Amsterdam: Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option

If you’re heading to Amsterdam and want to see the city from its iconic waterways, a canal cruise with drinks sounds like a pretty good plan. This particular tour, offered by Starboard Boats, has garnered rave reviews — with a perfect 5-star rating based on over 1,200 reviews. It’s a laid-back, sociable way to experience the city’s beautiful canals, all while enjoying unlimited wine, beer, or soda.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the scenic charm of Amsterdam’s waterways with the fun of an open bar, making it ideal for relaxing with friends or meeting fellow travelers. Also, the fact that the boat is covered means you’re not at the mercy of the weather, which can be unpredictable.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour is quite short, lasting about an hour. If you’re after a more in-depth exploration or a longer cruise, this might feel a bit too quick. But for those who want a fun, social snapshot of the city in a compact timeframe, it hits the spot.

This tour is especially suited for travelers wanting a casual, lively experience that combines sightseeing with a bit of indulgence. It’s great for those who enjoy meeting new people, don’t mind drinking beer or wine, and are curious to see Amsterdam’s top sights from the water without the crowds on land.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $23, this cruise offers good value, especially considering the unlimited drinks.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The guided commentary and friendly hosts create an inviting environment.
• Scenic Views: Pass under iconic bridges and along the most famous canals, including the Amstel River.
• Flexible Options: Choose between two-drink or unlimited drinks packages.
• Weather-Proof: The covered boat means rain won’t ruin the experience.
• Small Group: With a max of 26 travelers, it’s intimate enough to feel personal but lively enough for a group vibe.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Availability

One of the first things to note is that this tour is usually booked about 11 days in advance, which is fairly typical for popular activities in Amsterdam. The price point of around $23.16 per person makes it quite accessible, especially considering that drinks are included if you opt for the unlimited package. You can select from multiple start times, providing flexibility whether you’re an early bird or prefer a sunset cruise.

The Itinerary and What You’ll See

The cruise begins and ends in the heart of the Red Light District — one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods. Starting here is a smart move because it allows you to soak in some of the city’s most iconic sights from the water, without the land crowds.

As the boat glides along, you’ll pass along the main canals of the UNESCO-listed Amsterdam Canal Ring. These waterways are lined with historic buildings, charming houseboats, and scenic bridges. One of the highlights is cruising under the “Skinny Bridge,” a slender, picturesque crossing that’s often featured in photos of the city.

Another treat is the ride on the Amstel River. The views here are particularly stunning, giving you a different perspective on the city’s architecture and the lush green banks. Passing by the “7 Bridges” canal offers a more intimate glance at some of Amsterdam’s most famous waterways.

Guides and Atmosphere

The reviews repeatedly praise the guides for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge. One reviewer mentioned Ethan, who made everyone feel welcomed with his funny stories and interesting facts. Others appreciated how guides shared insights into Amsterdam’s history, architecture, and culture in an engaging way.

Guests often remark that the hosts create a relaxed, open vibe where questions are welcomed, and everyone feels comfortable. Several reviews highlight the hosts’ ability to keep the mood lively yet laid-back, making it perfect for a casual social outing.

Drinks and Food

The main draw here is the unlimited drinks option, which includes wine, beer, and soda. Reviewers confirm that the drinks are plentiful and served cold, with some noting the Heineken was especially appreciated. For those opting for the 2-drink option, you still get a good taste of what’s available, but the unlimited package truly stands out as the best value.

While snacks are not included, catering options like pizza, BBQ, or Dutch snacks are available upon request. This flexibility is helpful if you’re feeling peckish after a few drinks or want to extend the experience.

The Duration and Group Size

At roughly an hour, this cruise offers a quick but satisfying glimpse of Amsterdam’s waterways. It’s a good choice if you’re tight on time or want a light, fun activity to break up your day.

Group size is limited to 26 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and lively without becoming overcrowded. Many reviews mention how friendly and approachable the staff are, making it easy to chat and ask questions.

Weather Considerations

The boats are covered, so rain isn’t a big concern. However, weather can still influence your overall enjoyment. Reviews from September note that rain can happen, but the covered deck ensures you stay dry. If the weather turns severe, the tour might be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Pricing and Value

At just over $23, this cruise feels like great value, especially since drinks are included. Compared to other activities, it offers a nice balance of sightseeing, socializing, and affordability. The reviews back this up, with many guests saying it was their favorite part of the trip or a highlight of their visit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a laid-back, social experience rather than a formal, educational tour. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy meeting new people and having fun with drinks in hand.

If you’re after a scenic, light-hearted way to see some of Amsterdam’s most famous waterways without the hustle of land-based sightseeing, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also suited for those who value good service, engaging guides, and a relaxed atmosphere.

But it might not be your best choice if…

• You’re seeking a deep dive into Amsterdam’s history (because this is more about the scenery and social vibe than detailed narration).
• You want a long, multi-hour cruise—this is a quick hour on the water.
• You prefer non-alcoholic experiences or are traveling with children (though the tour is generally not marketed as family-friendly, it’s not explicitly unsuitable for older kids).

FAQ About the Canal Booze Cruise

Is the cruise suitable for rainfall?
Yes. The boats are covered, so rain won’t ruin your experience. Just be aware that severe weather could lead to cancellations.

Can I choose a specific start time?
Yes, multiple start times are available, so you can pick what fits best with your day.

What drinks are included?
Depending on your option, you can select the 2-drink or unlimited drinks package, which includes wine, beer, and soda.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 1 hour, making it a quick yet memorable activity.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum group size is 26 travelers, which helps keep the vibe friendly and not overly crowded.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start — great for flexible travelers.

Are snacks included?
No, snacks are not included but can be arranged upon request, including options like pizza or Dutch treats.

Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers have enjoyed the social atmosphere, and guides are noted for making everyone feel welcome.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easygoing way to see Amsterdam from its beautiful canals while enjoying good drinks and company, this cruise delivers. The combination of scenic views, friendly guides, and unlimited beverages makes it a solid choice for a casual outing. The reviews consistently praise its value, atmosphere, and fun vibe, which speaks volumes about what you can expect.

While it’s not a deep historical exploration or a long cruise, that’s not the point. This experience is about unwinding, socializing, and soaking up the city’s charm from the water. It’s a flexible, budget-friendly way to add a memorable activity to your Amsterdam trip — especially if you enjoy a drink or two along the way.

For travelers who want a lively, friendly, and scenic experience that’s perfect for meeting people and enjoying Amsterdam’s waterways, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to book in advance, bring your good humor, and prepare for a fun hour on the water.

Note: Always check the weather forecast and cancellation policies closer to your planned date, especially in seasons prone to rain.