Amsterdam Light Festival: Canal Cruise Covered Saloon Boat

If you’re visiting Amsterdam during the Light Festival, finding a way to enjoy its magical illuminations without the hassle of crowds and endless walking is key. The Canal Cruise aboard a covered saloon boat stands out as a top choice—offering a comfortable, intimate, and educational experience that captures the city’s nighttime sparkle in a relaxed setting. This particular tour, rated 5.0 out of 5 from 128 reviews, combines scenic beauty, engaging commentary, and the chance to sip a drink while drifting along the canals. With prices around $22.68 per person, it’s an accessible way to see a different side of Amsterdam during this festive season.

What I find appealing about this cruise is the covered saloon boat, which means you can enjoy the views rain or shine without getting soaked or cold. Plus, the live commentary from knowledgeable guides like Eric E and Edom—who are praised for their friendliness and warmth—adds context and a personal touch that makes the experience memorable. An unexpected bonus is the inclusion of free drinks—such as wine, beer, or sodas—a simple touch that elevates the cruise from merely sightseeing to a cozy, social event. For those who prefer unlimited beverages, the upgrade option offers unlimited drinks, making it a true treat after a day of exploring.

A small downside to keep in mind is that during peak times, the boat can get crowded, with reviews mentioning over 60 people on board despite the advertised smaller group size. Also, the length sometimes exceeds the expected 1 hour 15 minutes, stretching to around 1 hour 45 minutes, so it’s good to wear warm clothes because the boat can get chilly, especially at night. Also, stepping onto the boat involves a fairly big step, so assistance is offered, but those with mobility concerns should consider this. The combination of views, comfort, and guides makes this a worthwhile experience, especially if you appreciate a relaxed pace and good company while enjoying the city’s lights.

Key Points

• Comfortable Covered Boat: Enjoy the illuminations without worrying about the weather.
• Engaging Live Guides: Guides like Eric and Edom receive high praise for their warmth and knowledge.
• Flexible Departure Times: Multiple options allow you to choose the best time to suit your schedule.
• Inclusive Drinks: Sip on wine, beer, or sodas included in the base price, with the option to upgrade for unlimited drinks.
• Authentic, Intimate Atmosphere: Despite some crowding, most reviews describe the cruise as friendly and well-organized.
• Ideal for a Relaxed, Scenic Evening: Perfect for those wanting to see Amsterdam’s lights without tiring their feet or battling crowds.

An introduction to the experience

Imagine drifting gently through Amsterdam’s iconic canals, surrounded by shimmering lights reflecting off the water, all while staying warm and dry inside a cozy saloon boat. This cruise, offered by Amsterdam Boat Experience, is a popular choice for both visitors and locals wanting a relaxed way to enjoy the city during its annual Light Festival. For just about $22.68, you get roughly an hour and fifteen minutes of scenic views, lively commentary, and the chance to unwind with a drink in hand. Rated perfect by most reviewers, it’s clear this tour hits the mark on many levels.

The appeal of a covered canal cruise

One of the main selling points is the covered saloon boat. This means you don’t have to brave the cold or rain—especially valuable during December in the Netherlands—while still soaking in the views of Amsterdam’s beautifully lit bridges, facades, and historic architecture. It’s a smart design choice for winter or unpredictable weather, and it enables the cruise to run year-round without weather-related cancellations, adding to the consistent quality of the experience.

I love how this aspect elevates the tour from a simple boat ride to a cozy, social event. Plus, a full-sized boat with a roof means everyone gets a good view, and nobody feels left out. The large step into the boat can be a challenge for those with mobility issues, but stewards are available to assist—something worth noting if needed.

The guides and commentary

The live commentary is frequently highlighted as a real highlight—most reviewers mention guides like Eric E and Edom for their friendly, warm, and informative personalities. They don’t just talk at you; they share interesting tidbits about the city, its history, and the festival lights, making the experience richer than just gazing at pretty views. This personal touch is especially valuable during festive events when the lights cast a warm glow, and stories make the experience more meaningful.

The drinks and amenities

For an affordable tour, the inclusion of a soft drink, wine, beer, or mulled wine is a nice touch. It turns an ordinary sightseeing cruise into a little celebration. Those looking to indulge more can upgrade to unlimited drinks—a good deal for those who want to relax and socialize without constant pay-as-you-go stops. Reviews praise the drink selection, especially the wine, as well as the clean and organized onboard facilities.

The itinerary and views

The cruise travels along the canals of Amsterdam, showcasing the city’s famous architecture and illuminated landmarks. Although the route isn’t specified in great detail, most reviews mention the experience of seeing the lights reflected on the water’s surface, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The lights change the entire feel of the city at night—this cruise offers an alternative to walking around the crowded streets.

While the one hour 15 minutes is just enough to enjoy the sights without fatigue, some feel it could be longer. A review comments, “I wish it had been about 30 minutes longer,” which is understandable if you’re eager to soak in every illuminated detail.

Practical details

The departure point is Prins Hendrikkade 33A, conveniently near public transportation, making access straightforward. The tour generally runs in the late afternoon to evening, giving you flexibility to start before or after dinner plans. The group size maxes out at 45, helping keep the atmosphere lively but not overwhelming. Weather considerations are important—you’ll want to dress warmly, especially since it can get quite cold, and prepare for possible crowds at peak times.

Who is it best suited for?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and social way to enjoy the Light Festival. It’s suitable for couples, friends, or small groups looking for an authentic Amsterdam experience that doesn’t require much physical effort. People who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a cozy atmosphere will find it especially rewarding. Those seeking a longer tour or a more in-depth historical exploration might prefer other options, but for a festive, light-filled evening, this cruise excels.

The Sum Up

This canal cruise during Amsterdam’s Light Festival offers an authentic, relaxed way to enjoy the city’s magical illuminations. Its covered saloon boat guarantees comfort in unpredictable weather, and the friendly, informative guides turn a simple boat ride into a memorable experience. The inclusion of drinks, especially when upgraded to unlimited, adds a celebratory touch, making it perfect for unwinding after sightseeing or as a festive highlight.

While the cruise can sometimes be crowded and longer than advertised, most reviewers agree the overall value remains high. The stunning views, combined with the warmth of the onboard atmosphere and the engaging commentary, make this a top pick for visitors wanting to see Amsterdam’s lights without the need to walk endlessly. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a cozy, scenic, and social experience with a taste of local hospitality.

If you’re looking for a smooth, visually spectacular way to celebrate the city’s winter magic, this cruise is hard to beat. Just bundle up, arrive on time, and prepare for a lovely evening drifting beneath Amsterdam’s bright, shimmering lights.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable if it’s raining? Yes, the covered saloon boat allows you to enjoy the lights without getting wet or cold, making it ideal for rainy weather.

How long does the cruise last? The experience lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, though some reviews mention it can extend to around 1 hour 45 minutes.

Can I buy drinks on board? Yes, drinks are available for purchase unless you choose the unlimited drinks option, which is included if added at booking.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, especially in winter, as it can get quite cold despite being indoors. Layering is recommended for comfort.

How do I get to the meeting point? The departure is at Prins Hendrikkade 33A, which is near public transportation, making access straightforward.

Is this tour good for children? Most travelers participate together, but since it involves a boat and some walking, check if children are comfortable with these conditions.

What makes this cruise stand out? The friendly guides and the beautiful, illuminated canals make it a memorable night out, especially with the option of unlimited drinks for those wanting to relax and socialize.