Amsterdam: Kingsday Party Cruise including Drinks

Discover the Amsterdam Kingsday Party Cruise – A Water-Level Celebration

If you’re visiting Amsterdam during Kings Day, the city’s biggest celebration of the year, you’ll find no better way to enjoy the festivities than on a Kingsday Party Cruise. While the streets are filled with lively music, colorful costumes, and crowds, this 90-minute water-bound experience offers an excellent alternative to the hustle, with front-row views and plenty of refreshment.

We like how this cruise combines the festive spirit with a comfortable, less crowded setting—giving you a chance to see the city’s iconic canals and lively boats while relaxing onboard. The inclusion of unlimited drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—adds to the convivial atmosphere, making it a popular choice among those wanting to party without the chaos of street crowds.

However, a potential consideration is the limited duration—at just 90 minutes, it’s a snapshot of the celebration rather than a full-day experience. Still, if you’re after a fun, authentic perspective of Kings Day from the water, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a lively, social experience that offers scenic views, easy access, and an all-inclusive drink package. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the energy of Kings Day without spending hours in crowded streets, or for anyone wanting a memorable Amsterdam celebration from a unique vantage point.

Key Points

• Water-based Celebration: Experience Kings Day from the water with front-row canal views.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks keep the party lively.
• Short and Sweet: 90-minute cruise delivers a lively snapshot of the festivities.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable onboard guides enhance the experience.
• Comfortable Alternative: Escape crowded streets while still soaking up the party atmosphere.
• Limited Capacity: Spots fill quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Kingsday Party Cruise Experience

Celebrating Kings Day in Amsterdam is a spectacle of joy, music, and bright orange everywhere you look. This cruise gives you a chance to see the city’s lively celebrations from a more relaxed vantage point—on the canals, rather than on congested streets. It’s a smart choice for those who want to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the throngs of pedestrians or the hassle of navigating through crowds.

The Itinerary and Experience

The cruise lasts roughly 90 minutes, with some departures possibly extending to 2 hours, depending on availability. Departing from central Amsterdam, the boat glides through the historic canals, offering uninterrupted views of the city’s vibrant street parties. You’ll pass by iconic canal houses, brightly decorated boats, and groups of revelers celebrating in true Dutch style.

The primary highlight is the front-row perspective—seeing the streets from the water, where the party unfolds on numerous boats and along the banks. You’ll witness the glowing, musical, and joyful scene that makes Kings Day in Amsterdam famous, but from a more comfortable and less chaotic spot.

The Atmosphere and Guides

The onboard atmosphere is lively but friendly. The crew is described as fun and professional, with safety always a priority. As one reviewer put it: “JASPER the skipper was a truly professional guy whose first assignment was safety for everyone and then the trip!” The guides do a good job of adding context and keeping the energy high, making this cruise more engaging than just a sightseeing trip.

Music also plays a role—expect tunes that match the lively mood, enhancing the celebratory feeling. The drinks flow freely, and the soft drinks keep non-drinkers or those wanting a break refreshed.

The Drinks

Included in the ticket price of $85 per person are unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. This makes the cruise an excellent value for those wanting a social drink in a festive setting. The reviews affirm this: “Very cold drinks in a hot sunny day in Amsterdam,” says one guest, highlighting how well the onboard refreshment service works.

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What’s Not Included

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to make their own arrangements to reach the departure point. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is a perfect fit for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience Kings Day in an accessible, relaxed environment. It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer a less crowded setting but still want to get into the spirit of the celebration. Caution: children under 12, pregnant women, wheelchair users, and vegans are not suitable as per the tour guidelines.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Departure and Boarding

The cruise departs from a designated central location in Amsterdam. Timing depends on availability, so it’s important to check and reserve ahead. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you get settled and find your spot comfortably. The small group size means a more intimate experience, but it also underscores the importance of booking in advance, especially on such a busy day.

The Canal Route

Once underway, the boat moves through the lively canals, providing a unique perspective on the festivities. The route is designed to maximize views of the street parties, colorful boats, and the city’s historic architecture.

The Festive Atmosphere

The boat’s ambiance is upbeat, with lively music and enthusiastic participants. The friendly crew keeps the mood light and fun, and the drinks flow freely—making it easy to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Kings Day. The reviews confirm this: “All of the services were great! Jasper the skipper was a truly professional guy whose first priority was safety, then fun.”

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

As you cruise, you’ll see some of Amsterdam’s most distinctive features: the picturesque canal houses, the buzzing party boats, and groups of locals and visitors in orange. The water-level vantage point allows for excellent photos, especially if you nab a spot at the front of the boat.

End of the Cruise

The cruise concludes after approximately 90 minutes, leaving you with enough time to continue celebrating or exploring on land. Many travelers find this a perfect way to unwind after a day of street festivities, with enough energy left for dinner or more exploring.

Analyzing the Value

At $85, the cruise offers excellent value for an all-inclusive experience during a hectic celebration. You’re paying for a scenic tour, refreshments, and a fun social atmosphere—all in a compact, well-organized package. The reviews show strong satisfaction: “Excellent music and very cold drinks in a hot sunny day,” and “It was a very exciting event,” highlight the enjoyment and quality of the experience.

This tour stands out because it provides an authentic view of Kings Day—from the water, away from the street crowds, yet fully immersed in the party. It’s an especially good choice if you prefer a more relaxed, comfortable way to celebrate.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

If you’re after a fun, lively celebration that combines scenic views with good company and drinks, this cruise is hard to beat. It’s especially suitable for those who want to escape the chaos of street crowds but still soak up the festive atmosphere from a perfect vantage point.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, enjoy a friendly social environment, and want to see Amsterdam’s iconic canals will find this experience rewarding. It’s a great option for first-timers wanting a memorable Kings Day experience without the exhaustion of navigating busy streets.

However, if you’re seeking a full-day event or family-friendly activities suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 90-minute canal cruise, live English-speaking guide, and unlimited drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks.

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

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, tickets must be booked ahead as spots are limited, especially during Kings Day.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, children under 12 years are not suitable for this tour.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the ticket includes unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks during the cruise.

How long before departure should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.

Is there a dress code?
While not mandatory, dressing in orange helps you blend into the Kings Day celebrations.

Are there any restrictions?
Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for the weather.

Can I reserve now and pay later?
Yes, you can book now with the “Reserve & Pay Later” option to keep your plans flexible.

To sum it up, the Amsterdam Kingsday Party Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and all-inclusive way to enjoy the city’s biggest celebration. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine water views, drinks, and a festive atmosphere without the crowds and chaos of street parties. Perfect for celebrants who want fun, comfort, and a taste of local Dutch cheer—all from the soothing waters of Amsterdam’s iconic canals.

You can check availability for your dates here: