The Hague: Private Boattour up to 10 persons

Taking a boat tour through the canals of The Hague might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your trip, but it’s a surprisingly peaceful and charming way to see this vibrant city. We’ve looked into a private boattour offered by Vaartocht Valenthe, designed for groups up to 10 people, and it seems like a wonderful option for those wanting a relaxed, eco-friendly way to explore the city’s waterways. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a small group of new acquaintances, this experience offers a good mix of comfort and scenic beauty.

What really caught our eye is the 100% electric boat—a rare find that emphasizes sustainability without sacrificing fun. Plus, the flexibility to bring your own snacks or let them handle the catering means you can make the cruise feel just right for your vibe. And don’t worry about weather; the operator mentions they’re experienced enough to handle less-than-perfect days, which can be a real plus if you’re visiting outside of the peak summer months.

That said, there are a few considerations. The tour isn’t tailored as a guided experience—you’re on a boat with a skipper but no dedicated guide, so if you’re hoping for in-depth commentary or historical insights, this might not be the ideal fit. Also, the route is fixed but flexible enough to accommodate specific wishes, which offers some personalized touch but may not be as in-depth as larger sightseeing tours.

This tour seems best suited for small groups wanting a relaxed, intimate, and environmentally friendly way to see The Hague’s canals. It’s perfect if you’re after a laid-back cruise with lovely views, some casual snacks, and the chance to enjoy the city from a whole new angle.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly experience: A 100% electric boat ensures a quiet, emissions-free cruise.
• Flexible options: Bring your own snacks and drinks or opt for Dutch treats and beverages on board.
• Comfortable group size: Suitable for up to 10 adults plus 2 children, making it ideal for small groups.
• Customizable route: The route includes the city center canal area but can be adjusted to suit your wishes.
• Relaxed pace: The 75-minute duration offers a laid-back way to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.
• Weather flexibility: The operator is experienced enough to handle less-than-ideal weather, so don’t worry too much about rain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This private boattour starts right across from the Hilton Hotel, placing you conveniently in the heart of The Hague. Once aboard, you’ll quickly notice the boat’s open design and clean, modern look—no noisy engines here, just a smooth ride powered by electricity. With a maximum capacity of 10 adults or 12 people including children, it creates an intimate setting perfect for small groups or families.

The skipper is included, so you can sit back and enjoy the view without the stress of navigating. While there’s no guide providing narration, the route takes you through the central canals and around the city, showcasing some of the most picturesque spots. The fixed route covers The Hague’s heart, but the team is happy to accommodate specific requests—perhaps a favorite spot or a quick detour for photos.

What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility around refreshments. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, which is great if you have specific preferences or want to keep things casual. Alternatively, the operator offers Dutch fried snacks called bitterballen, along with two drinks for €12.50 per person, or a bottle of wine for €15. Paying cash on-site is straightforward, and this option adds a cozy, social element to the cruise.

The boat is open but can handle various weather conditions. While the description notes that they can manage through less favorable weather, it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast—you might want an umbrella or raincoat just in case. The 75-minute cruise is a comfortable length, giving you enough time to relax and take in the views without feeling overwhelmed.

What You’ll See and Experience

During the tour, you’ll glide through The Hague’s charming canals, passing by notable sights in the city center. The views are described as stunning, especially with the water reflecting the city’s beautiful architecture. Many reviews highlight how different the city looks from the water—more relaxed and picturesque than from street level.

Since the route is fixed but flexible, you might find your skipper accommodating special requests, whether that’s a quick photo stop or a specific stretch of canal you’re eager to see again. The experience is designed for relaxation, not hurried sightseeing, meaning you can truly enjoy the peaceful ambiance of floating through the city’s waterways.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 19 reviews indicates that most travelers find this experience enjoyable and worthwhile. Commenters often mention the stunning views as a high point. One review notes, “We loved the way the boat provided a new perspective on the city’s beauty,” which captures the general sentiment.

Some travelers appreciated the flexibility of bringing their own snacks and drinks or opting for the available Dutch treats. The fact that it’s a private group experience means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, fostering a more relaxed atmosphere. The ability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before and the option to reserve without immediate payment adds to the appeal for flexibility-minded travelers.

Value for Money

At $199 per group (up to 6 people), the price is quite reasonable when you consider the private nature of the tour and the included skipper. For small groups, this is an intimate, eco-conscious way to see the city without the crowds or noise of larger boats. The optional snacks and drinks add a bit to the overall cost but can be tailored to your preferences, making it a customizable experience.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a laid-back, eco-friendly cruise with beautiful views of The Hague, this private electric boat is a solid choice. It’s suitable for small groups of friends, couples, or families with children (up to 2 kids), especially if you love the idea of bringing your own snacks and creating a personalized experience. It’s not ideal if you want a guided tour with historical commentary or are seeking a more energetic, large-group experience.

This tour is especially good for those who value flexibility, comfort, and sustainability. If weather is a concern, the operators’ experience in handling it means you can plan with a bit more confidence. Plus, the opportunity to see The Hague from a different vantage point—calm, close-up, and intimate—can really enhance your overall impression of the city.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the boat can accommodate up to 12 people, including children, making it family-friendly for small groups with kids.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to bring your own snacks and drinks to make the cruise more personal and relaxed.

What if I want Dutch treats or drinks on board?
You can order bitterballen and two drinks for €12.50 per person or a bottle of wine for €15. Payment is on the spot, cash preferred.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, giving you a comfortable window to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Do I need to worry about weather?
The operator has experience managing less-than-perfect weather, but it’s wise to check the forecast and bring suitable rain gear if needed.

Where does the tour start and end?
Start point is across from the Hilton Hotel, and the cruise finishes back at the same spot.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure.

Is this a guided commentary tour?
No, it’s a private boat with a skipper but no guide, so it’s more about the experience and views than detailed commentary.

If you’re after a peaceful, personalized way to see The Hague, this private electric boat tour might just be your best bet. The ability to enjoy the city’s waterways without the noise or fumes of traditional boats, combined with the flexibility to bring your own snacks or indulge in Dutch treats, makes it a relaxed and enjoyable outing.

It’s particularly ideal for small groups looking for an intimate experience, especially if you’re mindful of sustainability. While it’s not a guided tour with historical commentary, the views alone—reflected in the glowing reviews—make this a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

For those who appreciate calm, comfort, and a different perspective on The Hague, this cruise offers a charming, eco-conscious option that’s easy to fit into a day of exploring. Just remember to check the weather, plan your snacks, and enjoy the peaceful waters of this lovely Dutch city.

Happy cruising!

You can check availability for your dates here: