Amsterdam: Moët & Chandon Gourmet Dinner Cruise

Imagine gliding through Amsterdam’s famously beautiful canals aboard a beautifully restored, heated saloon boat, all while indulging in fine French-inspired cuisine and flowing champagne. That’s what this Moët & Chandon Gourmet Dinner Cruise offers — a mix of elegance, good food, and picture-perfect scenery. While it might not be the most budget-friendly experience out there, the combination of luxury and atmosphere makes it worth considering if you’re craving a special night out in the city.

What makes this cruise stand out for us? First, the 4-course gourmet dinner prepared by a top restaurant brings a real culinary touch to the experience. Second, the stunning illuminated canals of Amsterdam during the cruise provide a magical backdrop that elevates the entire evening. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the dinner cost isn’t included in the base price, so you’ll want to budget extra for that part. This setup suits those seeking a romantic splurge or a memorable way to celebrate a special occasion.

If you’re after a relaxed yet refined way to see Amsterdam’s waterways, enjoy excellent wine, and dine beautifully, this cruise could be just your thing. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to feel a touch fancy while taking in the city’s glittering lights.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: A well-styled, French-inspired dinner cruise with plush seating and candlelit tables.
• Inclusive Champagne: A welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial sets a celebratory tone.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose your dishes from a curated menu, with vegetarian options available.
• Stunning Views: Glide through beautifully lit canals, offering a unique perspective of Amsterdam’s historic center.
• Add-On Options: Enhance your evening with bottles of Moët, Minuty rosé, oysters, or sorbet.
• Cost Consideration: The base price covers only the cruise, with the 4-course dinner paid onboard separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Setting and Arrival

From the moment you arrive at the departure point on Zwanenburgwal, you’re greeted with anticipation. The boat itself exudes elegance, styled in a way that echoes the luxurious branding of Moët & Chandon — think plush seating, floral arrangements, and candlelit ambiance. It’s clear this isn’t just a typical boat tour; it’s a carefully curated dining experience.

Boarding and Welcome

Once aboard, you’ll be offered a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial. This bubbly start sets a celebratory tone and gets you in the mood for an evening of indulgence. The boat is heated, so even if it’s cooler outside, you’ll stay cozy as you settle into your seat.

The Itinerary

The cruise lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, during which you’ll cruise through the illuminated, historic canals of Amsterdam. The route is designed to showcase the city’s most iconic sights from a unique vantage point, especially magical as the city lights reflect off the water.

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The Food

The highlight, of course, is the 4-course gourmet dinner. The menu is French-inspired and curated by a top canal-side restaurant, offering dishes that are both refined and flavorful. You have the option to select from an à la carte menu once onboard, choosing between vegetarian and meat/fish options. If you prefer, you can opt for an all-inclusive meal, which guarantees the meat or fish dishes.

Guests have praised the food for its quality, with reviews like “the food was delicious,” and “great food and amazing ambience.” The menu includes an amuse-bouche, starter, main course, and dessert. The presentation and flavors are designed to complement the champagne pairing, making each bite feel special.

Drinks and Enhancements

While the base ticket includes the initial welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial, most upgrades and additional drinks are pay-onboard. You can enhance your experience with a bottle of Moët or Minuty rosé, or indulge in a pairing like oysters or refreshing sorbet. Many reviewers appreciated the well-chosen wine options, citing them as a highlight, and a few mentioned that the service and hospitality made the evening feel warm and welcoming.

The View and Atmosphere

One of the most beloved aspects, according to reviewers, is the spectacular view of illuminated canals. The boat’s interior is cozy yet elegant, creating an intimate setting. Many reviewers raved about the “beautiful and spacious boat,” with “lovely views of the canals while enjoying dinner.” Even on rainy days, guests still enjoyed the experience, thanks to the boat’s heated interior and covered setup.

Who Is This For?

This cruise is especially suited for couples and small groups celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of glamour to a night out in Amsterdam. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate fine wine, gourmet food, and beautiful scenery, but want to avoid overly crowded or rushed experiences.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience is generally highly praised, the main consideration is the additional cost for the dinner. The base price only includes the cruise, so if you want the full 4-course meal, you’ll pay on board. This means your total spend could be higher than some expect, especially if you add drinks or upgrades. Also, it’s worth noting that the experience is more about the atmosphere and dining than about active sightseeing — so if your main goal is to see all of Amsterdam’s sights in detail, this might not be the best option.

Final Thoughts

The Amsterdam Moët & Chandon Gourmet Dinner Cruise offers a lovely blend of elegance, relaxation, and scenic beauty. The combination of fine French cuisine, flowing champagne, and illuminated canals creates a memorable evening that feels both intimate and indulgent. It’s particularly suited to those looking to celebrate a special moment or simply treat themselves to a luxurious night out.

The experience’s true strength lies in its ambiance and the quality of the food and drinks. Reviewers frequently mention the attentive service, beautiful boat, and the delicious dishes that make the extra cost worthwhile. While it might not be the most economical choice, it certainly feels like a special occasion kind of outing.

If you’re after a classy, scenic cruise with excellent wine and gourmet food, this could very well be your highlight in Amsterdam. Just go into it knowing that the dinner isn’t included in the basic price, and plan accordingly.

FAQ About the Moët & Chandon Gourmet Dinner Cruise

Is the dinner included in the base price?
No, the base price covers only the cruise and the welcome glass of champagne. The 4-course dinner is paid for onboard unless you select a package that includes it.

Can I choose vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available — just ask your host onboard. The menu is French-inspired, with the chance to select meat or fish dishes if you prefer.

What drinks are available onboard?
You start with a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial, and additional drinks like wine, champagne combos, oysters, or sorbet can be purchased onboard.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. You’ll enjoy a scenic route through Amsterdam’s illuminated canals during this time.

Is it suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention celebrating anniversaries and birthdays. The elegant setting makes it ideal for romantic or special celebrations.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

What is the meeting point?
The departure point is at Zwanenburgwal 20, 1011 JC Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While suitable for adults, it’s primarily a romantic and upscale experience. Children could enjoy the scenery, but the focus on fine dining and champagne may not appeal to younger travelers.

In essence, this cruise is about savoring a luxurious slice of Amsterdam life — elegant, scenic, and delicious. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a refined evening, it offers a memorable way to see the city’s glowing waterways.

You can check availability for your dates here: