Amsterdam: Classic Canal Cruise with Cheese & Open Bar

Summary

Drifting under bridges with wine in hand through amsterdam’s canals

You’ll float through Amsterdam’s historic canals on a classic boat with unlimited drinks and real Dutch cheese. A local guide shares stories as you pass landmarks like Skinny Bridge and Anne Frank House. Expect laughter, quiet moments, and that odd feeling of drifting through history with a glass in hand.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the old wooden boat creaked a little as we stepped in — not in a bad way, just enough to remind you this wasn’t some plastic party barge. Our guide (Martijn, who had that dry Dutch sense of humor) handed out slices of Gouda and poured us wine before we even left the dock. The cheese was softer than I expected, almost creamy, and I could smell the river — a mix of cold air and something greenish, not unpleasant. It felt like the city was waking up around us, bikes rattling over cobblestones somewhere close by.

We slid quietly past the Herengracht mansions, their windows shining gold in the afternoon light. Martijn pointed out the Mint Tower and told us about how coins were made there centuries ago — he made a joke about Dutch thriftiness that got everyone laughing. At one point we squeezed under the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), so low I ducked by instinct even though there was plenty of room. There’s something odd about seeing so many bridges lined up in a row — Martijn called it “the Amsterdam tunnel effect.”

I didn’t expect to feel much at the Anne Frank House but when we drifted by, it went quiet for a moment on board. Even with tourists snapping photos from above, you could feel something heavy there. The Jordaan looked different from the water too — less polished than postcards make it seem. Someone nearby tried to pronounce “Prinsengracht” and failed spectacularly; Martijn grinned and offered another round of beer.

I still think about that hour sometimes — how fast it went, but also how slow everything felt while floating along those canals. If you’re thinking about an Amsterdam canal cruise with drinks and cheese, don’t worry too much about rain or chilly weather; they’ve got blankets on board and honestly, the city looks good under clouds anyway.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Classic canal cruise with city views

• Board luxury classic saloon boat
• Enjoy live guided canal cruise
• Pass by Anne Frank House
• See Westerkerk church
• View Royal Theatre Carré
• Pass Rijksmuseum along Prinsengracht
• Cruise on Amstel River
• See multiple canal bridges
• Explore Jordaan neighborhood
• View Herengracht canal
• Pass Mint Tower (Munttoren)
• See Dutch National Opera building
• Cross Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)
• Optionally enjoy unlimited drinks and cheese

Top questions

Is there unlimited wine and beer on this Amsterdam canal cruise?

Yes, if you choose the option with drinks included, you get unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks during the 1-hour cruise.

Does this canal cruise include Dutch cheese?

Yes, two types of Dutch cheese are served on board if you select the drinks & cheese option.

Are guides live or recorded on this Amsterdam boat tour?

The cruise is live guided in English by a local host who shares stories and answers questions.

Which landmarks will I see during this Amsterdam canal cruise?

You’ll pass sights like Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), Mint Tower (Munttoren), Herengracht canal houses, Jordaan neighborhood, Amstel River, Rijksmuseum (from outside), Westerkerk church, Anne Frank House, and more.

How long does the classic saloon boat cruise last?

The experience lasts about 1 hour from boarding to return.

Is pickup included for this Amsterdam canal tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the designated dock near central attractions like Anne Frank House or De Bijenkorf depending on your ticket.

Can I bring children or infants on this boat tour?

Yes! Infants (0-3 years) can join for free; all ages are welcome but alcohol is only served to guests 18+.

What happens if it rains during my canal cruise?

You can cancel your ticket if you prefer not to go out in rainy weather; otherwise blankets are provided for warmth onboard.

What’s included

Your hour-long journey includes entry onto a classic luxury saloon boat with an experienced skipper and live English-speaking guide. If selected at booking, enjoy unlimited wine, beer or soft drinks plus two kinds of Dutch cheese served as you glide past iconic sights before returning to your starting point near central Amsterdam.