Viator Rating : 5 (812 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.8/10 (Verified Excellent)
Amsterdam
Amsterdam Canal Tour: 90-Min Small Group Boat Trip
90
Overview
Amsterdam Canal Tour by Open Boat – 90 min Small Group Experience: See Amsterdam from the water on a relaxing canal cruise. This boat tour is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of Amsterdam's canals in a small, intimate setting. A local captain guides the open boat along the city's iconic waterways and hidden gems.
During the 90-minute tour, see famous spots like the Amstel River, the Red Light District (De Wallen), and the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). The guide shares stories about the city's history as the boat glides past charming bridges and neighborhoods. The open boat provides great views of landmarks like the Munt Tower, the Zuiderkerk, and Amsterdam's Oldest Church (Oude Kerk). The tour also explores quieter canals, offering a peaceful look at the city.
The Amsterdam Canal Tour includes a 90-minute cruise with an English-speaking guide. Life vests, and blankets are available. Drinks are available for purchase; bringing snacks and drinks is welcomed. The tour excludes alcoholic beverages, soda, and bottled water. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (9 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (10 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
See Amsterdam's Best Canals: Glide through the famous canals and discover hidden gems.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personal and relaxed tour with a maximum of 12 guests.
Local Expert Guide: Hear stories and fun facts from a local captain.
Eco-Friendly Open Boat: Experience Amsterdam in comfort with cushioned seating.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
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Many enjoyed the small group setting, making the tour feel personal.
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The open boat offered excellent views of the canals and city sights.
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Customers appreciated discovering hidden gems and lesser-known canals.
Some customers mentioned that the weather affected their enjoyment of the open boat.
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A few wished for more information on specific landmarks.
The Journey
Amstel River (City Side)
Explore Amsterdam's city side along the Amstel River, where you'll witness the iconic 'dancing houses,' famed for their charmingly precarious lean. These historic buildings, a testament to Amsterdam's unique architectural heritage and soft soil, offer fantastic photo opportunities and a glimpse into the city's captivating history. Discover why these leaning structures have become beloved symbols of Amsterdam.
Small Amsterdam
Experience the intimate beauty of Amsterdam's smaller canals, offering unique and picturesque views around every bend. These charming waterways provide an enchanting perspective on the city's architectural gems and tranquil atmosphere, away from the main tourist thoroughfares. Discover hidden corners and capture stunning photographs of Amsterdam's serene beauty.
Munt Tower
Cruise past the iconic Munt Tower, a historic landmark that once formed part of Amsterdam's medieval defenses. Admire its elegant Renaissance architecture and learn about its fascinating past, including its temporary role as a mint during the Franco-Dutch War. Capture stunning photos of this striking tower as it reflects in the canal waters.
De Wallen (Red Light District) & Huis aan de Drie Grachten
Navigate the tiny canal bordering De Wallen, Amsterdam's infamous red-light district, and discover the striking Huis aan de Drie Grachten (House on the Three Canals). This unique building, built in 1609, elegantly spans three canals, showcasing Amsterdam's innovative architectural spirit. Witness the blend of history and modern-day culture as you glide through this vibrant area.
Zuiderkerk & Dancing Houses
Cruise past the iconic Zuiderkerk, a historic church designed by Hendrick de Keyser, and catch another glimpse of the famous dancing houses. The Zuiderkerk, completed in 1611, is a landmark of Amsterdam's skyline, while the dancing houses continue to charm visitors with their quirky lean. Capture both iconic landmarks in one memorable view.
Oudezijds Voorburgwal
Glide down the Oudezijds Voorburgwal, one of Amsterdam's oldest canals, and encounter sights like the Oude Kerk (Old Church) juxtaposed with the red-light district. Discover the captivating history of this area, where centuries-old architecture meets modern-day culture. Your guide will unveil the intriguing stories of Amsterdam's past and present.
Amsterdam's Oldest Church (Oude Kerk)
Witness Amsterdam's oldest church, the Oude Kerk, a magnificent Gothic structure that has stood for centuries. Marvel at its stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architectural details, a testament to Amsterdam's rich religious and cultural heritage. Explore the fascinating history of this iconic landmark.
Kolksluis (Kolk Sluice)
Navigate through the Kolksluis (Kolk Sluice), one of Amsterdam’s oldest working locks, dating back to the Middle Ages. Admire the surrounding traditional warehouses from the 17th and 18th centuries, providing a glimpse into Amsterdam's maritime history and architectural evolution. Experience the charm of a bygone era in this historic corner of the city.
Geldersekade Canal
Cruise along the Geldersekade canal, once the city's old boundary, and experience the vibrant tapestry of Amsterdam's culture. Linking the historic Nieuwmarkt to the bustling Prins Hendrikkade, this canal flows through the eastern edge of De Wallen (red light district) and Chinatown, embodying the city's dynamic spirit and diverse heritage.
De Waag (Nieuwmarkt)
Behold the beautiful De Waag, a 15th-century structure on Nieuwmarkt square. Originally a city gate, it has served as a guildhall, museum, fire station, and even an anatomical theatre. Discover its rich history and architectural significance, a testament to Amsterdam's ever-evolving cultural landscape.
Cozy Canal
Drift through a cozy and tiny canal, reveling in the intimate atmosphere and picturesque views. Experience the charm of Amsterdam's smaller waterways, where the pace slows and the beauty of the city unfolds in delightful detail. Capture the essence of Amsterdam's tranquil canal life.
Medieval Defence Tower
Learn about a medieval defense tower, a remnant of Amsterdam's historic fortifications. Your guide will reveal the tower's strategic significance and architectural features, offering a glimpse into the city's past as a fortified trading hub. Uncover the stories behind these ancient structures.
V.O.C. Ship 'The Amsterdam'
Learn about the V.O.C. ship 'The Amsterdam', an 18th-century cargo ship of the Dutch East India Company. Understand the importance of this ship and Dutch naval history. It highlights the country's significant role in global trade and maritime exploration during that era.
Modern Architecture
Cruise around a beautiful piece of modern architecture, showcasing Amsterdam's innovative design and contemporary aesthetics. Admire the striking lines and creative forms that define this landmark, reflecting the city's commitment to architectural excellence. Appreciate the blend of tradition and modernity in Amsterdam's urban landscape.
Amsterdam's Oldest Park
Enjoy the tranquil edges of Amsterdam's oldest park as you glide by, experiencing a serene escape from the bustling city center. Admire the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere, offering a refreshing contrast to the urban landscape. Appreciate the natural beauty and historic charm of this beloved park.
Nieuwe Herengracht & Botanical Gardens
Cruise along the Nieuwe Herengracht and past the peaceful and green Botanical Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of Amsterdam. Admire the diverse collection of plants and flowers, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Experience the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem.
Herengracht (Gentleman's Canal)
Cruise over part of the Herengracht, the 'Gentleman's Canal,' renowned for its opulent canal houses. Witness the most expensive and prestigious residences along the canal belt, showcasing Amsterdam's wealth and architectural grandeur. Admire the exquisite facades and learn about the history of these elegant homes.
Reguliersgracht (Seven Bridges Canal)
Experience the picturesque Reguliersgracht, better known as the 'Seven Bridges Canal,' and witness one of the city's most stunning views, best appreciated from the water. Marvel at the series of arched bridges that create a breathtaking perspective, especially at night when illuminated. Capture unforgettable photos of this iconic Amsterdam scene.
Prinsengracht
Cruise down the Prinsengracht, where you'll encounter a diverse array of houseboats and canal houses, each with its unique character and charm. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic canal, offering a glimpse into Amsterdam's distinctive lifestyle and architectural diversity. Discover the stories behind these floating homes and historic buildings.
Amstel River & Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)
Conclude your cruise on the Amstel River, passing under the iconic Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), one of Amsterdam's few remaining wooden drawbridges. Admire the bridge's elegant design and learn about its history, as well as the romantic tales associated with it. Capture a final memorable image of this beloved Amsterdam landmark.
Know Before You Go
This Amsterdam Canal Tour includes a 90-minute small group cruise with an English-speaking guide. Life vests are available upon request, and a rain canopy and blankets are provided for comfort. This tour excludes alcoholic beverages, soda, and bottled water.
Hot Tip
Bring a jacket, even on a sunny day, as it can get chilly on the water. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the cruise, though drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Review Summary
Customers generally say that this canal cruise offers an excellent balance of value, intimate group size, and knowledgeable local guides who share entertaining stories about Amsterdam's history and landmarks. Travelers particularly appreciate the smaller boat capacity (around 10-12 people), friendly captain-guides, inclusion of complimentary snacks and drinks, and the quieter, more personalized experience compared to larger commercial boats. The electric boat is praised for being eco-friendly and providing smooth, quiet rides. Common concerns include the open-boat design during rainy weather, the substantial step required to board, and the lack of toilet facilities onboard. Some reviewers note that while the experience is excellent value, beverage and snack quality varies. Overall, the tour receives strong ratings for providing an authentic, less-crowded alternative to mass-market canal tours while maintaining comfort and informative local commentary.
Frequently Asked Questions
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