If you’re looking for a way to unwind and soak up the lively spirit of Groningen, a 2-hour booze cruise might just be your perfect answer. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, this experience has been highly praised by travelers, with a solid perfect five-star rating and glowing reviews. It’s a relaxed yet festive way to enjoy the city’s canals, especially if good drinks, upbeat music, and friendly company are your idea of a good time.
What really catches our eye is how this cruise balances chill terrace vibes with a party atmosphere — imagine cruising through beautiful waterways while the music and drinks keep the energy alive. Also, the unlimited drinks—including beer, wine, and soft drinks—are a major highlight, offering great value for what’s often considered a fun social outing. One thing to keep in mind: this experience is strictly for adults, so if you’re traveling with kids, this probably isn’t the tour for you.
This cruise looks like a fantastic option for those wanting a laid-back yet lively way to experience Groningen’s scenic waterways. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even a group celebrating something special, it offers a memorable, energetic setting with friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. Now, let’s explore the ins and outs of this experience in detail.
Key Points
- Relaxed but festive vibe — perfect for unwinding or celebrating
- Unlimited drinks included—beer, wine, and soft drinks for the entire 2 hours
- Beautiful canal views and a lively atmosphere combined
- Friendly, helpful staff ensure the experience feels welcoming
- Weather adaptable with an open roof for sunny days and closed for rainy weather
- Group size up to 75 people makes it a lively communal experience
What to Expect on the Groningen Booze Cruise
This boat tour promises a laid-back yet energetic 2-hour journey through Groningen’s canals, making it a great way to see the city from a different perspective. From the moment you arrive at the boarding point near the main station, you’re set for a fun ride with plenty of opportunities to socialise and relax.
The boat itself is equipped with a cabriolet roof — meaning if the weather turns sunny or rainy, you can enjoy the open-air experience or stay cozy under cover. The party lighting and music contribute to a festive ambiance, making this more than just a sightseeing cruise; it’s a celebration on water.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Groningen Netherlands
What’s Included
- Unlimited Heineken beer for 2 hours — think fresh tap beer, served from a fully stocked bar, making it easy to keep your glass filled
- Unlimited wine — red, white, or rosé, depending on your preference
- Unlimited soft drinks — for those who prefer non-alcoholic options or need a break from the alcohol
- Music — curated to keep good vibes flowing
- Toilet on board — a practical touch that’s appreciated during a two-hour cruise
- Weather flexibility — open roof for sunny days, closed roof if rain threatens
What’s Not Included
- Snacks — you’ll need to pay separately if you want to nibble on some bites during the cruise
Departure and Meeting Point
The cruise departs from Terrasje Speciaal at Groningen’s main station. The easiest way to find it is by searching “Terrasje Speciaal” on Google Maps, then heading left of the bridge toward the Groninger Museum. The boat typically boards at the concrete stairs marked with a beach flag (after the first trip), so keep an eye out for that. Note that this is not Rondvaartbedrijf Kool, which is on the other side of the bridge.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience in Detail
Once aboard, the atmosphere is described as super friendly and cozy. Multiple reviews mention the staff’s helpfulness and the welcoming vibe onboard. One traveler, Marijn, summed it up nicely: “Super friendly staff and a great atmosphere on the boat.” That friendly service really helps set the tone, making you feel like you’re hanging out with friends rather than just on a tour.
The cruise winds through Groningen’s canals, offering unique water-level views of the city’s historic architecture and charming neighborhoods. The scenic views combined with the upbeat music make it easy to relax and enjoy the moment. The party lighting elevates the mood further, especially as the sun begins to set or if you’re there during a lively daytime.
A standout feature for many is the quality of the drinks. The unlimited Heineken on tap is often highlighted as a top perk — “Heineken from the tap is top,” one reviewer mentions. The availability of wine and soft drinks ensures there’s something for all, whether you’re in the mood for a chilled beer or a glass of wine.
The Route and Stops
What makes this cruise enjoyable is the balanced route—not just a simple water tour but a lively journey through the city’s most scenic and lively parts. The route is curated to keep the energy up, and the music selection is tuned to foster good vibes.
The Social Aspect
It’s clear from reviews that the experience is best enjoyed when shared with friends or a lively group. The boat can hold up to 75 people, which tends to create a fun, bustling atmosphere but can also mean a bit of noise and activity. If you prefer a quiet, contemplative cruise, this might not be the ideal choice.
The Downsides
While most reviews are glowing, a few points are worth considering. The price of $41 per person is reasonable, given the unlimited drinks and lively environment, but it’s still a social event with no snacks included, so you might want to bring some small bites or plan to buy snacks at the bar afterward. Also, the strict age restriction of 18+ means this is purely an adult outing—no kids allowed.
The Value Proposition
For the price, this tour offers a lively, all-inclusive experience—you pay once, and the drinks keep flowing. The quality of service and the friendly staff enhance the overall experience, making it feel like a good bargain for a fun afternoon or early evening.
If you’re someone who enjoys a social atmosphere with good drinks and scenic views, this cruise hits the mark. It’s also ideal for celebrating birthdays, catching up with friends, or just enjoying some light-hearted fun on the water.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This cruise is best suited for adults seeking a casual, energetic way to enjoy Groningen’s waterways. If you love socialising, dancing, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand while taking in scenic views, you’ll enjoy this experience. It’s especially good if you’re visiting during the warmer months, as the open roof makes for a great outdoor feel.
However, if you prefer more tranquil sightseeing or are travelling with younger people, this may not be the best fit. Also, consider that snacks aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re fasting or expecting to eat during the cruise.
Final Thoughts
The Groningen 2-hour Booze Cruise offers a fun, lively way to explore the city’s canals. The combination of unlimited drinks, friendly staff, and good music makes it a popular choice for those wanting to add some social energy to their trip. It’s not a refined sightseeing tour — it’s more about the experience, the vibe, and the shared fun.
If you’re after a relaxed but energetic outing and enjoy the idea of cruising through Groningen with a drink in hand, this is a solid pick. Just remember, it’s an adult experience with a focus on socialising, so plan your day accordingly.
Groningen: 2-hour Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks
FAQs
Is this cruise suitable for children?
No, this tour is strictly for those aged 18 and over, so it’s not suitable for children.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The boat has a closed roof option for rainy days, so your experience can stay cozy and dry no matter the forecast.
Are snacks provided on the cruise?
No, snacks are not included. You can purchase food separately at the bar or bring your own, though large luggage or food isn’t allowed onboard.
How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy drinks, music, and the scenery without it feeling rushed.
What’s the group size?
The boat can accommodate up to 75 people, making it lively but not overcrowded.
How do I find the departure point?
Search for “Terrasje Speciaal” near Groningen’s main station on Google Maps. Board at the concrete stairs marked with a beach flag, usually on the left side of the bridge.
If you’re seeking a vibrant, social way to see Groningen’s canals with unlimited drinks and great company, this cruise could be just what you need for a memorable day on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:
