Amsterdam Classic Saloon Boat Cruise, Drinks and Cheese Option

Imagine gliding quietly through Amsterdam’s iconic canals on a cozy wooden boat, sipping wine or beer, and nibbling on delicious Dutch cheeses. That’s pretty much what this Amsterdam Classic Saloon Boat Cruise offers—an easygoing way to see some of the city’s best sights while enjoying good company and great refreshments. With over 30,000 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, this experience has won the hearts of many travelers, and it’s easy to see why.

What we really like about this tour is the intimacy and charm of the classic wooden boat, giving you that authentic canal experience. Plus, the cheese and unlimited drinks upgrade makes it feel more like a relaxing social gathering than a typical sightseeing tour. On the flip side, it’s a short, one-hour cruise, so if you’re craving more in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit light. Overall, it’s best suited for those looking for a laid-back way to take in Amsterdam’s beauty, especially if you enjoy a casual drink and some good stories.

Key Points

• Relaxed and intimate atmosphere on a classic wooden saloon boat
• Stunning views of Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals and landmarks
• Tasty Dutch cheeses paired with mustard, plus unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks
• Informative commentary from friendly guides about the city’s sights
• Flexible options for departure points and upgrades available
• Great value at around $25 per person, especially with the cheese and drinks included

What to Expect from the Amsterdam Canal Cruise

This cruise is designed as a short, relaxing journey through the heart of Amsterdam’s historic canal district. It’s perfect if you want a taste of the city’s scenic beauty without a long commitment. The boat is a charming, covered wooden saloon, offering protection from unpredictable Dutch weather, which is always a good idea.

You’ll meet at a central location, near the Anne Frank House or in nearby spots (depending on your chosen departure point). Once aboard, you settle into the cozy interior and prepare for a gentle glide along the canals. If you’ve upgraded your ticket, a cheese platter with mustard will be handed to you—ideal for snacking during the ride. Besides cheese, unlimited drinks flow freely, with options like beer, wine, and soft drinks.

The cruise follows a route through some of the most photographed parts of Amsterdam, including the Prinsengracht, with a view of the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, and the iconic Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). Your guide will point out landmarks and share intriguing snippets about their history, although this isn’t a detailed historical deep dive—more like fun facts and city anecdotes.

The Itinerary and Sights

Each departure might vary slightly, but the overall route covers the main canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and includes several highlights:

• Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis): A powerful symbol of Amsterdam’s WWII history, seen from the water. The guide often shares stories related to this historic site.
• Prinsengracht and Bloemgracht: These canals are lined with historic houses and picturesque views. The tour offers a chance to see how locals have lived over the centuries.
• Herengracht and Keizersgracht: Part of the famous concentric canal belt, filled with monumental buildings dating back to the Dutch Golden Age.
• Rijksmuseum: While not entering the museum, you’ll enjoy a view of its stunning exterior from the water.
• Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge): A favorite for its charming wooden construction and historical significance.
• De 9 Straatjes and Bloemenmarkt: Viewpoints of lively neighborhoods and the famous flower market, all from the water.

Additional landmarks like the Royal Theatre Carré, the Munttoren, and the Dutch National Opera are also spotted along the route, giving you a nice overview of the cultural sights.

The Experience — What It’s Really Like

Many reviews echo how enjoyable and laid-back this cruise is. Guests rave about the friendly guides and engaging commentary, which strikes a good balance between informative and light-hearted. As one reviewer said, “The guides were friendly, had great energy, and made the experience unforgettable,” which sums up the general vibe.

The boat itself is praised for being charming and cozy, especially the covered deck, which makes the cruise accessible and comfortable even if the weather isn’t perfect. Travelers love the option to sit back, relax, and take in the views while enjoying unlimited drinks. The cheese platter, when included, gets high marks—perfect for nibbling on as you float past landmarks.

People also appreciate the value for money. For about $25, you get a short but sweet cruise with unlimited drinks, cheese, and a friendly atmosphere. Some comments mention the quality of drinks and snacks; the cheese is tasty, and the selection of wines and beers is well-liked. The cruise’s affordability makes it a popular choice for those wanting a relaxed, social experience without breaking the bank.

