Open Boat Canal Cruise in Old City Centre of Amsterdam

Discovering the Open Boat Canal Cruise in Amsterdam’s Old City Center

Imagine drifting gently along Amsterdam’s historic canals, soaking in views of iconic sights, all while enjoying the fresh air from an open boat. This particular canal cruise, offered by Boat Amsterdam, has earned a pretty good reputation — rated 4.5 out of 5 stars from nine reviews — and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this 1-hour scenic tour gives a great perspective of the city’s charming waterways.

What we really like about this experience is the combination of unobstructed views and knowledgeable guides. The open boat format makes it feel personal and immersive — you’re not just looking at a city from afar, you’re floating through it, right in the heart of everything. Plus, the price is pretty reasonable, around $23, making it a solid choice for travelers who want a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

One thing to keep in mind: routes may vary a bit depending on traffic, weather, or construction, so don’t expect a rigid itinerary. Also, since it’s an open boat, weather can influence your comfort — in cooler months, it might be a covered or heated version, but in summer you’ll likely be out in the open. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic outing and are okay with some unpredictability in the route.

All in all, this cruise feels like a smart pick for anyone wanting a personalized, scenic introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways, especially if you appreciate good value and engaging guides. It’s not a high-energy adventure, but rather a laid-back, scenic experience that offers a fresh perspective of a beloved city.

Key Points

• Unobstructed views from an open boat create a more immersive experience.
• Expert commentary adds valuable context to the sights you pass.
• Small group size keeps the ride intimate and personal.
• Flexibility in routes allows for variation depending on real-time conditions.
• Reasonable price point offers great value for a scenic tour.
• Weather considerations mean you might be covered or open depending on the season.

Exploring the Details of the Canal Cruise

When we think about what makes a canal cruise worthwhile, a few factors come into play: the scenery, the commentary, the comfort, and how well it fits into your overall trip. This particular tour hits several of those points well, especially with its focus on scenic views and engaging guides.

Starting Point and Timing

The cruise departs right in front of the Hermitage Museum at Amstel 51F. You’re advised to arrive about 10 minutes early, giving you enough time to settle in and get comfortable. The tour lasts roughly an hour, making it a manageable activity even if your schedule is packed with other sights.

Route Highlights and Variability

The route is described as passing by a series of notable sights, but keep in mind routes may change. The tour typically includes the main river Amstel, the Dutch National Opera & Ballet, and the famous Red Light District — all iconic parts of the city. You’ll also cruise past Magere Brug (the “Skinny Bridge”), a national monument with its own enchanting story, and parts of the UNESCO Heritage-listed canals like Herengracht and Prinsengracht.

Other highlights include historical buildings like the Cromhout House and Museumhuis Bartolotti, as well as the Westerkerk — the tower where Anne Frank once kept watch. You’ll also pass by interesting spots like the Houseboat Museum, the Museum of the Canals, and the Waterlooplein Market.

What the Guides Bring to the Table

Reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing stories and background that bring Amsterdam’s waterways to life. Sarah_H mentions how “Thomas and Michel” made the tour fun and informative, and Glennis_M appreciated the guides’ expertise. That kind of commentary turns a simple boat ride into a lively, educational experience.

Comfort and Weather Considerations

The boats are small, open electric vessels with toilets onboard, which is handy for longer or more relaxed cruises. During summer, you’ll likely be outside, enjoying the breeze and sunshine. In cooler months, the tour might be covered or heated, and umbrellas are available if the weather takes a turn.

Price and Value

At $23.05 per person, this cruise is quite affordable, especially considering the personalized experience and beautiful views. For less than a fancy dinner, you get an hour of sightseeing, guided commentary, and the chance to see some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights from a unique angle. Many reviewers consider it “the best value for the money”, especially when compared to other canal tours that can be more expensive and crowded.

Additional Options and Upgrades

If you prefer to relax with drinks, you can upgrade your ticket to include beverages on board. This adds a little extra comfort but isn’t necessary to enjoy the cruise itself. Also, in case of bad weather, the boat will be covered and heated, ensuring you still get to enjoy the ride without discomfort.

What You’ll Experience on the Route

Each stop and sight on this cruise offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s layered history and lively culture. As the boat moves through the canal ring — built in layers like an onion — your guide will explain how the city developed over centuries.

The Magere Brug is often a highlight, with its fairy-tale quality and stories. Passing the Red Light District might catch your eye and give some context to Amsterdam’s liberal reputation — all from a safe distance. The Jewish quarter and NEMO Science Museum are also visible, giving you a sense of the diversity and innovation in the city.

Authentic and Personal Experiences

Reviewers say the boat’s intimacy and the guides’ friendliness make this tour special. Glennis_M mentions how the guides were “awesome and knowledgeable”, which is key when the route can shift, and you want someone to fill in the details.

Why the Route Matters

While the route can change, the overall experience is that of a personalized, scenic journey through historic and lively neighborhoods. The boat’s small size allows it to navigate narrower canals and avoid the crowds larger vessels can’t, making it a more relaxed way to see the city.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This cruise is ideal for those who enjoy scenery and stories over a high-energy adventure. It’s perfect if you appreciate personalized service and want a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Families with older children who can sit comfortably for an hour will find it engaging, especially given the varied sights.

If you’re someone who values good value and wants a local-guided experience that offers a genuine feel of Amsterdam, this cruise ticks all those boxes. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy photography, architecture, history, and culture, all from a comfortable, eco-friendly boat.

The Sum Up

In the end, this open boat canal cruise from Boat Amsterdam offers a balanced blend of scenic views, engaging commentary, and affordability. Its small, eco-friendly boats and knowledgeable guides make it a standout option among Amsterdam’s many canal tours. The route’s flexibility, combined with the reviews praising the guides’ expertise, suggests a personalized, authentic experience that captures the city’s essence.

While weather can influence the experience, the boat’s options to cover or heat it ensure you’re not left out in the cold — literally or figuratively. This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic introduction to the city’s waterways, especially those who value good value for money and personalized attention.

Though it might not be the best choice for those seeking a long, in-depth journey or nighttime ambiance, it’s a perfect quick getaway for sightseeing, photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment on the water.

Overall, if you’re after a friendly, informative, and scenic experience, this cruise deserves a spot on your Amsterdam itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour generally welcomes most travelers, but you should consider the duration and the weather. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the boat is open-air, so cooler months could be less comfortable for little ones.

Can I bring drinks onboard?
Yes, you can upgrade your ticket to include drinks if you prefer to sip as you float through the city.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, and check the weather forecast. In summer, casual is fine, but in cooler months, bring layers or waterproof gear. The boat can be covered or open depending on the season.

How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive about 10 minutes before your scheduled departure at Amstel 51F. The cruise lasts approximately an hour.

What sights are included?
You’ll see the main waterways and notable sights like the Amstel River, Magere Brug, Westerkerk, and possibly the Anne Frank House, weather and route permitting.

What’s the group size?
The boats are small, with a maximum of 35 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and reasonably priced way to see Amsterdam’s waterways, this open boat canal cruise from Boat Amsterdam is a worthy choice. It combines the charm of the city’s canals with expert commentary, making it a memorable part of your trip.