Zaandam is a fantastic place to explore from the water. Its iconic windmills and traditional Dutch houses shine brightest when seen from a boat. The city’s compact size and scenic waterways make for a perfect setting for boat tours and cruises that offer both a relaxing ride and a storytelling experience. Among the options, we particularly love the Zaanse Schans Windmill Cruise – UNESCO Windmills With Live Guide for its intimate setting and rich commentary, and the Private Zaanse Schans Windmill Cruise On Luxury Boat for those seeking a more exclusive experience. Both tours showcase the best of Zaanse Schans, but each appeals to different kinds of travelers.
This list includes two main types of boat tours: a short, guided waterway cruise perfect for a quick overview, and a luxury private cruise for a more relaxed, personalized experience. Whether you want a quick glimpse of the windmills or a leisurely hour on a plush boat, Zaandam has a cruise for you.
1. Zaanse Schans Windmill Cruise – UNESCO Windmills With Live Guide
At number one, this small-group cruise offers an up-close view of Zaandam’s famous windmills. The 25-minute tour departs from the main dock at Zaanse Schans and is perfect for those who want a quick but informative experience. Your knowledgeable guide and skipper will tell you all about the history of the windmills and traditional Dutch houses, making it more than just a boat ride — it’s a story about Dutch ingenuity and craftsmanship.
What sets this cruise apart is its personalized approach. The tour is limited to no more than 12 travelers, which means everyone gets attention and a chance to ask questions. The route covers all 10 windmills of Zaanse Schans, along with sights like the chocolate factory, Whale hunting house, and tea house. The tour changes depending on the group’s interests, adding a layer of flexibility that larger tours can’t match. Reviewers love the informative narration and friendly staff, with one calling it “a must-do activity” and another saying the boat gives a whole new perspective on the windmills.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an excellent balance of affordability, intimacy, and insight, especially if you want an authentic experience with a personal touch.
2. Private Zaanse Schans Windmill Cruise On Luxury Boat
For those looking to splurge a little, the Private Zaanse Schans Windmill Cruise provides a luxurious experience. Starting from the main dock, this hour-long journey takes you past the iconic windmills on a comfortable, high-end vessel. The expert guide shares detailed stories about each windmill’s purpose — whether it was a sawmill or spice grinder — adding depth to the scenery.
This tour differs from the first because it’s private, catering to families, couples, or small groups who want a more relaxed and customized experience. The charming views of traditional Dutch houses from the water make for great photos, and the personalized narration helps you understand the significance of each site. With two reviews rating it perfectly at 5/5, travelers highlight the calm atmosphere and the knowledgeable guide, who makes sure you don’t miss any detail.
While it’s pricier at over $200 for up to 12 people, it’s an excellent value for a special occasion or if you’re simply after a more exclusive experience. Reviewers agree that it’s “a once-in-a-lifetime journey,” suitable for those who prefer comfort and privacy over a quick sightseeing trip.
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect if you want a luxury, personalized way to see the windmills and enjoy a peaceful water ride with a small group.
How to Choose Your Zaandam Boat Tour
If you’re trying to decide between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. The guided small-group cruise offers a quick, affordable look with plenty of storytelling, ideal for travelers on a schedule or with families. Meanwhile, the luxury private cruise provides a more relaxed and exclusive experience, great for special occasions or those wanting to treat themselves.
Think about how much time you want to spend on the water — 25 minutes or an hour — and whether you prefer a more personalized experience or are happy with a small-group tour. Booking early is recommended, especially for the luxury cruise, as spaces are limited.
Zaandam offers a charming and scenic water-based way to see its famous windmills and historic houses. For a quick, insightful visit, the small-group windmill cruise hits the mark. But if you’re after something more private and luxurious, the private cruise makes for a memorable, relaxed outing. Either way, these tours turn a simple water ride into a highlight of your Dutch trip — so don’t forget to book ahead and enjoy the waters of Zaandam from a new angle.
