Private All-Inclusive Cruise with Captain

Exploring Amsterdam from the Water: A Review of the Private All-Inclusive Cruise with Captain Jack

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see Amsterdam, a private boat cruise might be just what you need. This particular experience, led by the charming Captain Jack, promises an intimate, customizable journey through the city’s famous canals, complete with drinks, snacks, and insider stories. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed description, it sounds like a perfect way to unwind and enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways at your own pace.

What really stands out about this cruise is its personalized nature—you’re in a small group of up to seven people, and the captain offers to sail you around his favorite spots in the city. Plus, it’s fully private, so you won’t be stuck with strangers. The other big plus? The cruise is all-inclusive, meaning drinks and snacks are on the house, adding a touch of luxury without the extra cost. A possible consideration, however, is the price point of around $208 per person, which might seem steep for some, but the quality and exclusivity could justify it for those seeking a special experience.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate view of Amsterdam with a personal guide who knows his city well. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate comfort—indoor seating, wheelchair accessibility, and the option to enjoy the weather out on the deck if it’s nice. If you’re traveling with someone who loves cruising or simply wants a break from busy sightseeing, this could be your perfect match.

Key Points:

• Private setting: Only your group of up to seven for a tailored experience.
• All-inclusive: Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and snacks included, no hidden costs.
• Flexibility: Choose your route or let Captain Jack show you his favorite sights.
• Accessible: Wheelchair friendly and welcoming to service animals.
• Learning opportunity: Captain Jack shares insights into Amsterdam life and waterways.
• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes, a perfect length for a leisurely cruise.

The Experience and What to Expect

Let’s talk about what you might encounter on this cruise. Starting at Singel 9 in the heart of Amsterdam, you’ll step onto the luxury salon boat called the “Drift Away”—a fully electric vessel that’s eco-friendly and quiet, making for a smooth, peaceful ride. The boat offers comfortable indoor seating and an outdoor deck, so you can enjoy the sights no matter the weather. The boat’s design is modern and sleek, adding a touch of luxury to your city sightseeing.

Captain Jack, or Boudewijn Metzelaar, describes himself as a lifelong Amsterdammer who loves sharing his city’s magic. His enthusiasm shines through in reviews, with many travelers noting his knowledge and friendly demeanor. He’s not just steering the boat—he’s giving you a glimpse into local life with engaging stories and tips.

The cruise includes a full array of drinks and snacks, so you can sip your favorite beverage while soaking up the views. Whether you prefer a beer, wine, juice, or soft drink, everything is included, and there’s even a bathroom onboard. This all-in-one approach makes the experience feel luxurious yet relaxed—no need to worry about extra costs or finding a place to eat along the way.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Unlike typical canal cruises that follow a set route, this experience offers customization. Captain Jack can sail you through some of his favorite spots or stick to a route that highlights the most iconic sights. Since the boat is fully electric, it’s also a quiet way to enjoy the scenery without engine noise disrupting the peaceful atmosphere.

Although the exact route is flexible, the main highlight is simply cruising Amsterdam’s famous waterways. As the boat glides through the canals, you’ll see centuries-old buildings, charming houseboats, and lively neighborhoods around you. If the weather permits, lounging on the deck gives you an unobstructed view of the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant life.

The reviewer Sherri_C summed it up perfectly: “We spent a great afternoon with Jack, with a great selection of snacks and drinks. It was the perfect way to see Amsterdam.” That pretty much captures the essence—this isn’t about rushing past sights but enjoying a leisurely, personable experience with a knowledgeable guide.

The Review: What Travelers Are Saying

It’s rare to see a perfect score like 5/5 from 29 reviews, and that’s quite telling. People repeatedly mention Captain Jack’s hospitality and local insight—a warm guide who makes the cruise feel personal. One reviewer highlighted that it was “the perfect way to spend the afternoon,” enjoying snacks and drinks while taking in the sights, which speaks volumes about the relaxed, enjoyable vibe of the tour.

Many praise the stunning views and comfort of the boat. The fact that it’s wheelchair accessible and welcomes service animals is also a big plus for travelers with mobility needs, making it inclusive for a variety of guests wanting a smooth experience.

While no major downsides are explicitly mentioned, the price could be a sticking point for some. At roughly $208 per person, it’s an investment, but considering the private setting, personalized service, and all-inclusive drinks, it’s comparable to other high-end experiences in the city. And the flexible route means you get a more tailored, intimate cruise than larger, crowd-filled boats.

Pricing and Value

At just over $200 per person, this cruise isn’t cheap, but it offers a premium, personalized experience. Being private means you’re not sharing with strangers, and the drinks and snacks are included, which helps justify the cost. If you’re someone who values comfort, tailored experiences, and insider insights, this cruise could be well worth it.

Remember, it’s booked about 42 days in advance on average, so planning ahead is wise if you want this exclusive experience. The option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before means you can reserve with some peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise would be ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, luxurious way to see Amsterdam. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort and personal service and those interested in learning about the city from a local perspective. Families with older children or friends celebrating a special occasion will find it a memorable outing, especially given the accessibility features.

If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly cruise, this might feel a bit indulgent. But if you’re looking to treat yourself to something more exclusive and intimate, it’s a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a private experience tailored to your interests.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, which is enough time to relax and see the sights without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included, so there are no additional costs for refreshments.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is fully wheelchair accessible and welcomes service animals.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Singel 9 in central Amsterdam and returns to the same point.

Can I choose my route?
You can either select your preferred route or let Captain Jack sail you around his favorite spots.

What if the weather is bad?
You’ll have indoor seating, so you’ll still enjoy the cruise comfortably even if the weather turns.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
Yes, the boat has a bathroom for guests’ convenience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 42 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private all-inclusive cruise with Captain Jack offers a charming, personalized way to see Amsterdam from the water. The combination of stunning views, engaging storytelling, and the comfort of a fully equipped boat makes it a standout choice for those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value quality over quantity and are looking for a special way to celebrate a day or simply unwind after busy sightseeing.

While the price might be a consideration, the inclusiveness and private setting justify the cost for many who want something memorable and tailored to their interests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a different perspective on this beautiful city, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip.

Final Recommendation

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and private cruise around Amsterdam’s canals, this experience is tough to beat. It’s perfect for those who want a personal touch, great views, and good company, all wrapped into a cozy, eco-friendly boat ride. Just remember to book early, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a delightful journey with Captain Jack!