Amsterdam Beer and Bitterballen Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see Amsterdam from the water while enjoying some local flavors, the Amsterdam Beer and Bitterballen Cruise might catch your eye. It’s a laid-back experience, aimed at those who want a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and tasting traditional Dutch snacks—all wrapped up in about an hour and a quarter. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it’s a fun option for a quick, casual glimpse of the city’s canals with a tasty twist.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the informal, friendly atmosphere. The inclusion of local beer or non-alcoholic options makes it feel like an easy-going get-together rather than a stuffy guided trip. Plus, the stunning views of Amsterdam’s historic neighborhoods and UNESCO-listed canals are a definite highlight. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the group size can be small, especially if you’re booking last-minute or during off-peak times, which might make for a somewhat quiet experience.

This cruise will suit travelers who enjoy casual cultural experiences, love trying local snacks, or want a different perspective on Amsterdam’s famous waterways without the fuss of a full-blown sightseeing tour. It’s also a solid pick if you’re traveling with friends or simply want an easy way to unwind while taking in the sights.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: About 75 minutes, perfect if you want a quick yet memorable experience.
• Local flavors: Includes Dutch snacks like bitterballen and cheese sticks, paired with your choice of beer or non-alcoholic drinks.
• Iconic sights: Passes by notable landmarks such as Centraal Station, Jordaan, the Skinny Bridge, and UNESCO-listed canals.
• Informal vibe: Relaxed, social, with pub-style music and wifi onboard.
• Limited accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, so check if that’s a concern.
• Cost: Around $47 per person, which is reasonable considering it’s a guided cruise with snacks and drinks included.

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we picture a canal cruise in Amsterdam, it’s often about the scenic views, historic architecture, and lively boat chatter. This cruise delivers on those fronts, with the added bonus of tasting some of the city’s beloved snacks. The 75-minute journey is just long enough to glide through some of the most iconic parts of the city without feeling like an endurance test.

The itinerary includes a passing glance at Centraal Station, a picturesque view of the Jordaan neighborhood, and the chance to wave at passersby from the Skinny Bridge. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed canals are naturally a highlight, providing classic Amsterdam scenery that’s just as stunning on the water as on land.

What’s particularly appealing is the casual atmosphere. It’s not a formal tasting tour but more of a social vibe—think of it as sharing snacks and drinks with friends while drifting past Amsterdam’s beautiful streets. You’ll enjoy pub music to set the mood, and WiFi is available onboard, making it easy to share your photos or stay connected.

From reviews, it seems that some guests had a surprisingly intimate experience, with one reviewer noting they were the only two people on the boat for their tour. They found the informative commentary quite enjoyable, which suggests that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly—another plus.

The Itinerary in Detail

The first stop is a brief glimpse of Centraal Station, an architectural marvel and one of the busiest transport hubs in Europe. This is a great way to start your cruise, setting the scene for the city’s vibrant energy.

Next, the boat glides into the Jordaan neighborhood—once a hub for breweries, now charming with boutique shops, galleries, and narrow streets. It’s a vivid reminder of Amsterdam’s brewing past, making it a scenic and historically interesting stop.

The journey continues along the 17th-century UNESCO canals, which are the signature waterways that give the city its charm. These canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’ll get excellent views of classic Dutch architecture lining the water.

One standout sight is the Skinny Bridge, a favorite for many visitors. Be sure to wave at the people passing underneath—it’s a fun, classic Amsterdam moment. The boat then passes by the National Maritime Museum, housed in a beautifully converted building, and the largest science museum in the Netherlands, which adds a touch of local culture and education.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll pass several zé landmarks that make this experience more than just a sightseeing trip—they turn into a relaxing, social moment on the water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes Heineken beer, non-alcoholic options, or alcohol-free beer, so you can choose what suits your mood. The Dutch snacks are a highlight, especially the bitterballen, which are crispy meatballs—Veganballen options are available if you prefer. Accompanying snacks like kaasstengels (cheese sticks) and kaasvlinders add to the sharing vibe.

You’ll enjoy pub-style music, making the whole experience more lively and fun. WiFi and restrooms are onboard, adding a level of comfort for a cruise that’s meant to be enjoyable and relaxed.

However, a notable limitation is that the tour does not offer wheelchair accessibility. If mobility is a concern, consider whether this could be a barrier for you.

Practical Details and Pricing

At around $47.29 per person, the tour offers a nice value considering the inclusion of snacks, drinks, a guided cruise, and onboard entertainment. It’s a moderate price for a unique perspective on the city, especially given the duration.

The timing starts at 3:15 pm, making it a perfect late-afternoon activity—ideal if you’re exploring during the day and want a chill wind-down. The cruise departs from Stromma at Damrak, centrally located near public transportation, making it easy to fit into your day.

Booking 24 days in advance is typical, which means it’s generally well-organized and accessible, but last-minute spots might be limited.

What Real Travelers Say

One reviewer shared that they booked the tour expecting a more lively group but found themselves as the only participants for that particular trip. Despite that, they described the cruise as fairly informative, and appreciated the friendly atmosphere. It’s worth noting that the guide’s knowledge was praised, making the experience more engaging.

On the other hand, some might find the group size small or the cruise somewhat quiet if fewer travelers are on board, which can actually be a plus if you prefer intimacy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is excellent for those who want a relaxed, social experience with a touch of local culture. If you enjoy snacking on traditional Dutch bites and having a cold drink while soaking in scenic views, you’ll feel right at home. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of sights from a unique vantage point.

It’s also a good pick for friends or couples who want a casual outing, especially in the afternoon. If you’re looking for a more lively, party-style cruise or full accessibility, you might want to explore other options.

The Amsterdam Beer and Bitterballen Cruise offers a friendly, informal way to experience the city’s canals. It combines beautiful scenery, tasty snacks, and local drinks in a compact, 75-minute format. While it’s not a comprehensive sightseeing trip or suited for those with mobility needs, it provides a genuine taste of Amsterdam’s relaxed borrel culture.

If you’re after a cozy, social activity with a good mix of views and flavors, this cruise could be a highlight of your visit. Just remember that the experience’s intimacy depends on the number of participants, and the quiet vibe may suit those who prefer a chill, low-key outing over a lively party atmosphere.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
It’s an +18 cruise, so it’s intended for adults. Kids probably wouldn’t be allowed onboard due to alcohol restrictions.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a compact but satisfying experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Just your sense of curiosity and maybe a camera—WiFi is available onboard, so sharing photos is easy.

Are there vegetarian or vegan snack options?
Veganballen are available, so vegetarians and vegans can enjoy the snacks.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour does not offer wheelchair access, so plan accordingly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Stromma, Damrak 16, pier 5, and returns to the same point after the cruise.

What’s included in the price?
Your choice of beer or non-alcoholic drink, Dutch snacks, the 75-minute cruise with pub music, WiFi, and onboard restroom.

If a relaxed, flavorful cruise sounds like your kind of Amsterdam adventure, this tour is worth considering. It’s a simple, friendly way to see the city’s canals, enjoy some local bites, and soak in the laid-back Dutch vibe.