Amsterdam: Light Festival Open Boat – Unl. Drinks Option

Exploring the Amsterdam Light Festival from the Water: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a way to see the Amsterdam Light Festival, a canal cruise might be just what you’re after. This particular experience, offered by Mokumboot, takes you on a 75-minute journey along some of the city’s most iconic waterways, bathed in the glow of art installations and historic sights. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve reviewed enough to know that it offers a memorable way to experience the city’s winter magic — especially if you prefer seeing things from the water rather than on foot.

One thing I love about this cruise is how it combines sustainable travel with lively, illuminated scenery. An electric boat means you can enjoy the sights without the noise or fumes of a traditional motor. On top of that, the focus on light art makes the experience visually striking — perfect for anyone who appreciates creativity and a bit of visual sparkle. Another big plus? The guide’s storytelling, which enriches the journey with interesting facts about the artworks, the city’s history, and hidden gems you might not discover on a typical tour.

That said, a possible consideration is the duration — at just 75 minutes, it’s a relatively short experience, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration, you might find it a bit light. Also, if you’re someone who prefers heated or enclosed boats in colder weather, you’ll want to check if the semi-open boat suits your comfort.

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy the festival lights, especially those who value sustainable options and engaging commentary. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone wanting an atmospheric, water-based perspective of the city during its winter display.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Sustainable Electric Boat: Enjoy the festival on a fully electric, eco-friendly vessel, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
• Prime Water Views: Experience Amsterdam’s illuminated landmarks from a comfortable, front-row perspective on the canals.
• Insightful Guides: Benefit from friendly storytelling about the artworks and city’s history, enriching the visual experience.
• Iconic Sights: Pass under the Skinny Bridge, along historic canal houses, and across the Seven Bridges of Reguliersgracht.
• Short but Sweet: The 75-minute cruise offers an efficient way to see the light installations without a long commitment.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and options to reserve now, pay later, add convenience.

What to Expect from the Amsterdam Light Festival Open Boat Tour

This tour kicks off in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station, right at the meeting point on the “Middenkom” opposite the Victoria Hotel. The location is straightforward to find — look for the crew dressed in red. Once on board, you’ll step onto a semi-open, fully electric boat. This means you get spectacular views with some protection from the cold, depending on the weather, but it’s not fully enclosed, so dress warmly if it’s a chilly evening.

Your journey lasts about 75 minutes, enough time to relax and soak in the illuminated sights while your guide shares insights. The route includes highlights such as the Skinny Bridge, known locally as Magere Brug, which is stunningly lit, and the historic canal houses that line the waterways, glowing softly in the night. The Seven Bridges of Reguliersgracht are also part of the route, offering picturesque scenes with their artistic lighting and reflections in the water.

The atmosphere is friendly and informal, with the guide providing commentary in English and Dutch. Many reviews mention how the guide’s stories add a personal touch, making the experience more than just a sightseeing cruise. For example, one reviewer noted, “Gezellige tour en aardige schipper die met leuke feitjes over het lichtfestival kwam,” which translates to a cozy tour with a nice skipper sharing fun facts.

Since this cruise is part of the Amsterdam Light Festival, the installations are either designed specifically for this event or temporarily displayed as part of the city’s winter celebrations. The lighting is tailored to create a magical, fairy-tale ambiance that’s especially captivating at night.

The Experience on the Water

The boat itself is described as comfortable and eco-friendly, which means you won’t have to worry about noise or emissions spoiling the vibe. The fact that it’s electric is a real plus for environmentally conscious travelers. The front-row views are perfect for snapping photos or simply admiring the artistry.

From reviews, it’s clear that one of the standout features is the spectacular viewing. Multiple guests called it a “beautiful route along the light art,” emphasizing that the views are truly breathtaking. The combination of stunning light displays and the reflective canal waters creates a picture-perfect scene.

The cruise’s short length makes it accessible for most schedules, and the small group size, typical of these tours, ensures a more intimate experience. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s festive spirit without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

While exact pricing isn’t provided here, the tour is positioned as an experience that offers good value for those interested in both sightseeing and cultural insight. With the added bonus of unlimited drinks options available at some similar experiences, this cruise offers a delightful mix of visual spectacle and social relaxation. If you opt for the drinks option, it enhances the experience further, making it more festive and cozy.

For the cost, you’re paying for a short but scenic journey, guided commentary, and the eco-friendly boat, which makes it a practical choice if you want a relaxing snapshot of Amsterdam’s winter magic without breaking the bank.

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Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise suits travelers who value sustainability, appreciate art and light displays, and prefer water-based sightseeing. It’s particularly ideal for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide. Families with older children should find it enjoyable, especially if they love scenic views and lighting displays, but younger kids might be less engaged by a 75-minute boat ride.

It’s also perfect for visitors who are after a convenient, no-fuss way to see some of Amsterdam’s most photogenic sights during the festival season. If you’re seeking a more low-key, atmospheric experience with a focus on visual beauty, this cruise is quite likely to hit the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat fully enclosed or open?
The boat is semi-open, meaning you’ll have clear views of the lights, but it’s not fully enclosed. Dress warmly, especially if the weather is cold.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Are drinks included?
This particular option offers an unlimited drinks option, which is a nice addition if you want to sip while enjoying the views. Otherwise, drinks are available for purchase.

Where do I meet the boat?
Meet in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station, on the “Middenkom” opposite the Victoria Hotel. Look for staff dressed in red.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 75 minutes, making it a perfect short activity during your evening.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While no specific age restrictions are mentioned, the relaxed, scenic nature makes it suitable for older children or teenagers. Families should consider their kids’ comfort with outdoor, semi-open environments in winter.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Amsterdam during the Light Festival, and you’re after an eco-friendly, scenic, and culturally rich way to enjoy the illuminated city, this cruise from Mokumboot offers a solid choice. The stunning views of the Skinny Bridge, historic canal houses, and the Seven Bridges make for incredible photo opportunities and memorable moments. Plus, the guide’s stories add a layer of connection to the city’s history and art.

While it’s a relatively short experience, many reviews highlight how much detail and beauty can be packed into those 75 minutes. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, environmental consciousness, and visual arts. If you’re looking for a cozy, captivating way to see Amsterdam’s winter lights from the water, this cruise deserves serious consideration.

For those wanting more of an immersive or extended experience, exploring other options like heated cruises or adding food and drinks might be worth considering. But for pure scenic beauty and a peaceful, guided float through the illuminated canals, this tour hits all the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: