beauty, the gentle rhythm of the water and the intimacy of a boat beneath the stars, it’s the perfect way to begin your next chapter. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s both romantic and unforgettable, Amsterdam’s canals are the perfect European setting.

Pure Boats Canal on the Keizergracht
Pure Boats Canal on the Keizergracht
Laura & Ken on Pure Boats Canal Cruise
Laura & Ken on Pure Boats Canal Cruise
These Damn Boat Guys Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
These Damn Boat Guys Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

Other Dutch Cities with Great Canal Cruises

Amsterdam isn’t the only city with dreamy waterways in the Netherlands. Several other Dutch towns offer charming canal experiences with fewer crowds and just as much history:

  • Haarlem– Just 15 minutes from Amsterdam, with lovely canals plus medieval streets and great shopping. Easy day trip option from Amsterdam with boat rentals available. 
  • Utrecht– Narrow, winding canals with unique werfkelders (canal-side cellars). Utrecht is romantic and less touristy with great for dinner cruises and relaxed rides. 
  • Leiden– A university town with picturesque canals and historic buildings. Fun for student history tours or garden cruises in spring and less crowds than Amsterdam. 
  • Delft- Home of Vermeer and blue pottery, with canals that are narrower and intimate. 
  • Geithoorn– Known as the “Dutch Venice” there are no roads in the old center and accessible by boats and bikes only. Rent a whisper boat or take a guided tour past thatched-roof homes, but consider the off season since Geithoorn is incredibly busy in the summer months. 

Final Thoughts on Canal Cruises

A canal cruise in Amsterdam isn’t just a tourist activity, it’s a rite of passage. Whether you’re sipping wine at sunset, laughing with friends on a boat or gliding silently through hidden passages, you’re seeing the city as it was meant to be seen, from the water.

With so many fantastic companies offering unique experiences, you can find the perfect fit for your style, mood and itinerary. Just avoid the big mass-market boats and go for something smaller, slower and more soulful. Don’t forget your camera, these canals know how to shine.

What is Wanderlust in Amsterdam?

Check out my website at LauraMarieMyers.com/wanderlust to read additional Amsterdam blogs, see all my best Amsterdam recommendations and download my free Amsterdam Bucket List. Newsletters are coming soon to get inspiration for your own travels and adventures. Join my email list so you never miss a blog. As an Amsterdam travel consultant, let me help you make the most of your time and budget in Amsterdam, no matter how much time you have to spend!

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