Amsterdam: 90 minute Happy Holidays Evening Cruise

Discover the Magic of Amsterdam During the Holidays with a 90-Minute Evening Canal Cruise

When it comes to celebrating the festive season in Amsterdam, this 90-minute Happy Holidays Evening Cruise offers a delightful way to soak in the city’s beauty without the daytime crowds. While we haven’t personally taken this exact cruise, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a cozy, festive ride that combines scenic views, holiday cheer, and a touch of storytelling—all from the comfort of a glass-enclosed boat.

What really draws us in are the beautifully illuminated canals—a quintessential Amsterdam experience during winter—and the warm drinks that make the chill much more bearable. Plus, the heartwarming Christmas story in multiple languages adds an extra layer of charm, especially if you’re traveling with others who enjoy a bit of holiday sentimentality. On the flip side, some might find the story a little dull or the route doesn’t showcase as many lights as they’d hoped.

If you’re someone who enjoys relaxed, scenic outings with a festive twist, this cruise could be just the thing. It’s perfect for travelers craving a laid-back evening, those interested in a picturesque overview of Amsterdam’s holiday lights, or anyone looking for a cozy, social way to mark the season.

Key Points

• Scenic Canal Views: Cruise through UNESCO World Heritage canals beautifully lit for the holiday season.
• Festive Drinks & Treats: Enjoy Glühwein or hot chocolate along with Eberhard cookies, adding a warm touch.
• Heartwarming Story: Listen to a Christmas story in 6 languages, blending tradition with modern storytelling.
• Accessible Experience: Wheelchair accessible and family-friendly with free kids audio stories.
• Short & Sweet: At 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable, relaxed way to experience Amsterdam’s holiday spirit.
• Potential Route Limitation: Some reviews mention that the route may not showcase the most impressive Christmas lights, which is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the 90-Minute Happy Holidays Evening Cruise

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at Stadhouderskade 550, directly opposite the Heineken Experience, you’re stepping into a scene that screams festive. The boat itself is dressed in twinkling lights and holiday decor, instantly putting you in the holiday mood. The entire experience is designed to be cozy—a warm escape from cold winter air—while gliding through some of Amsterdam’s most iconic canals.

The duration of 90 minutes strikes us as just about right for a relaxed yet memorable snapshot of the city. It’s long enough to take in the sights, listen to the story, and enjoy your warm beverage, but not so long that it drags or becomes tiring. Plus, the boat’s glass walls mean you won’t miss a thing, whether it’s the historic buildings, charming bridges, or the reflections shimmering on the water.

The Route & Sights

The cruise begins at the designated dock and meanders through Amsterdam-Centrum, passing notable sights like Prinsengracht, Westerkerk, and the EYE Film Institute. The route then takes you past the Amsterdam Centraal Station and the A’DAM Tower, offering scenic views of the city’s modern and historic architecture side by side.

Other highlighted stops include the Het Scheepvaartmuseum, the Blauwbrug Bridge, Magere Brug, and the Grachtengordel-West. The reflections on the water, combined with the holiday lights illuminating these landmarks, create genuinely picture-worthy scenes. The reviews mention that the boat passes under many bridges, each adorned with festive lights or historic charm—perfect for photo enthusiasts.

The Audio Story & Its Impact

One of the unique features of this cruise is the Christmas story played in six languages—Dutch, English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish. We think this is a lovely touch, especially if you’re traveling with a group that speaks different languages or have children eager to hear a holiday tale. The story aims to evoke feelings of warmth, joy, and nostalgia, making the cruise more than just sightseeing.

However, some reviews note that the story can feel a bit boring or overly sentimental. One traveler from France mentioned that the story was “really nice,” but others found it slightly dull, with a suggested optimal length being less than 90 minutes. If storytelling isn’t your top priority, this might be a minor drawback, but for many, it adds a cozy, festive layer to the experience.

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Drinks & Cookies: The Holiday Comforts

The inclusion of Glühwein and hot chocolate is a definite highlight. The spiced mulled wine is a classic winter drink that warms you from the inside, while the rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream is perfect for a sweet moment. You get to choose your preferred beverage, which is included in the ticket price.

Alongside your drink, you’ll be served Eberhardt cookies—a nod to the late Mayor of Amsterdam, Eberhard van der Laan. Many reviews mention that the captain was friendly and accommodating, even offering extra drinks when available, which adds to the personable, relaxed vibe.

The Lights & the Atmosphere

Amsterdam’s canals are especially enchanting at night, and during the holiday season, the city decks out its bridges, buildings, and trees with twinkling lights. The reflections on the water amplify this festive glow, creating a truly magical scene. Reviewers have noted how stunning these illuminated vistas are, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the holiday ambiance.

That said, a couple of travelers wished the route included more of the best-lit areas, as the light show may not be as spectacular on every cruise. If your main goal is to see the most impressive displays, you might want to consider whether this cruise’s route aligns with your expectations.

Who is This Cruise Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy gentle, scenic outings that combine sightseeing with a cozy, festive atmosphere. If you appreciate beautiful canal views with holiday lights, this cruise doesn’t disappoint. It’s also ideal for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly activity — the cruise is accessible and includes a free kids’ audio story.

However, if you’re seeking a more dynamic or light-focused experience, or prefer a longer or more extensive exploration, this might feel a bit limited. The cruise’s focus on storytelling and drinks makes it perfect for those looking for a relaxing, social evening rather than a comprehensive sightseeing tour.

Practical Details & Tips

• The cruise costs $30 per person, which we find reasonable given the included drinks, cookies, and the scenic experience.
• It’s a 1.5-hour journey, making it perfect for an evening activity that won’t overtax your schedule.
• The boat is wheelchair accessible, and you can reserve a seat for a wheelchair by calling ahead.
• For those traveling with children, a free kids’ audio story and booklet are included with each kid’s ticket.
• The meeting point is at Stadhouderskade 550, easily reachable by tram or metro with just a five-minute walk from the nearby stops.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

This cruise offers a cozy, visually stunning way to enjoy Amsterdam during the holidays. The illuminated canals, festive drinks, and storytelling make for a charming experience without overwhelming your evening. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic adventure with a touch of holiday magic.

While some reviews point out that the story can be somewhat dull or that the route might not always showcase the most impressive lights, overall, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a simple, enjoyable holiday activity. The value is fair considering the included drinks, cookies, and the unique atmosphere—especially if you’re in town during the Christmas season.

If you want a cozy, picture-perfect cruise that captures the spirit of Amsterdam’s winter nights, this experience is a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Just keep in mind that if your priority is seeing the most spectacular light displays, you might want to plan your route accordingly or consider other options.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, and you can reserve a wheelchair seat by calling the reservations department.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 1.5 hours, making it an easy and manageable activity for an evening.

What drinks are included?
You can choose between Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) and hot chocolate, both served warm during the cruise.

Are children allowed on the cruise?
Yes, children are welcome, and they receive a free kids’ audio story and booklet to enjoy during the journey.

Where do we meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is at Stadhouderskade 550, just opposite the Heineken Experience, accessible by tram or metro.

Does the route pass by the most festive Christmas lights?
The route covers several scenic spots, but some reviews note that not all areas are equally decorated. If seeing the brightest lights is your goal, consider this when choosing your timing.

What is the price of the cruise?
At $30 per person, it offers good value for a cozy, scenic, festive experience that includes drinks and cookies.

In essence, this cruise is a charming way to enjoy Amsterdam’s festive nights—perfect if you’re after a relaxed, cozy, and picturesque holiday outing. It’s not the most elaborate or detailed tour, but it definitely captures the spirit of Amsterdam during winter.

You can check availability for your dates here: