Amsterdam: New & Original Aperol & Limoncello Spritz Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want a relaxed, social way to see the city’s famous canals, this Aperol & Limoncello Spritz cruise might just fit the bill. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a lively, fun experience with a few notable perks — like enjoying quality spritzes on the water and soaking up the city’s sights from a more intimate angle.

What really caught our eye is how this cruise combines refreshing drinks, delicious Italian bites, and insider stories from your skipper, all while cruising past some of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks. On the flip side, it’s important to remember this is an 18+ experience, so no kids or strollers are allowed, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. That said, if you’re an adult looking for a cheerful, scenic break, this could be just what you need.

This tour is perfect for those who want a casual, social outing with a focus on drinks and city views. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a good cocktail, like Aperol Spritz, and want to learn a little about Amsterdam as you go.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique water experience on Amsterdam’s only Aperol Spritz bar on the canals.
• Includes curated Italian snacks like olives and crostinis, perfect for a light bite.
• Cruises through UNESCO World Heritage Canal District for postcard-worthy views.
• Guided by a knowledgeable skipper sharing stories and city secrets.
• Flexible drink options including spritzes, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Duration of 1 hour makes it a quick, enjoyable break during sightseeing.

This isn’t your typical canal cruise. Instead, it’s a lively, water-based happy hour curated for adults who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, social vibe. The boat itself is described as an open boat, which means no glass walls blocking your view — perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the sights with a drink in hand.

Because it passes through smaller, less-travelled canals, you get a fresh perspective on Amsterdam — away from the busy tourist hotspots. The route includes notable sights like Damrak, the NEMO Science Museum, the Magere Brug (a classic drawbridge), Prinsengracht, Brouwersgracht, and the famous Anne Frank House. The skipper acts as your guide, pointing out these landmarks and sharing stories, which makes the cruise not just pretty but also engaging.

The vibe onboard seems to be a mix of casual fun and classy relaxation. Guests rave about the great atmosphere and the knowledgeable hosts, making it a good choice if you’re after a social, upbeat experience. The complimentary bites of olives and crostinis add a nice touch, preventing the drinks from going straight to your head and giving you something to nibble on.

Once you arrive at Damrak 13-15, look for the yellow flags — that’s your sign you’re in the right place. This meeting point is straightforward, and the staff are typically friendly and clear about what to do. The cruise lasts about an hour, giving you just enough time to enjoy the views without it feeling rushed.

As the boat sets off, your skipper begins sharing interesting facts and stories about the city’s history and landmarks. According to reviews, they’re quite knowledgeable — “Jeremy was a great host,” says one traveler, making the experience more personal and engaging.

You’ll cruise past Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canal district, seeing sights like the Magere Brug, which is especially beautiful when lit up at night or during a sunny day. The route also takes you past the NEMO Science Museum, a modern architectural marvel, and the lively Prinsengracht and Brouwersgracht canals.

The highlight, of course, is the drinks. The cruise includes up to three beverages per person, with options spanning from Aperol Spritz and rosé wine to non-alcoholic drinks. The spritzes are fresh and well-made, adding a sense of celebration to your ride. Many reviews mention that the drinks are “quality” and “tasty,” which is always a bonus when you’re paying around $41 for an hour of fun.

Complementing the drinks, the curated Italian bites like olives and crostinis are simple but effective. They’re not elaborate, but they add a touch of authenticity and help balance the alcohol.

The main selling point here is the combined experience of drinks, bites, and sightseeing in a relaxed, social setting. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for something different from the typical city tour — a chance to enjoy the canals with a good drink and some interesting stories.

The small group size and open boat setup mean you’re less likely to feel like you’re just part of a large crowd, which adds to the friendly, intimate atmosphere. Plus, the fact that it passes through less-travelled canals means you’ll get a fresh view of the city, away from the busiest routes.

However, it’s worth noting some limitations. The +18 age restriction means this isn’t suitable for families with children, and there’s no wheelchair access. The cruise’s focus on alcohol and social vibes might also make it less appealing if you’re seeking a more educational or family-friendly experience.

From reviews, the cruise is well-organized, and the guides are praised for their storytelling. But, since this is a short, one-hour trip, don’t expect a deep dive into Amsterdam’s history — it’s more about the fun and scenery.

If you’re considering other options, this cruise offers a more casual, social atmosphere than some luxury or classic boat tours, which might focus more on elegance or detailed history. The unlimited drinks options in other tours could be appealing if you’re a heavy drinker, but here, you get up to three drinks included, which is enough for a lively hour.

Other tours listed, like the luxury cruise or small-group options, tend to be pricier and more refined, whereas this one strikes a good balance between fun and affordability. It’s more about enjoying the moment with friends or fellow travelers rather than a formal experience.

At $41 per person, this cruise offers solid value for an hour of entertainment, scenic views, and good drinks. The quality of the spritzes and the curated bites help justify the cost. Plus, the fact that it’s a small, open boat makes it feel more personal than large city cruises.

If you’re a fan of casual drinking experiences with a scenic backdrop and some local storytelling, this is a straightforward pick. Just be aware of the age restrictions and the lack of accessibility if those are important to you.

This experience works best for adults who want a fun, social way to see Amsterdam’s canals, especially if they enjoy cocktails and light bites. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples looking for a relaxed date, or anyone wanting a low-key, memorable water tour.

It’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues, families with young kids, or those looking for a detailed historical narration. If you’re in the mood for a lively, drink-focused cruise that combines iconic views with a good vibe, then this one might be just perfect.

Absolutely, if your goal is to enjoy Amsterdam’s canals with a refreshing drink in hand and some lively company. It’s a lighthearted and well-organized experience that’s more about the fun of the moment than deep historical insights. Expect stunning canal views, quality spritzes, and friendly guidance from your skipper.

If you’re after a short and sweet way to spice up your sightseeing, it offers a lively atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and a touch of Italian flair on the water. Just keep in mind the restrictions — no kids, no wheelchairs — and plan your day around that.

In essence, this cruise is a fantastic choice for adults who want to unwind with a drink, some bites, and a view. It isn’t a deep dive into Amsterdam’s history but rather a cheerful, enjoyable way to experience the city’s charm.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
No, this is an +18 cruise, so children under 18 are not allowed to board.

Are there non-alcoholic options?
Yes, there are non-alcoholic drinks available alongside spritzes and wine.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour, making it a quick but enjoyable activity.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Look for the yellow Canal Tours Amsterdam flags and the yellow store at Pier 6, Damrak 13-15.

Is there wheelchair access?
No, wheelchair access is not available for this experience.

Can I sit with my friends?
Yes, just make sure to book all tickets for your group in one reservation.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll cruise past Damrak, NEMO Science Museum, Magere Brug, Prinsengracht, Brouwersgracht, and the Anne Frank House.

What’s included in the price?
Up to three drinks (spritz, wine, or non-alcoholic), curated bites like olives and crostinis, and a guided 1-hour cruise.

Is the guide informative?
Yes, your skipper shares stories and facts about the city’s sights, adding a layer of local insight.

This review should help you decide whether this lively water tour fits your Amsterdam plans. Whether you want a lighthearted way to see the city or just need a break with a refreshing drink, it offers a memorable and cheerful experience you’re unlikely to forget.