Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise

Imagine drifting along Haarlem’s charming canals, the soft glow of city lights bouncing off the water, and savoring carefully selected cheeses paired with quality wines. This is what the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers — a laid-back, intimate way to enjoy the city’s scenery and flavors. With a 1.5-hour cruise led by friendly hosts, it’s designed for those looking to unwind with good eats and drinks while enjoying scenic views.

We like that this experience combines a relaxed cruise with tasteful local foods and drinks. The fact that the cheeses and wines are thoughtfully curated by Café de Paris adds a layer of quality that’s hard to beat at this price. It’s also nice to see the small-group atmosphere—up to 30 travelers—for a more personal touch. But, a key consideration is the somewhat limited food portioning and the repetitive nature of the cruise route, which some might find less engaging over time.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mellow, social vibe, and those interested in a simple, enjoyable evening rather than a full-blown sightseeing marathon. If you’re after a memorable, low-stress outing with a hint of local flavors, this cruise could be just right.

Key Points

• Relaxed atmosphere with a small group size offers a cozy experience.
• Carefully selected cheeses and wines from Café de Paris ensure quality pairing.
• Beautiful views of Haarlem’s waterways and landmarks like Molen ‘De Adriaan’ and the Frans Hals Museum.
• Price point around $40, which offers decent value if you’re looking for a laid-back, tasty evening.
• Limited food portions might leave some wanting more, especially if you’re a foodie.
• Strict age restriction — no guests under 18, so it’s mainly for adults.

What to Expect from the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise

When you step aboard the vessel at Spaarne 11A, you’re greeted by welcoming hosts and a cozy heated boarding area — a thoughtful touch, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. The cruise begins at 5:30 pm, making it a lovely way to kick off your evening in Haarlem. With a total duration of about 90 minutes, it’s just enough time to relax without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise mainly skirts along Haarlem’s waterways, giving you picture-perfect views of some of the city’s most notable sights. As you sail, you’ll pass by Molen ‘De Adriaan’, a windmill dating back to 1779. It’s a charming historic spot, and the view from the water really captures its character. Expect to see the city center’s elegant buildings and perhaps catch glimpses of the Frans Hals Museum, which is a highlight for art lovers.

Passing the Teylers Museum — one of the oldest museums in the country — adds a cultural touch to the journey. And if you’re into local brews, you’ll enjoy passing the Jopen church, which doubles as a brewery. Though the cruise itself doesn’t focus on beer, the proximity to Jopen’s brewing operation is a fun nod to Haarlem’s vibrant beer scene.

The Cheese and Wine Pairings

The star of the experience is, of course, the pairings. The wines are described as high-quality, paired expertly with three cheeses imported from France and Italy. The cheeses are carefully chosen for their flavors, and the wines are selected to complement each cheese’s profile. Guests get to enjoy these pairings while soaking in the views, making it a sensory treat.

From reviews, we see that the wine quality is praised, and the refills are generous — “we got a nice refill and the wine quality was very good,” says one reviewer. The cheese portions are described as “very skinny,” which suggests that the tasting is more of a sampling experience rather than a full cheese board. Still, most find it enough to enjoy the pairing.

Atmosphere and Experience

The atmosphere onboard is noted as “nice,” with travelers appreciating the friendly hosts and the laid-back vibe. Because the cruise is not overly lengthy, it’s perfect for those wanting a gentle evening activity without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially good for couples or small groups of friends looking for a cozy, intimate experience.

One reviewer summed it up as “recommended if you are in Haarlem,” emphasizing that it’s a pleasant way to enjoy the city. That said, some mention that paying $40 per person might feel a bit steep given the portion sizes and the fact that the boat cruises back and forth along the same route.

Price and Value

At around $40.59 per person, the price is fair considering the inclusions of wine, cheese, and the cruise itself. When you compare it to other experiences, it’s a good value for a relaxed, scenic outing that doesn’t require much planning or effort. The fact that most travelers book about 20 days in advance indicates it’s popular among visitors looking for an easy, enjoyable evening.

However, some feel that the portions are small, and if you’re a foodie expecting a full cheese platter and a variety of wines, you might find it a little underwhelming. Still, the quality of the wines and the ambiance tend to compensate for that.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Arrive on time at the meeting point — the cruise starts at 5:30 pm sharp.
• Book a few weeks ahead since it’s a popular activity.
• Remember, the tour is adult-only; no children under 18 allowed.
• Wear comfortable clothes and consider bringing a light jacket, especially if it’s cooler in the evening.
• If you’re interested in more local beers, keep in mind you’ll pass the Jopen brewery but won’t be sampling it on this cruise.
• It’s a good idea to have a plan for after the cruise if you want to extend your evening, as Haarlem’s city center has plenty to offer.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy being near water, appreciate good wine and cheese, and prefer a more relaxed, low-key outing. It’s an excellent choice if you’re visiting Haarlem and want a cozy, intimate evening activity that combines scenery and flavorful bites. It also works well for couples or small groups of friends wanting to enjoy a nice drink without the fuss of a larger, more commercial tour.

However, if you’re after a full-blown sightseeing experience with substantial food, or if you’re traveling with children, this might not be the best fit. The small portions and adult-only policy are worth considering if you’re planning your evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, and you’ll receive a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, guests under 18 are not allowed, and the tour is geared toward adult enjoyment.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the 90-minute canal cruise, a selection of cheeses, wines, a toilet on board, and the welcoming hosts and skipper.

Are pets allowed onboard?
Only service animals are permitted; pets are not allowed.

How many people can join?
The cruise has a maximum capacity of 30 travelers, keeping the experience intimate.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider bringing a jacket, especially if the weather is cooler or if it gets windy on the water.

Final Thoughts

The Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a gentle, enjoyable way to see the city from its waterways while indulging in quality cheeses and wines. It’s not a high-energy, sightseeing marathon but rather an evening to relax, chat, and absorb Haarlem’s charm from a different perspective. The combination of scenic views, tasteful pairings, and friendly hosts makes it a lovely option for those craving a calm and tasty outing.

If you’re someone who appreciates good wine and cheese, values a cozy atmosphere, and enjoys gentle cruising, this experience is likely to please. Just keep expectations in check regarding portion sizes and the route, and you’ll probably leave feeling relaxed and satisfied. It’s a good pick for a laid-back night in Haarlem, especially if you’re looking to unwind after a day of exploring the city.