Afternoon tea Amsterdam

A Relaxing Afternoon in Amsterdam: The High Tea Cruise Review

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to see Amsterdam’s iconic canals while indulging in some classic high tea, this cruise with Rederij Aemstelland might catch your eye. It’s a beautifully curated experience that combines scenic views, tasty bites, and knowledgeable narration — all on a vintage-style saloon boat. While it might not be the most adventurous tour out there, it offers a peaceful break from the busier tourist activities.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized. From the moment you arrive at the starting point near the central railway station, you’re set for a cozy hour and 45 minutes of enjoyment. Another highlight is the quality of the food — the finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries are well-made and plentiful. Plus, the fact that there’s Wi-Fi on board means you can share your photos right away, rather than waiting until you get back to land.

However, a small caveat is that the commentary during the cruise is occasional, and some travelers might prefer a bit more insight into the sights they’re passing. Also, the windows are covered with a plastic film which can limit your photo opportunities and viewing clarity. Still, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic outing with good food and friendly hosts, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes.

This tour is ideal for those who want a leisurely way to experience Amsterdam’s canals without the hustle of more active tours. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a peaceful afternoon with excellent food and charming views. Traveling with friends or even celebrating a special occasion? This cruise could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Scenic canal views and a chance to see Amsterdam from the water in style.
• Delicious, plentiful food including sandwiches, scones, pastries, and sweet treats.
• Live captain commentary sharing highlights of the city’s landmarks along the route.
• Wi-Fi on board to share your experience instantly.
• Small group size (maximum 20 travelers), fostering an intimate atmosphere.
• Convenient meeting point near the central station, making it easy to include in your plans.

Why This High Tea Cruise Stands Out

The main draw of this cruise is undoubtedly the combination of scenic canal navigation and refined afternoon tea. It’s a gentle yet engaging way to see some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights, like the Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, and the Jordaan neighborhood — all while enjoying a warm drink and tasty nibbles.

The boat itself is described as elegant, and the cozy atmosphere makes for a comfortable setting to relax and soak in the sights. The live commentary from the captain adds a layer of storytelling that enhances the experience, providing context about the city’s landmarks and history. As one reviewer pointed out, “The captain was very friendly, personable, and food was fabulous.”

The Food and Drink

The menu is quite appealing — think scones, finger sandwiches, macarons, bonbons, and pastries. Several reviews mention the quality and abundance of the treats, with one reviewer noting, “The finger foods was yummy, I loved the salmon sandwiches.” You’ll also find unlimited tea, and some guests enjoyed a glass of bubbly along with the snacks.

The good food combined with a peaceful cruise creates a relaxing atmosphere. However, a review pointed out that it would be even better if there was more commentary about the sights, which is something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for a more educational experience.

The Itinerary and Route

The cruise departs from a location near the Sea Palace Restaurant, right next to the central railway station, at 1:30 pm every Sunday. The route takes you through the main canals, into the Jordaan area, along the Amstel River, and through the city center. It’s a well-rounded route that hits many of the highlights, from the Hermitage Museum to the City Hall, and the famous Skinny Bridge.

During the cruise, the captain shares stories about the city’s history and points out landmarks. While the reviews commend the friendliness and knowledge of the crew, some travelers wish for a more detailed commentary on what they’re seeing. Still, the views alone are quite captivating, especially on a sunny day.

The Group and Duration

This experience is small-scale, capped at 20 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate. The cruise lasts about an hour and a half, a perfect length for a mid-afternoon break — long enough to enjoy the sights and the treats without feeling overwhelmed.

Cost and Value

At $62.26 per person, this high tea cruise offers a nice balance of cost versus experience. You’re paying for a scenic boat ride, quality food, and friendly service, all in a relaxed setting. Considering the overall quality and the reviews, most travelers feel this is a good value, especially if you appreciate a peaceful, scenic outing over a high-energy tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals most to those who enjoy a calm, refined experience. It’s suited for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a leisurely afternoon in Amsterdam. Foodies and tea lovers will especially appreciate the quality of the treats, while travelers wanting to see the city from the water will find the views quite rewarding.

If you’re after a lively, action-packed tour with a lot of historical commentary, this might not be your first choice. But if you want a cozy, elegant way to enjoy the canals with some good food and friendly company, this cruise could be just what you need.

The Sum Up

This high tea cruise in Amsterdam offers a charming mix of scenic water views, delicious snacks, and friendly service. It’s more than just a boat ride — it’s a chance to unwind and enjoy some of the city’s most iconic sights from the comfort of a vintage-style saloon boat. The included food and unlimited tea make it a great value for those who want a relaxed, refined experience.

Travelers who love good food, beautiful scenery, and a touch of local storytelling will find this cruise worthwhile. It’s ideal for a peaceful afternoon, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply taking a break from sightseeing.

While it might lack in-depth historical commentary and some views are slightly obscured by plastic windows, these small drawbacks are easily overshadowed by the overall pleasant atmosphere and the quality of the experience. So if you’re in Amsterdam and craving a calm, enjoyable outing on the water, this high tea cruise could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children are generally allowed, keep in mind this is a relaxed, adult-oriented experience focused on scenery and food. There’s no specific mention of children’s activities, so consider whether your kids will enjoy the quiet, sit-down nature of the cruise.

What is included in the high tea?
The cruise features a variety of finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, macarons, and bonbons. Unlimited tea is served, and some guests enjoyed bubbly. The food is described as fabulous and plentiful.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a perfect short activity for an afternoon.

Where does the cruise start?
It departs from the Sea Palace Restaurant near the central station at Oosterdokskade 8, around 1:30 pm on Sundays.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 20, which helps keep the experience intimate and friendly.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided so you can share photos or stay connected during the cruise.

Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is there any commentary about the sights?
The captain shares stories about the city’s landmarks, but some reviews mention that they wished for more detailed explanations about the attractions.

What’s the overall value of this experience?
Given the quality of food, scenic route, and friendly hosts, most travelers agree it’s a good value for a relaxing afternoon in Amsterdam. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy calm, scenic outings with good company and food.

If you’re after a peaceful, tasty way to see Amsterdam from the water, this high tea cruise offers a delightful and stylish option. Just remember to dress comfortably and be prepared for a leisurely ride filled with charming views and tasty treats.