Open Dutch Boat! Silent electric drive. Nice cosy boat ride…

This review covers a delightful boat experience that’s a bit different from the usual crowded canal tours. Offered by Leemstar Amsterdam Canal Cruises, this open boat ride provides a peaceful, intimate way to see the city’s smaller canals and lower bridges. With a small group of up to 18 people, a live guide at the helm, and a silent electric drive, it promises a relaxed, authentic Amsterdam experience that feels more personal and less commercial.

What I particularly like about this cruise is how it combines authentic charm with quiet eco-friendly technology. The electric motor means no noisy engines — just the gentle hum of a well-restored boat — and that makes a huge difference in the overall atmosphere. The small size of the boat allows it to slip under lower bridges that bigger tour boats simply can’t navigate, giving you access to narrower, less-traveled parts of the canals. Also, the fact that you can bring your own drinks and snacks adds a fun, relaxed vibe—perfect for celebrating special occasions or just making the most of the journey.

One thing to consider is that this experience can be a bit adventurous, especially if you’re not comfortable with small, open boats or tight spaces. Some reviews mention the boat’s vintage design, built in 1928, which adds lots of character but might feel a tad nostalgic or less plush than larger, modern vessels. The tour’s reliance on good weather is another point—if rain or wind pick up, the experience might be less enjoyable unless the boat has some covered sections or heaters (which some reviewers appreciated on windy days).

This is a charming, well-reviewed cruise that champions a more personal, eco-friendly way to explore Amsterdam’s canals. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed experience where the guide’s local knowledge and the boat’s intimacy shine through.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group Size: Limited to 18 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere ideal for personal interaction and relaxed sightseeing.
• Electric Silent Drive: The boat’s electric motor guarantees a quiet, eco-friendly ride, making it easy to hear guides and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Access to Narrow Canals: The small size allows the boat to pass through lower bridges and tighter spaces, revealing parts of the city bigger boats can’t reach.
• Personalized Experience: The live guide, often praised for their knowledge, makes the journey more engaging and local-focused.
• Bring Your Own Bites: The flexibility to bring drinks and snacks adds a layer of comfort and makes it perfect for special occasions.
• Weather Dependence: Good weather is essential; the experience can be less enjoyable if it’s windy or rainy, though some reviews highlight cozy onboard heaters.

If you’ve ever wanted to see Amsterdam’s canals without the hustle and bustle of large tour boats, this open electric boat cruise is worth considering. It’s a rare chance to glide smoothly through the city’s narrower, less-traveled waterways on a vintage, restored vessel that’s both charming and eco-conscious. The tour’s charm lies in its small group size, personalized guidance, and the chance to explore those hidden corners of the city that bigger boats simply can’t access.

Why This Experience Stands Out

This cruise is a true departure from the typical crowded canal tour. The boat itself, built in 1928 and recently converted to electric power, has a nostalgic appeal, combining history with modern eco-friendliness. The quiet operation ensures you’re not deafened by engines, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience, especially when coupled with the captain’s local insights.

Another highlight is the boat’s ability to slip under lower bridges and navigate narrower canals, giving you access to parts of Amsterdam that often go unseen. This makes the experience feel more authentic and less touristy. The option to bring your own drinks and bites creates a casual, social atmosphere—whether celebrating a birthday, a special occasion, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon.

A Real Personal Touch from Knowledgeable Guides

Many reviews rave about the guides, often mentioning their warmth, humor, and local knowledge. One reviewer praised Flori as an “exceptional tour guide,” emphasizing how the personal touch made the experience memorable. The guides are live, engaging, and eager to share their insights, making the tour more than just a boat ride — it’s a lively, informative stroll through Amsterdam’s secrets.

Considerations Before Booking

While the experience is generally very positive, keep in mind that the boat is quite small, which might feel a bit adventurous for those not comfortable with tight spaces or open water. The vintage boat adds lots of character but may feel less plush than modern vessels. Also, weather plays a significant role; rainy or windy days might limit comfort, though some travelers mention the onboard heaters and cozy setup on cooler days.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who prefer a more personal, relaxed way of exploring. If you enjoy small-group settings, local guides, and discovering less obvious parts of a city, this cruise will fit perfectly. It’s also ideal for those wanting an eco-friendly option, or simply a quieter, more intimate alternative to larger boats. Perfect for celebrations or quiet reflection, it’s a gentle way to soak in Amsterdam’s beauty.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at Prinsengracht 587, a central location easy to reach by public transport or walking. The guide will greet you and introduce the boat, setting the tone for a relaxed and friendly journey. The route focuses on passing through smaller canals, where the intimacy of the boat really shines.

You’ll glide under lower bridges—something larger boats can’t do—offering unique photo opportunities and access to tucked-away parts of the city. The small size of the vessel means you’re close to the water, feeling almost like a local passing through Amsterdam’s hidden waterways.

The guide typically shares stories, history, and current events related to the areas you travel through, making each moment more engaging. Many reviewers appreciate how conversational and humorous the narration is. As the boat is open but with some covered areas, you’ll stay dry and warm in colder months, especially with onboard heaters.

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes—more than enough time to relax and soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The experience usually ends back at the starting point, completing a loop through some of Amsterdam’s most picturesque and less crowded canals.

Price and Value

At $34 per person, this cruise offers excellent value considering the personalized experience, the vintage boat, and the small group size. Larger, more commercial tours may cost similar or more but lack the intimacy and access to narrower canals that make this ride special. The ability to bring your own drinks adds to the value, especially if celebrating or enjoying a quiet moment with friends.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is best suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a more personal, eco-conscious way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways. It’s ideal for anyone who values authentic local experiences, appreciates vintage charm, or simply wants a quieter, less touristy perspective of the city. If you’re comfortable with small boats and outdoor settings, you’ll find this tour enhances your visit significantly.

FAQs

Is it suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but if you’re uneasy on small boats or in open water, consider your comfort level since the vessel is vintage and small.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own beverages and bites, making it perfect for celebrations or a relaxed outing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1 hour, a perfect length to see key sights without fatigue.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Prinsengracht 587, a very accessible location in the city center.

Is the boat historically significant?
Yes, the boat was built in 1928 and has been beautifully restored, adding a historic touch to your journey.

Do guides speak English?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable and often share stories with humor and personal flair, making the experience lively and informative.

This small-group, electric boat cruise offers a wonderfully authentic way to see Amsterdam’s quieter, narrow canals. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a more intimate, relaxed experience with a knowledgeable guide and eco-friendly boat. The vintage vessel’s ability to access hidden parts of the city makes it stand out from larger, more generic tours, and the option to bring your own snacks ensures a personalized touch.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, charming, and local-feeling boat ride that emphasizes sustainability and intimacy, this cruise fits the bill beautifully. It’s especially well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to escape the crowds for an hour and experience the true essence of Amsterdam’s waterways.

In summary, this cruise is a hidden gem for anyone wanting a quieter, more personal way to enjoy the city’s canals, with the bonus of a knowledgeable guide and vintage charm. It’s a wonderful addition to any Amsterdam itinerary, offering a taste of local life, history, and tranquility—all on a small, quiet boat that feels like a floating piece of art.