Lovely Cruises Open Boat Tours

Sailing on a small boat in Amsterdam is a must-do activity that’s fun for people of all ages. Whether you are travelling solo, with your partner, your best friends, your parents or even your grandparents, a canal cruise through Amsterdam is a must during your visit to this beautiful city.

Why should you choose an open boat tour in Amsterdam?

Experiencing an open boat tour through Amsterdam is a delightful and personal way to explore the city. It’s also how locals enjoy navigating the canals themselves. You too can experience this charming Dutch tradition with this open boat tour by Lovely Cruises.

During this canal cruise, you will board a luxury boat and discover the picturesque canals from the water. But what makes this Amsterdam canal cruise so unique is when the boat sails through the small canals. Here you will discover authentic parts of the city that many visitors never get to see. Thanks to this combination of famous hotspots and secret spots, Lovely Cruises' open boat tours are unique and allow you to experience Amsterdam from a new and surprising perspective.

How long does an open canal cruise take? 

Within an hour, you will sail through the canals of Amsterdam and you can choose from different time slots, so there is always a time that fits perfectly into your itinerary. Make sure you arrive at the boat at least 10 minutes before departure so that the tour can start on time.

Where does the open boat tour in Amsterdam go, and which sights will you see?

The open boat tour does not always sail the same route, because this depends on how much traffic there is on the water. However, thanks to the experience of our skippers, they know the most beautiful routes through Amsterdam’s canals, so you can always enjoy the cruise to the fullest.

During our open boat tour through Amsterdam, you will sail past both iconic places and hidden canals that large canal boats cannot reach. Along the way, you will pass famous highlights such as:

• The Canal District: Iconic 17th-century canal houses and picturesque canals.
• The Amstel: Amsterdam’s main river, offering beautiful waterside views and a glimpse of the Skinny Bridge.
• The Nine Streets: A charming part of Amsterdam full of boutiques, cafés, and unique local culture.
• The Jordaan: Quaint streets where you can experience the traditional Amsterdam atmosphere.
• The Red Light District: A world-famous neighborhood with historic buildings and a vibrant nightlife.

Where do the open boat ride depart from? 

Lovely Cruises' boat tours depart from two central locations:

• Amsterdam Central Station: easily accessible by public transport
• Opposite the Anne Frank House, close to Westerkerk

Thanks to these central boarding points, it is easy to combine your boat tour in Amsterdam with other sights in the city.

Is there a guide on board?

On board, a guide shares interesting stories about Amsterdam throughout the cruise, making each journey a unique experience. This way, you’ll always discover new places and stories about the city.

What ticket options are available?

Lovely Cruises offers four different open-boat tours. 

• Luxury Open Boat Cruise – Departure Central Station
  Easily board the open boat tour at the departure point at Amsterdam Central Station with this ticket.
• Luxury Open Boat Cruise – Departure Anne Frank House
  With this ticket, you can board the open boat tour in comfort at the departure point opposite the Anne Frank House.
• Luxury Open Boat Tour with Drinks – Departure Central Station
  With this ticket, you can board the open boat tour at Amsterdam Central Station and enjoy as many beers, wines, or soft drinks as you like during the cruise.
• Luxury Open Boat Cruise with Drinks – Departure Anne Frank House
  This ticket allows you to board the open boat tour at the Anne Frank House and enjoy as many drinks as you like while cruising.

There is a small bar on board offering a variety of drinks, so you can enjoy the view with a drink in hand while cruising! With the open boat tour with drinks ticket, you can enjoy as many drinks as you like, choosing from beer, wine, or soft drinks. With a standard ticket, drinks can be ordered on board. 

What to do when the weather changes during the cruise?

While cruising is most enjoyable in beautiful weather, Amsterdam’s weather can sometimes be unpredictable. But no worries, we are well prepared. On colder days, warm blankets are available, and umbrellas are provided if it rains. In bad weather, a tarp can be placed over the boat so you stay dry and can still enjoy the cruise.

How big is the open boat?

Our open boats are small, intimate and comfortable. With room for up to 30 people, the atmosphere on board is always pleasant. 

How can I get tickets for the open boat tour?

Booking your tickets for the open boat tour is quick and easy on our website. Choose the departure location that suits you best and whether you would like a ticket with or without drinks. Then select the date, time slot, and number of people, and you’re ready to book. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details, followed by a second email with your tickets. Don’t see your tickets? Please check your spam folder. If they’re not there, feel free to contact us, we’re happy to help!