A recurring theme in reviews is how well this tour suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for something low-key. It’s not a high-energy party boat, but more of a convivial cruise where you can chat with other guests and enjoy Amsterdam from a different perspective.

Practical Details That Matter

The duration is roughly one hour, so it’s easy to slot into a day packed with sightseeing. The meeting point is central, often near the Anne Frank House or close to public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.

While the price is reasonable, especially with the cheese and drinks upgrade, it’s worth noting that the minimum drinking age is 18. The boat has no toilets onboard, so plan accordingly if needed. It’s also good to be prepared for colder weather on the water, even in summer, so packing a light jacket is advisable.

The tour accepts service animals, and cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, which is flexible for most plans. Keep in mind, no bachelor or birthday party groups are allowed unless you arrange a private booking.

The Reviews Say It All

Many travelers emphasize the fun, lively guides and the stunning views. “The crew was engaging and funny,” said one reviewer, and “the scenery was beautiful,” echoed others. The wine and cheese pairing consistently gets glowing reviews, often described as “delicious” and “a perfect pairing.” The reviews also highlight the informal, friendly vibe, making it a popular choice for solo travelers or couples on a casual trip.

Some reviewers mention minor hiccups, like the initial difficulty in finding the meeting point, but overall, the comments are overwhelmingly positive. The small group size (max 46 people) helps maintain an intimate, personal atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, social way to see Amsterdam. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a quick overview, or anyone wanting a low-key, enjoyable experience with good drinks and tasty snacks. It’s especially well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate friendly guides and a cozy boat.

If you’re a history buff seeking deep dives into the city’s past, this isn’t the tour for you—though the guides do share interesting facts. If you’re chasing a party vibe, you might want to look elsewhere, as this is more about chilling and taking in the scenery. Those on a budget will find it offers excellent value, given the included cheese and unlimited drinks.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Amsterdam Classic Saloon Boat Cruise offers a charming, affordable way to enjoy the city’s famous canals. You’ll love the beautiful views, friendly guides, and the relaxed atmosphere that makes it feel more like a social gathering than a sightseeing tour. The cheese and drinks upgrade adds a delicious touch that elevates the experience, especially if you’re a foodie or a wine lover.

While it’s not the most in-depth tour, it’s perfect for anyone looking to combine sightseeing with some casual indulgence. The cozy boat, good company, and scenic backdrop make it a memorable part of your Amsterdam visit. Just remember to dress warm and arrive on time—this is a short, sweet cruise that leaves you with plenty of time to explore the city afterward.

This tour is best for those who want a light, enjoyable experience—whether solo, as a couple, or with friends—without the hassle of a long or complicated itinerary. It’s a lovely way to unwind, learn a little, and take in some of the most photogenic spots in Amsterdam.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour requires guests to be at least 18 years old for alcohol consumption, but children can sit on board with adults. Keep in mind, there are no specific child discounts or activities.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about one hour, making it a quick but satisfying way to see the canals.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If it rains and you prefer not to go, you can cancel and get a full refund.

Are drinks included?
With the standard ticket, no—drinks are available for purchase. However, if you upgrade to the drinks and cheese option, you’ll enjoy unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and Dutch cheeses.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point varies slightly depending on the departure location but is centrally located near landmarks like the Anne Frank House or the Homomonument. The tour provider will give specific instructions.

Is there a restroom on board?
No, there are no toilets on the boat, so plan accordingly.

What if I have special dietary needs?
The tour includes Dutch cheeses, but specific dietary restrictions aren’t mentioned. It’s best to contact the provider ahead of time if you have allergies or dietary concerns.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how much fun solo travelers had, with friendly guides and a relaxed vibe that makes meeting people easy.

If you’re looking for a charming, wallet-friendly way to experience Amsterdam’s canals with a tasty cheese platter and unlimited drinks, this cruise hits the spot. It’s simple, scenic, and sociable—a perfect addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.