Amsterdam: Light Festival Open Boat with Hot Choco

If you’re considering an evening activity in Amsterdam that combines art, scenic views, and a touch of warmth, the Amsterdam Light Festival Open Boat with Hot Choco might just catch your eye. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it’s right for you. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the details point to a cozy, visually impressive cruise that offers a different perspective of the city’s illuminated canals.

What we really like about this tour is how it transforms a typical canal cruise into a festive, art-filled adventure—especially during the festival’s 14th edition when over 20 stunning light artworks light up the waterways. Plus, the inclusion of hot chocolate or glühwein makes it an inviting way to enjoy a chilly winter evening. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that some reviews mention issues with the included drinks or blankets; so, it’s worth being aware of that before booking.

This experience is perfect if you’re after unique city views paired with cultural art installations, especially if you prefer an open-air cruise rather than a traditional enclosed boat. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere with a cozy touch. If you’re traveling with a group or seeking a memorable way to see the lights without too much fuss, this tour offers a pretty good balance of comfort and spectacle.

Key Points

• Beautiful Canal Views: See Amsterdam’s illuminated merchant houses, bridges, and cultural landmarks from a unique water perspective.
• Artistic Showcase: Over 20 international light artworks light up the canals, making it a visually stunning experience.
• Inclusive Warmth: Enjoy a free hot chocolate or glühwein, complemented by warm blankets on board.
• Live Commentary: The captain doubles as a guide, sharing stories behind the artworks and the festival.
• Convenient Location: Meeting point at Damrak Pier 6 is just a couple of minutes from Amsterdam Central Station.
• Duration & Flexibility: The cruise lasts around 75 minutes, with flexible booking options including full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This cruise offers an opportunity to see the city’s canals at night during the Light Festival, when the streets and waterways are transformed into a glowing wonderland. The boat is an open-air vessel, which means you’ll get unobstructed views but also need to bundle up. Fortunately, blankets are provided, along with your choice of hot chocolate or glühwein—perfect for staying warm while enjoying the sights.

Your journey begins at Damrak Pier 6, just a quick walk from the main train station, making it easy to access. As the boat glides along the canals, your captain will point out key sights like Het Scheepvaartmuseum, Hortus Botanicus, and the iconic Magere Brug bridge. Passing underneath historic bridges and alongside illuminated merchant houses makes for a romantic and festive atmosphere.

The real highlight is the artworks: light installations created by international artists, which transform the city into an outdoor gallery. These artworks are not just pretty; they evoke stories and meanings, which your captain will share during the cruise. The combination of art and scenery creates a memorable experience, especially combined with the panoramic views of the city’s historic architecture.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Damrak 13-15, the cruise smoothly takes you past several key sights:

• Amsterdam Centraal Station: While you won’t stop here, passing by the station gives you a sense of the city’s vibrant core.
• Het Scheepvaartmuseum: The Maritime Museum, with its historic ships and maritime artifacts, adds a nautical charm to the backdrop.
• Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam: Seeing the botanical gardens from the water offers a glimpse of the city’s green spaces glowing at night.
• Magere Brug: Known as the “Skinny Bridge,” this iconic crossing is beautifully lit, making for great photos.
• Herengracht: One of Amsterdam’s most famous canals, lined with historic buildings and brightened by festive lights.
• Grachtengordel-West & Brouwersgracht: These areas showcase charming, older neighborhoods with their own light displays and lively atmosphere.
• Haarlemmersluis: An impressive lock, adding a touch of engineering to the scenic cruise.

The tour then returns to the starting point, completing a gentle loop through the city’s illuminated waterways.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Meet at Damrak Pier 6: It’s a stone’s throw from the station, so you can arrive on foot easily.
• Dress warmly: Layers, hats, gloves—this is an open boat, so expect to feel the chill, especially if wind is blowing.
• Bring a camera: The views are stunning, and the light artworks are worth capturing.
• Be aware of reviews: Some travelers have noted issues like a limited number of blankets or missing drinks, so consider bringing additional layers if you tend to get cold.
• Book in advance: The cruise is popular during the festival, and flexible reservation options make it easier to plan.

Based on Reviews: What Travelers Say

While most reviews highlight the beautiful views and the overall charm of the experience, a few travelers mention disappointments. For example, one review from France pointed out that the drinks were not available as advertised, and the boat only had three blankets for about fifty people. Meanwhile, another traveler from the UK shared a negative experience regarding rude staff and the absence of hot chocolate—something to keep in mind if you’re expecting the full cozy package.

On the positive side, travelers like Jenny from Germany found the guide “attentive and heartfelt,” making the cruise feel very personal. Others remarked on the “immersion total” in the festival’s artworks, calling it a “magical” moment.

All in all, it seems the experience generally delivers on its promise of scenic views and festive atmosphere, but some logistical hiccups can occur.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This Amsterdam Light Festival open boat cruise offers a charming way to see the city at night, especially if you enjoy art and scenic waterways. The combination of stunning light displays, a relaxed open-air environment, and free hot chocolate or glühwein makes it a cozy, memorable outing, particularly during colder months.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates visual spectacles and doesn’t mind bundling up, you’ll likely find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Amsterdam itinerary. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience the city’s festive spirit from the water without the fuss of a traditional boat tour.

While some minor inconveniences have been noted, overall, this experience offers genuine beauty and a chance to see Amsterdam in a different light—literally. Just plan ahead, dress warmly, and enjoy the shimmering scenery and art installations that make the city sparkle at night.

FAQ

Is the boat open-air or covered?
It’s an open boat, so you’ll be exposed to the elements, which is part of the charm. Warm blankets are provided to help you stay cozy.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Damrak Pier 6, just a 2-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. The exact location is provided with coordinates for easy finding.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket includes the cruise itself, a live guide who explains the artworks and city sights, and a choice of hot chocolate or glühwein. Some reviews mention issues with the drinks, so bring extra layers or snacks if needed.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 75 minutes, offering enough time to enjoy the views without it feeling rushed.

Is it suitable for children?
The experience is outdoor and may be cold for young children, plus it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly. Consider your kids’ comfort in cold weather if you bring them.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Electric wheelchairs are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so check your mobility needs before booking.

Is it crowded?
During peak festival times, it can get busy, so early reservations are advised. The group size isn’t specified but expect a cozy, social boat.

Can I book this experience for later?
Yes, with the “Reserve now & pay later” option, you can secure your spot without paying upfront, giving you flexibility.

Will I see the same artworks as in other tours?
This tour specifically takes you through the 14th edition of the Light Festival, showcasing over 20 artworks. Different tours may have different routes or focuses, so check the details if you’re interested in particular installations.

This cruise offers a gentle yet captivating way to experience Amsterdam’s winter lights, perfect for lovers of art and scenic waterways alike. Prepare yourself for a cozy, visually stunning evening that highlights the city’s creative flair while giving you a new perspective on its historic canals.

You can check availability for your dates here: