Amsterdam: Guided Open Boat Canal Cruise Including Drink

Amsterdam’s canals are more than just pretty waterways—they’re the city’s veins, weaving history, architecture, and everyday life into a living tapestry. For many visitors, a canal cruise is the most memorable way to see the city’s sights and get a feel for its unique charm. We’ve examined a popular option, the Amsterdam Guided Open Boat Canal Cruise, offered by Mokumboot, and here’s what you need to know to decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

This experience combines comfortable open boats with insightful guides, plus optional unlimited drinks. We love how it balances sightseeing, relaxed enjoyment, and local storytelling. The price point of about $26 per person makes it quite accessible, especially considering the inclusion of a local guide and the chance to sit back and soak in the views. On the flip side, some travelers might find the one-hour duration slightly short if you’re eager to see everything. Overall, it seems best suited for those wanting a relaxed, informative introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways, especially if you enjoy a little socializing along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: A guided canal cruise offers genuine insight into Amsterdam’s history and architecture.
• Flexibility: Options include an open bar, making it a fun and social way to enjoy the city.
• Comfort and convenience: Electric boats ensure a quiet, eco-friendly ride, with blankets and umbrellas provided for comfort.
• Strategic stops: Photo opportunities at key landmarks help you capture the city’s essence.
• Value for money: For around $26, you get a well-organized tour with live commentary and optional drinks.
• Ideal for relaxed sightseeing: Perfect for travelers wanting a low-pressure way to explore rather than a lengthy tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Canal

This tour is designed for those who want to see the city’s most iconic sights from the water without the fuss of large, crowded vessels. The boats are electrically powered, making for a quiet, eco-friendly ride that won’t disturb the peaceful ambiance of Amsterdam’s historic waterways. The open boat format means you’ll feel the breeze and enjoy unobstructed views, which adds to the relaxed, almost intimate feel.

The Itinerary: A Clear View of the City

The cruise begins at either the Mokumboot Canal Tours location near Amsterdam’s Central Station or at another designated spot, depending on availability. From there, the boat heads out into the canals, with a local skipper at the helm and a guide providing lively commentary on the city’s landmarks and history.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll pass by several notable sights, including the Royal Theater Carré, the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), and the Hertogstraat, among many others. While the itinerary covers a wide range of famous landmarks and photo stops, it’s not an exhaustive sightseeing tour—rather, it offers a curated, leisurely perspective that balances narrative and scenery.

The Stops and Highlights

• Waterfront homes and canal houses: The canal houses are often the main attraction, with their gabled facades and historical significance. The guide’s commentary helps you understand their architecture and stories.
• Landmarks: You’ll sail past key sites like the NEMO Science Museum and the Het Scheepvaartmuseum—great for snapping photos and learning a tidbit or two.
• Photograph stops: Several photo stops are built into the tour, allowing you to capture landmarks like the Montelbaanstoren and De Sluyswacht. Multiple reviews praise the guide’s ability to point out interesting details, making each stop more meaningful.
• The Amstel River: The cruise provides a scenic perspective of the river, with views of the Royal Theater Carré and the Haarlemmerstraat.

Commentary and Guide

A knowledgeable local guide accompanies the cruise, sharing stories, historical facts, and fun tidbits that enrich the experience. Reviewers frequently mention the guide’s engaging storytelling—one called the guide “fun and interesting,” making the short trip both educational and entertaining.

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The Optional Open Bar: A Social Twist

For a small additional fee, passengers can opt for unlimited drinks throughout the cruise. This turns a sightseeing trip into a relaxed social event, especially popular among groups and couples. Reviewers like Daniella highlighted how the “flowing drinks and welcoming crew” created a first-class experience.

It’s worth noting that the drinks are included only if you opt for the upgrade, which offers additional value for those seeking a more lively ambiance or celebrating a special occasion. The open bar makes for a playful, less formal vibe—perfect if you enjoy a drink with your sightseeing.

Practical Details: What to Know

Duration and Timing

The cruise lasts around one hour, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing. You’ll want to check availability for the specific times, as the tours run throughout the day. The short duration is ideal for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick, scenic break.

Meeting Points and End Location

The tour starts at Mokumboot’s location by Amsterdam Central Station, directly in front of the Victoria Hotel, marked by a red banner. It ends back at the same spot, so you can easily continue exploring the city afterward. The convenient location near the station makes it accessible regardless of your itinerary.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the exact size varies, the boats are generally small, fostering a casual and intimate atmosphere. This allows for lively conversations, personal attention from guides, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Accessibility and Comfort

The boats are equipped with blankets and umbrellas, ensuring you’ll stay cozy and dry if the weather turns. Since the boats are electric, they’re quiet, allowing for a peaceful experience free of engine noise.

Cost and Value

At $26 per person, this cruise offers remarkable value. For less than the price of a fancy coffee, you get a comprehensive, scenic introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways, guided by someone who knows the city inside out. The optional unlimited drinks further enhance the value, especially if you’re looking for a social experience.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews echo how informative and enjoyable this tour is. One reviewer called it a “very fun, very chill” trip that offers a comprehensive view of the city while allowing relaxation. Another appreciated the beautiful weather, which made the experience even more special. Several reviewers highlighted the guide’s storytelling skills—calling them “interesting,” “fun,” and “kept it light.”

Others appreciated the value for money, with comments like “great tour for the price,” and the opportunity to relax while soaking in the views. The unlimited drinks option was seen as a nice touch, adding to the overall sense of celebration and leisure.

Some travelers mentioned that the short duration was perfect for a quick overview, but if you want a more immersive experience, combining this with other tours could be worthwhile.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour For?

This canal cruise is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a relaxed, guided introduction to Amsterdam’s waterways. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a pleasant, informal way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. The open boat design makes it suitable for those who enjoy fresh air and unobstructed views, and the optional open bar adds a fun, social element.

If you’re on a budget but still want a quality experience, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate local storytelling and want a comfortable, scenic ride that balances sightseeing with socializing.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about one hour, giving you enough time to see many sights without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of Amsterdam Central Station at Mokumboot, marked by a red banner, and ends back at the same spot.

Is there an option to get unlimited drinks?
Yes, you can upgrade to include unlimited drinks onboard, which many reviewers say adds a lively and social vibe.

What’s included in the price?
You get electric boats, a local skipper and guide, blankets and umbrellas if needed, taxes, and the optional drinks if you select that upgrade.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While families can enjoy the scenic views and fun guide, the alcohol option is geared towards adults. The boats are small and open, so keep that in mind for younger children.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, as you’ll be outside on the open boat. Layers and rain gear are recommended if rain is forecasted.

How many people typically join?
Group sizes are usually small, fostering a relaxed atmosphere and making it easy to chat with fellow travelers or the guide.

Final Thoughts

This guided open boat canal cruise offers a compact, enjoyable way to take in Amsterdam’s iconic waterways. It combines stunning scenery, engaging storytelling, and optional drinks, making it perfect for those who want a laid-back, authentic experience without the hassle of large tours or rigid schedules.

Whether you’re new to the city or just want to see the sights from a different perspective, this tour provides great value and plenty of memorable moments. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful views ensure it’s a worthwhile addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.

If you’re after a relaxed, affordable, yet insightful way to enjoy the canals, this tour might just be your perfect match.

You can check availability for your dates here: