Amsterdam: Kingsday canal cruise with drinks

Summary

Experience Kingsday’s wild energy from Amsterdam’s water

Step aboard an Amsterdam canal cruise for Kingsday and glide through orange-filled celebrations with unlimited drinks in hand. Enjoy front-row views of party boats and historic sights like the National Maritime Museum, all while sharing laughs with locals and your friendly crew. It’s a lively way to join Amsterdam’s biggest party — one you’ll remember long after you step back on land.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the boat just as the city started to buzz — orange everywhere, even on the dogs. Our guide, Jasper, handed us our first beer before we’d even left the dock. The canal was already packed with boats, some blasting techno, others just people dancing and waving at strangers. I didn’t expect to feel so much part of it all from the water, but you really do — it’s like you’re floating right through the middle of Amsterdam’s biggest street party without getting elbowed every two seconds.

The air smelled like rain and fried snacks (someone on another boat had a whole tray of bitterballen), and every time we passed under a bridge, the sound bounced back at us — music, laughter, someone trying to sing “Wilhelmus” off-key. We sailed past the National Maritime Museum and Jasper pointed out that old VOC ship — I tried to get a photo but my hand was full of wine and honestly I just wanted to watch. There’s something about seeing all those old canal houses draped in orange flags while you drift by with a drink in hand that feels kind of surreal. Maybe it was the third glass talking.

People on shore waved and cheered at us like we were celebrities or maybe just fellow party-goers who got lucky with their spot. The crew kept things relaxed — nobody rushed us or tried to make it into a tour lecture. At one point I caught myself grinning for no reason at all; I still think about that view down the canal, sunlight flickering off the water and everyone just… happy. So yeah, if you want to see Kingsday without fighting through crowds or worrying about where your next drink is coming from, this canal cruise is honestly perfect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — King's Day Canal Cruise

• Sail past the former VOC ship

Top questions

How long does the Kingsday canal cruise last?

The cruise lasts 90 minutes.

Are drinks included on this Amsterdam Kingsday cruise?

Yes, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are included.

Is there a local guide or crew on board?

Yes, there is a friendly local crew guiding the experience.

Will we see any famous landmarks during the cruise?

You’ll sail past sights like the National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum).

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Is this Kingsday cruise suitable for families?

The cruise is suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

How crowded does it get during Kingsday in Amsterdam?

The streets are very crowded during Kingsday; cruising offers a more relaxed way to join in.

Does this tour include pickup or transportation?

No pickup is included; public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes a 90-minute Amsterdam canal cruise for Kingsday with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks served by a local crew as you float past iconic sights like the National Maritime Museum before returning to shore.