Amsterdam: Light Festival Canal Cruise & Drinks Option

Summary

Glide past glowing art on winter canals with local stories

You’ll board an open electric boat in Amsterdam for the Light Festival canal cruise with a local guide at the helm. Warm drinks and blankets keep you cozy as you glide past illuminated bridges and art installations, hearing stories behind each piece. Expect quiet moments, city reflections on water, and a sense of being part of something fleeting yet memorable.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the hush — just water lapping and this gentle hum from the electric boat as we drifted under a bridge near Het Scheepvaartmuseum. Lights everywhere, but not harsh, more like someone scattered lanterns across the water. Our skipper, Joris, grinned and pointed out a sculpture that looked like tangled neon roots. He called it “Legacy,” which is apparently the theme this year. I tried to get a photo but honestly, it’s better in motion than on my phone.

It was colder than I expected (should’ve worn another layer), but they had blankets and the mulled wine made up for it. There’s something about sipping something warm while you’re bundled up and watching these wild reflections ripple past old canal houses — it felt both familiar and totally weird at the same time. Joris kept telling little stories about the artists behind each piece. At one point he asked if anyone knew why some bridges are lit differently; nobody did, so he explained how each artist interpreted “legacy” in their own way. I liked that he didn’t rush or sound rehearsed — he seemed genuinely into it.

We passed families waving from houseboats, and once a cyclist called out something cheerful in Dutch (I have no idea what he said). The National Maritime Museum glowed in blue light — somehow even bigger at night. The drinks were flowing for those who wanted them, but honestly most people just sat quietly or whispered, like nobody wanted to break the spell. I caught myself thinking about what kind of legacy I’d leave behind — not something I usually ponder on holiday, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise

• Board open electric boat
• Glide through illuminated canals
• View light artworks on bridges and façades
• Pass National Maritime Museum
• Enjoy local skipper's insights
• Experience cozy winter atmosphere

Top questions

What time does the Amsterdam Light Festival canal cruise start?

You can choose departure times between 5pm and 10pm when booking.

Is there a guide on board during the Amsterdam Light Festival cruise?

Yes, a local skipper provides live commentary throughout the tour.

Are drinks included on this Amsterdam canal cruise?

You can select an unlimited drinks option when booking your ticket.

Does this tour include pickup?

Yes, pickup is included with your booking for convenience.

Is this canal cruise suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can join; strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Can service animals come aboard the Amsterdam Light Festival cruise?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the tour.

Will we see famous landmarks during the canal cruise?

You’ll pass by several points of interest including the National Maritime Museum.

Is public transportation nearby to reach departure point?

Yes, public transport options are available close to where you board.

What’s included

Your evening includes boarding an open electric boat with live commentary from a local guide as you follow the official festival route through Amsterdam’s canals. You’ll have access to unlimited drinks if you choose that option, plus cozy blankets for warmth along with convenient pickup before your tour begins.