If you’re planning a visit to Amsterdam and want a way to see the city that’s both intimate and fun, a private boat trip with pizza and drinks might be just what you need. Priced at around $283.73 per person, this experience offers a 1.5-hour cruise through the city’s famous canals, complete with unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks—and a hot pizza. It’s designed for small groups of up to 15 people, making it a more personalized alternative to larger, public tours. From the moment I looked into it, what stood out was the promise of a relaxed, food-filled water journey with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way past iconic sights like the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and the floating flower market.
What I love about this tour are two things in particular. First, the personalized nature of the experience. Knowing it’s just your group means the captain, often praised for being friendly and well-informed, can tailor the journey slightly—pointing out the sights that interest you most. And second, the quality of the included food and drinks. The pizza options are varied, from classic Margherita to Funghi, and the unlimited drinks—wine, beer, or soft drinks—are a real treat, especially after a day of sightseeing. According to rave reviews, guides like Okkee are not only punctual but also show a great knowledge of the city’s landmarks.
However, there is one aspect worth considering. Since this is a private tour booked usually 21 days in advance and with the price tag attached, it might feel a bit costly if you’re traveling on a tight budget. And, like any boat-based experience, it’s weather-dependent—so a rainy day could dampen the mood. Plus, a couple of reviews mention the importance of punctuality and reliability, so confirming your skipper beforehand is advisable.
Key Points

- Personalized experience for small groups provides a more relaxed and flexible way to explore Amsterdam’s canals.
- Inclusive food and drinks—hot pizza and unlimited beverages—add great value, especially for those who want an informal, all-in-one experience.
- Ideal location near Centraal Station makes it easy to join and depart without extra hassle.
- Knowledgeable guides/skippers can elevate the experience by sharing insights and pointing out key sites.
- Weather reliance is a factor; check the forecast to avoid disappointment.
- Advance booking is recommended, often 21 days ahead, to secure your preferred date.
An In-Depth Look at the Private Canal Cruise Experience

If you’ve ever wanted to experience Amsterdam’s waterways without the crowds, this private boat trip offers a wonderful blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and good food. The boat itself isn’t specified as luxurious, but reviews suggest it’s clean, comfortable, and well-suited for small groups. Being private means you won’t be overwhelmed by strangers, and you can customize your focus—perhaps more on the scenery or the history.
The journey begins at Oosterdokskade 8, conveniently close to Amsterdam’s Central Station. The departure point is easy to reach, and the cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, a perfect length to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. This is especially important as the boat’s route covers some of the most Instagram-worthy spots, including the magical Skinny Bridge, the vibrant Flowermarkt, and the historic canals lined with classic canal houses.
One of the most praised aspects is the guide or skipper, like Okkee, who is lauded for his friendliness and knowledge. Your guide’s role is crucial; they steer and provide commentary, making sure you understand what you’re looking at while keeping the atmosphere light and friendly. Several reviews mention the quality of the pizza, described as hot and satisfying, with a good variety of toppings and cheese options. The unlimited drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—are available throughout, making it easy to relax and unwind mid-sail.
What sets this tour apart is the level of flexibility it offers. The cruise is designed exclusively for your group of up to 15 people, which means you can ask questions, take photos without fear of blocking others, or just soak in the views at your own pace. The route includes highlights like the Red Light District’s historic architecture and the floating flower market, giving you a broad sense of different Amsterdam neighborhoods without the need for multiple visits or public transport.
From the reviews, I learned that the guide’s friendliness and punctuality greatly influence the experience. One reviewer noted that their guide was “very kind and showed knowledge of the local spots,” which helped make the trip more engaging. The pizza was consistently ranked as delicious, and the drinks added a relaxed, social vibe to the cruise. Still, a review pointing out that the skipper didn’t show up highlights the importance of confirming your booking and staying flexible.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Amsterdam
What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind
You’ll get one pizza per person with a choice of flavors, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, and a local guide/skipper. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly. It’s worth noting that most travelers book their tickets about three weeks in advance, emphasizing the popularity of this experience.
