Amsterdam: Evening Pizza Cruise Along the Canals

A fun, tasty way to see Amsterdam’s canals—by boat with pizza and drinks

If you’re looking for a laid-back evening activity that combines sightseeing, good food, and a bit of local storytelling, the Amsterdam: Evening Pizza Cruise Along the Canals might just be your cup of tea. This experience takes you on a 1.5-hour cruise through the city’s famous waterways, with the highlight being hearty New York-style pizza, unlimited drinks, and an upbeat crew that shares stories about Amsterdam’s history and architecture.

What I really like about this cruise is how easy it is to enjoy the city from a different perspective — on the water, cozy in a heated boat, with some of the best pizza in town. The fact that it caters to all ages means it’s a great option for families, friends, or couples. Plus, the inclusion of Wi-Fi and a toilet onboard makes it comfortable for a relaxed, no-hassle experience.

That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re a group wanting to sit together, you’ll need to book all your tickets in one reservation, as the seating plan is arranged beforehand. Also, this cruise isn’t suitable for bachelor or bachelorette parties, so if you’re celebrating a special occasion, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable heated boat ensures you stay warm while cruising through the city’s charming canals.
• Unlimited drinks—including wines, beers, and soft drinks—add to the relaxed vibe, making it a true social experience.
• High-quality pizza from New York Pizza offers vegetarian options like Margherita and Californian Veggie, plus meat choices like Pepperoni, Hawaii, or Chili Chicken.
• Knowledgeable guides and hosts, such as the lively crew mentioned in reviews, keep the atmosphere friendly and informative.
• Great value for money considering the combination of a scenic cruise, food, and drinks.
• Easy start location at Damrak Pier 5, just minutes from Amsterdam Central Station, makes logistics simple.

Starting at Damrak Pier 5, just a three-minute walk from Amsterdam Central, you’ll find yourself boarding a cozy, heated boat. The boat is equipped with Wi-Fi and toilets—small details that make a big difference on a 1.5-hour cruise. Once settled, you’re offered a drink and some salty snacks to get started, creating a welcoming, relaxed environment from the outset.

Why this matters: It’s a smart touch that most other tours might overlook. No rushing, no cold wait, just immediate comfort. Plus, the proximity to the station makes it an effortless addition to your day of exploring the city.

As the boat sets sail, your captain and host will share stories about the UNESCO-listed Canal Ring, weaving in tidbits about the city’s historic merchant houses, bridges, and landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the NEMO Science Museum. Many reviews highlight how friendly and “knowable” the guides are — a key factor in making the trip enjoyable.

You’ll drift beneath famous bridges like the Magere Brug and pass by the Dancing Houses, all while soaking in the views of Amsterdam’s classic gabled facades and lively neighborhoods. It’s a perspective that’s hard to beat — slow enough to appreciate the architecture, yet lively enough to feel immersed in the city’s buzz.

Tip: If you’re into photography, this cruise is a prime chance to snap stunning shots of the city lit up at dusk.

Once underway, your order of New York pizza is prepared fresh and served hot. Choices include vegetarian options like Margherita and Californian Veggie, or meat-lovers delights such as Pepperoni, Hawaii, or Chili Chicken. Many guests rave about how good the pizza is, with comments like “pizza was delicious,” and how well it pairs with unlimited wine, beer, or soft drinks.

Why this matters: It’s not just about the food — it’s about having a satisfying, social experience. The unlimited drinks keep the conversation flowing and make the boat feel more like a floating party, even if you’re traveling with a quieter group.

The cruise concludes back at Damrak Pier 5, after a leisurely 1.5-hour trip through some of the city’s most picturesque waterways. The seating arrangement is made beforehand, so if you’re with friends or family, make sure to book all tickets together. This ensures you’re sitting side-by-side to enjoy the experience fully.

On the downside: Because of this seating policy, separate bookings might mean sitting apart, which could detract from the group vibe. Also, it’s not suitable for bachelor or bachelorette parties, so keep that in mind if you’re celebrating.

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a focus on good food and scenic views. It suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun twist on sightseeing. If you love well-prepared pizza, unlimited drinks, and engaging commentary, you’ll likely find this cruise a highlight of your visit.

It’s also a good option if you prefer an activity with no complicated logistics — just show up, settle in, and enjoy. However, if you’re after a more historical or in-depth tour, this might feel a bit light on the facts. Still, for a casual, enjoyable evening, the mix of food, drinks, and views hits the right spot.

The Itinerary and What You’ll See

Your cruise begins at Damrak 16, near the bustling heart of city life, then passes iconic spots like Amsterdam Centraal Station, the Brouwersgracht, and the Prinsengracht, which are lined with historic merchant houses. Many guests mention the Anne Frank House as a passing highlight, with its significance adding depth to the views from the water.

As you glide past the Magere Brug, a picturesque drawbridge, you’ll appreciate how the water’s reflection makes every shot look postcard-perfect. Passing by the Dancing Houses and the NEMO Science Museum, you’ll see how modern architecture and playful design contrast with the historic buildings.

The Food and Drinks

The pizza from New York Pizza is a standout in this experience. Many reviewers, like Jessica, mention how the pizza is “by New York pizza which is always 10/10.” The unlimited drinks, which include wine, beer, and soft drinks, serve to elevate the mood and make the cruise feel more like a night out with friends.

Guides and Commentary

Guests frequently praise the guides for their friendly demeanor and knowledge, often noting that the stories about the city’s bridges and historic sites add a layer of interest. A reviewer named Dillon describes the crew as “very good, very friendly and a touch of comedians,” which hints at a lively, engaging atmosphere that keeps the cruise fun and informative.

Value for Money

Considering the fare includes a scenic cruise, a hot pizza, and unlimited drinks, many reviewers argue it’s excellent value. For just over an hour-and-a-half, you get a full meal, a relaxed environment, and scenic views — hard to beat in a city as picturesque as Amsterdam.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is especially appealing to those seeking light entertainment with plenty of social interaction. It’s perfect for families, small groups of friends, or couples wanting a relaxed evening. If you’re keen on a laid-back experience, with a good mix of food, drink, and sightseeing, this cruise delivers.

This Evening Pizza Cruise offers a well-rounded mix of comfort, casual sightseeing, and good company. The heated boat, friendly guides, and delicious pizza set the scene for a memorable evening without any pretense. It’s a smart choice if you’re after a fun, no-fuss way to see Amsterdam by water, especially if you enjoy socializing over unlimited drinks and tasty food.

While it’s not a deep dive into the city’s history, it’s an authentic, enjoyable experience that captures the city’s lively spirit. The tickets provide good value, considering everything included, making it a wise add-on to your Amsterdam itinerary.

If you’re after a relaxed, friendly, and tasty evening that’s suitable for all ages, this cruise might just be the highlight of your trip. Just remember to reserve all your tickets at once to sit together and enjoy the camaraderie.

Is the boat heated?
Yes, the boat is equipped with heating, so you can stay warm and comfortable even on cooler evenings.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery, food, and drinks without feeling rushed.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian choices like Margherita and Californian Veggie are on the menu, alongside meat options such as Pepperoni, Hawaii, and Chili Chicken.

Can I sit with my friends?
You can, but only if your entire group books all tickets together. The seating plan is arranged prior to departure.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available on the boat, making it easy to share photos or stay connected during the cruise.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s perfect for all ages. The relaxed atmosphere and scenic views make it a family-friendly outing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to travelers with uncertain schedules.

This cruise combines the best of Amsterdam’s waterways with good food and friendly company. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, it’s a solid way to unwind and enjoy the city’s unique charm from the comfort of a warm boat.