Amsterdam Private BBQ and Drinks Cruise With Onboard Chef

Amsterdam Private BBQ and Drinks Cruise With Onboard Chef — An Honest Review

If you’re looking for a way to see Amsterdam’s famous canals while enjoying a delicious meal and drinks in a relaxed setting, this private BBQ cruise could be just what you need. While I haven’t tried it myself, the reviews and details suggest it offers a unique blend of sightseeing, good food, and a touch of luxury, all wrapped up in a cozy private setting.

What I really like about this experience is the personalized nature of a private boat — no crowded tour groups here — and the fact that a chef prepares a BBQ right on the boat while you sip unlimited drinks. It’s a blend of scenic cruising and laid-back indulgence that could make for a memorable outing. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour costs a bit more than the average canal cruise, so it’s best suited for those wanting a special experience or celebrating something special.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate a mix of sightseeing with a culinary twist, especially if you’re after a more intimate, customizable experience. It’s also great for groups and couples who want to enjoy Amsterdam’s beauty without the noise of larger boats or crowded restaurants. If you’re into good food, scenic views, and a relaxed vibe, this cruise might just hit the spot.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with only your group on board
• Chef-cooked barbecue meal with unlimited drinks, making it a true tasting experience
• Unobstructed views from an open-air boat (can be covered for bad weather)
• Famous landmarks and scenic spots expertly pointed out by your skipper
• Ideal for creating intimate, memorable moments or celebrating special occasions
• Booking well in advance is recommended, as it’s popular and typically booked around 30 days ahead

Why This Cruise Stands Out

Imagine floating along Amsterdam’s winding canals, feeling the gentle breeze while savoring a hot, freshly grilled meal prepared just for your group. This isn’t your typical sightseeing cruise — it’s a more indulgent, intimate way to explore the city. The boat is private, meaning you won’t be squeezed with strangers, and you’ll have the flexibility to enjoy the sights at your own pace.

The onboard chef is a real highlight. While you’re cruising past iconic sites, your meal is being prepared right there on the boat, adding an element of surprise and delight. The drinks are unlimited, which means you can enjoy a glass of wine, beer, or soft drink as you relax and soak in the views.

The cruise covers notable landmarks like the city’s grand art museums, Anne Frank’s house, and the floating flower market. Many reviewers mention how the viewing experience is enhanced by the open-air setup, which offers unobstructed, scenic views — perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

What to Expect During the Itinerary

The tour includes multiple stops along Amsterdam’s canals, each with its own charm. While specific details about the stops aren’t exhaustively listed, the highlights point to a route that touches on the city’s most picturesque and historically significant spots.

Your skipper will point out famous landmarks, giving you context as you glide past the city’s iconic architecture. You’ll see the brightly colored houses, historic bridges, and notable cultural sites. For example, passing by the Anne Frank House and the largest Protestant church with its impressive bell tower will give you a glimpse of Amsterdam’s rich past.

The floating flower market, the oldest and widest bridges, and the quaint neighborhoods all add to the visual feast. And for a bit of local flavor, the route might include areas with lively cafes, boutique shops, and scenic houseboats.

What makes this experience special is not just the sights but the atmosphere — relaxed, exclusive, and delicious. The chef’s BBQ creates a warm, inviting vibe, and many reviews mention how good the food and drinks are, elevating the overall experience.

The Food and Drinks

You’ll enjoy a barbecue feast prepared by your onboard chef. While exact menu details aren’t provided, the reviews highlight good food and drinks as a standout feature. The unlimited drinks include wine, beer, soft drinks, and possibly more, allowing you to unwind and toast to the scenery.

Many reviewers found the food to be “great,” and one even mentioned it as a perfect way to introduce themselves to the city from the waterways. The casual, social nature of the meal makes it more than just sightseeing — it’s about savoring the moment.

The Price and Value

At $350.11 per person, this cruise is on the premium side for a canal experience. But considering it’s a private boat, with a personal chef, and unlimited drinks, the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for exclusivity, comfort, and a curated experience rather than just a quick sightseeing ride.

If you’re celebrating something special or simply want a more intimate way to explore, this price might be justified. It’s also well-suited for those who value quality over quantity and want to avoid the crowds. Many reviews mention that this experience is worth the cost, especially for the added touches like the chef and private setting.

Booking and Practical Tips

Since most bookings are made 30 days in advance, it’s wise to plan early if you’re set on this experience. The activity lasts about two hours, which is a good length to relax without feeling rushed. The meeting point is at Oosterdokskade 8, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Weather can affect the experience, but the boat offers covering options for bad weather, so you’re protected even if the sky turns grey. And since it’s a private tour, you might have some flexibility with timing or special requests if you book directly.

Final Thoughts

This private BBQ cruise offers a lovely blend of sightseeing, culinary delight, and relaxation. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups who want a special way to experience Amsterdam’s famous canals. The personalized service, stunning views, and delicious food come together to create a memorable outing.

While it’s more expensive than standard canal tours, many find the added comfort and exclusivity worth the price. It’s a relaxed, fun way to enjoy the city with a touch of luxury and a lot of good food.

If you enjoy good scenery, tasty meals, and a peaceful, private setting, this cruise will deliver. It’s especially suited to those celebrating something or just wanting an upscale, memorable experience on the water.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
This is a private tour meant only for your group, so it’s perfect if you want an exclusive experience with friends or family.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sights and meal.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, which is helpful if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks are unlimited during the cruise, including wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Is the boat open-air?
Yes, the boat has open-air sections for unobstructed views, but it can be covered if the weather’s bad.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most bookings are made around 30 days ahead, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your preferred date.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Though not explicitly stated, the nature of the cruise and meal suggests it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, if they are comfortable with boat rides and a relaxed atmosphere.

What about accessibility?
The tour location is near public transportation, but there’s no specific info about accessibility features.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the private boat, onboard chef, BBQ meal, and unlimited drinks.

If you’re after a special, intimate way to explore Amsterdam’s waterways combined with good food and drinks, this cruise could be a great pick. Just plan ahead, and you’ll set yourself up for a memorable time on the canals.