Who Would Love This?
This tour suits couples, friends, or small families who want an intimate way to see Amsterdam’s canals while enjoying good food and drinks. It’s also perfect for special occasions like hen weekends or celebrations. Keep in mind it’s geared toward adults over 18 due to alcohol consumption, and the experience is weather-dependent—so check the forecast before booking.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re into personalized experiences and enjoy the idea of combining sightseeing with a relaxed meal and drinks, this private boat trip is a solid choice. The value lies not just in the sights but in the comfort and camaraderie of a small group with a knowledgeable guide at the helm. It’s a way to see some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful canals without the noise or rush of larger tours.
However, consider your budget and weather conditions—if you’re seeking a more budget-friendly or rainy-day alternative, you might want to explore other options. But for those wanting a memorable, authentic water-based experience that mixes scenic views with good company and tasty pizza, this tour should fit the bill nicely.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour has a minimum age of 18 due to the unlimited alcohol on board.
How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the sights and relax.
Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Oosterdokskade 8, near Central Station, and the tour ends back at the same location.
Are drinks unlimited during the cruise?
Yes, you can enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks throughout the ride.
Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
No, it does not include hotel transportation, so plan to meet at the designated location.
How do I confirm my booking?
Most bookings are confirmed immediately upon reservation, and you should receive your tickets electronically. Confirm details with the tour provider if needed.
What if it rains?
The experience is weather-dependent. If it rains, the boat may be less comfortable, so check the forecast and consider rain gear or rescheduling if possible.
Is the guide or skipper English-speaking?
Yes, the guides are knowledgeable and communicate effectively, with reviews highlighting their friendliness and insight.
This private boat trip combines the classic appeal of Amsterdam’s canals with the comfort of a small, flexible group and the pleasure of good food and drink. It’s an experience that leaves you with relaxed memories and plenty of photos—ideal for visitors wanting a break from walking or crowded tours. Whether celebrating or simply seeking a charming way to see the city, this cruise offers a cozy, authentic taste of Amsterdam’s waterways.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Including Snacks and Drinks
- Amsterdam 1-Hour Canal Cruise With Live Guide
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise on a Small Open Boat (Max 12 Guests)
- Dutch Cheese and Drinks Guided Amsterdam Boat Tour
- Amazing Open Boat Amsterdam Canal Cruise With Two Drinks Incl.
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise With Live Guide and Onboard Bar
More Private Tours in Amsterdam
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip with Cruise
- Amsterdam: Official SAIL Experience with Fireworks & Bubbles
- Romantic Private Dinner Cruise Amsterdam
- Visit Amsterdam by Boat with a French Guide (french)
- Unforgettable SAIL 2025 Night Drinks & Fireworks
- Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket & Canal Cruise
More Tour Reviews in Amsterdam
- Van Gogh and Rijksmusuem Tour: Small Group Tour with Entry
- Amsterdam: Private Photo Session with 10 Edited Photos
- Amsterdam: Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery
- From Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague Guided Day Tour
- Zaanse Schans: Half-Day Private Guided Tour
- Zaanse Schans: E-bike day trip: Windmills, Cheese and Nature
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Amsterdam we have recnetly reviewed
- New Optimist: Atelier Visit & Shopping tour
- From Amsterdam: Tulip Fields of Holland Tour
- Zaanse Schans Windmills, Volendam, and Marken Day Trip
- Amsterdam: to the Dutch Countryside – Exclusive Private Tour
- Amsterdam: SAIL 2025 with the Bulldog Boat Smoke cruise
- Your Own Amsterdam. The Old Side
- REDKULT: Red Light District & Historical City Center
- Photoshoot in or around Amsterdam
- Amsterdam: Combo Rijksmuseum & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
- From Amsterdam: Brugge Day Trip and Walking Tour
- Private Tour Veluwe National Park and Kröller Müller Museum
- Personalized Netherlands Full-Day Guided Tour from the Hotel
