Amsterdam: Fly High with This is Holland & Sail the Canals

If you’re looking for a way to truly see Amsterdam beyond the usual sightseeing crowds, this experience caught our eye. It combines a state-of-the-art flight simulation at This is Holland with a scenic 75-minute canal cruise through the city’s iconic waterways. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a fresh perspective of the Dutch capital without spending days on multiple tours.

What we really love about this tour is how it offers diverse views—from the exhilarating sensation of flying over windmills and tulip fields to the peaceful glide past historic landmarks on the canals. Plus, the storytelling from passionate captains during the cruise added a layer of connection to the city’s history.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is pretty structured in timing—so if you’re someone who likes flexibility or has tight connections, timing might need some planning. But overall, it’s a well-rounded adventure suited for those who enjoy a mix of technology, scenery, and engaging narration. It’s especially great for visitors who want an immersive, memorable way to experience Amsterdam from multiple angles.

If you enjoy seeing destinations from new perspectives or appreciate well-organized, engaging tours, this one could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Combines aerial simulation and canal cruising to see Amsterdam from the sky and water.
• Stunning Views: Offers panoramic vistas of windmills, tulip fields, and iconic landmarks.
• Expert Narration: Guides share captivating stories, enriching your understanding of the city’s history.
• Efficient Schedule: The whole experience lasts about 3 hours, with options to choose your preferred start time.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 10 participants, making it more personal and less crowded.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for a broad range of travelers, with plenty of visual and storytelling elements to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting at This is Holland

Your adventure kicks off at This is Holland, a modern attraction designed to give you an overview of the Netherlands. It’s more than just a flight simulation; it’s a visual feast that showcases Dutch landscapes, windmills, and fields of tulips—especially captivating if you visit during spring. We loved the way it combines technology with stunning visuals, making it accessible for just about everyone, whether you’re a tech geek or someone who just appreciates pretty scenery.

The Flight Experience

The core of the experience is the flight simulation that lasts about an hour. While it’s not a real flight, the immersive visuals and motion make you feel as if you’re soaring over the Dutch landscape. The visual quality is impressive, and you’ll get a sweeping view of the city’s rooftops, canals, and countryside—perfect for photo enthusiasts.

According to reviews, many found it to be “so much fun”—even adult kids enjoyed it. It’s an adrenaline boost for thrill-seekers, but it’s also calming as you take in the expansive views from high above. The experience is designed to be engaging yet accessible for all ages, making it a great introduction to the city’s geography and scenery.

The Canal Cruise

After the aerial adventure, you’ll step outside for a 75-minute cruise through Amsterdam’s famous canals. The departure point is conveniently right in front of This is Holland, so there’s no fuss about transportation.

During the cruise, your guide or captain will share stories about the landmarks you pass—like the Westerkerk, a stunning 17th-century church, and the Magere Brug, the quintessential “Skinny Bridge.” The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, weaving in interesting tidbits about the city’s history and culture.

Many reviewers noted the stunning views during the cruise, especially in good weather. The quiet, floating perspective offers a different appreciation for the city’s beauty, with photo opportunities at every turn.

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The Itinerary and Timing

You can choose between two options:
– Option A: Check-in at 11:45, flight experience at 12:00, then cruise at 13:15.
– Option B: Check-in at 13:15, flight experience, then cruise at 15:00.

The seamless transition from land to sky to water makes for a smooth, well-organized experience. The total duration is around 3 hours, which fits nicely into a half-day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What Travelers Say

The reviews reflect broad satisfaction. One traveler from Australia mentioned, “You learn about the Netherlands to begin then you take your flight. It was so much fun even our adult kids liked it!” Meanwhile, several reviewers praised the stunning views and the informative storytelling, describing it as “super interesting” and “very beautiful.”

A few noted that the audio translation could be improved, especially for non-English speakers, but generally, the guides’ passion and the visuals overshadowed this minor hiccup.

Is It Worth the Price?

While this experience isn’t inexpensive, it offers good value considering the combination of immersive visuals and real-world sightseeing. You’re getting two different perspectives of the city—an aerial simulation and a calming boat ride—all within a compact, well-coordinated package. If you’re after a memorable, engaging way to see Amsterdam, this could be worth splurging on.

Practical Considerations

Who Is This For?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers—from couples seeking a romantic, scenic outing to groups of friends wanting an engaging activity. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate stories and visuals. Families with older children might also find it enjoyable, especially since the tour is lively and visually stimulating.

Accessibility and Timing

The experience is structured, so plan your day around the scheduled times. Check-in is at 11:45 or 13:15 depending on your option, with the flight starting promptly at 12:00 or after. The cruise departs right after the flight, making it a smooth flow.

Group Size and Language

Limited to 10 participants, so it feels personal rather than crowded. Guides speak several languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, French, Dutch, and German, which helps make the storytelling accessible.

Cancellation & Booking

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later. This flexibility is a plus if your plans are tentative.

Final Thoughts

This combined Amsterdam experience offers a compelling mix of adventure and relaxation. The stunning views from the flight simulation combined with the peaceful glide through the city’s canals make for a memorable morning or afternoon. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the city from multiple vantage points without the hassle of multiple bookings.

The storytelling adds depth, making it more than just a visual tour. Travelers who appreciate a good narrative alongside beautiful scenery will find this especially rewarding. While the experience is well-organized and generally praised, some minor improvements in audio translation could enhance the overall experience, particularly for international visitors.

All in all, if you’re after a distinctive way to experience Amsterdam that balances excitement with serenity, this tour is a solid choice. It’s a great way to fill a few hours with fun, stunning sights, and engaging stories—perfect for creating lasting memories of your trip.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the immersive visuals and engaging stories make it appealing for older children and teens. However, very young children might find the flight simulation a bit overwhelming or difficult to sit through.

How long does the whole experience last?
The entire tour is approximately 3 hours, including check-in, the flight simulation, and the canal cruise.

Can I choose a specific start time?
Yes, there are two options—one starting at 12:00 and the other at 13:15—so you can pick what fits your schedule best.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak English, Spanish, Italian, French, Dutch, and German, ensuring a broad accessibility.

Is there any flexibility if I need to cancel?
Absolutely. You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What should I expect at This is Holland?
You’ll begin with a visually stunning flight simulation showcasing Dutch landscapes, windmills, and tulip fields. It’s designed to be engaging, accessible, and a fantastic intro to the city’s scenery.

Is the cruise weather-dependent?
While the description doesn’t specify, outdoor boat cruises generally depend on good weather. It’s wise to check the forecast and dress appropriately for the elements.

If you’re after a fun, visually spectacular way to see Amsterdam from above and on the water, this experience hits the mark. It balances excitement with storytelling, offering a memorable slice of Dutch scenery without needing multiple separate tours. Ideal for those who love a multi-sensory approach to sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: