Amsterdam: Light Festival boat tour with Unlimited Drinks!

Travelers looking for a charming way to enjoy Amsterdam’s Light Festival should consider the Light Festival boat tour offered by the Amsterdam Boat Company. It’s an experience that combines the shimmering beauty of the city’s canals with the warmth of a fully covered, electric boat — all served with the bonus of unlimited drinks. The review of this tour highlights what makes it stand out, who will love it, and what to keep in mind before booking.

We’re particularly fond of how this cruise balances informative commentary from a friendly captain with the stunning visual spectacle of light art installations. Plus, the cozy, heated, and covered boat makes it accessible even in colder winter weather. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the limited duration — just 75 minutes — which might leave some craving a longer experience. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a relaxed, social evening with a touch of cultural sparkle. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to enjoy Amsterdam’s festive ambiance from a unique vantage point.

Key Points

• Comfortable & Cozy: Fully electric, heated, and covered boat ensures warmth and dryness.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited Gluhwein, beer, and more create a festive, laid-back vibe.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly captain shares interesting facts about the Light Festival’s art installations.
• Flexible & Convenient: Two meeting points and easy booking options with flexible cancellation.
• Short but Sweet: 75-minute cruise offers a taste of Amsterdam’s illuminations without fatigue.
• Authentic Experience: High ratings (4.8/5 from 25 reviews) suggest genuine, enjoyable trips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Light Festival Boat Tour

Starting Points & Ease of Access

The tour begins at one of two convenient meeting locations near Amsterdam’s Central Station: Stationsplein 40 or Stationsplein 26. The choice of starting point allows flexibility, but both are central, making it easy to incorporate into your evening plans. Check the available times before booking, as departures vary.

The 75-Minute Cruise Through the Canals

Once aboard, you’ll settle into a fully electric boat that’s both heated and covered — a blessing during the winter months. The serene glide through Amsterdam’s canals feels intimate yet social, with plenty of space to relax and take in the sights. The boat’s design ensures you’re shielded from the cold and rain, so you can enjoy the view without weather worries.

The captain will provide commentary, sharing stories about the Light Festival and discussing various light art installations along the waterways. This personal touch adds depth to the experience, especially if you’re curious about the festival’s themes or the artists involved.

The Visual Spectacle of the Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city from late November through mid-January, filling its historic canals with artistic light sculptures. During the tour, you’ll see these installations illuminated, creating a surreal, almost magical atmosphere. One reviewer notes that their guide was “very friendly & informative,” making it easier to appreciate the artistry behind each piece.

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The Drinks & Atmosphere

One of the tour’s standout features is the all-you-can-drink offering. Expect Glühwein (a warm spiced wine), beer, and other beverages that help keep everyone in a cheerful mood. Comments from travelers mention “a solid selection of liquid refreshments,” and the blankets provided ensure everyone stays warm. This casual, social vibe appeals especially to groups or solo travelers who want to enjoy the festival with a drink in hand.

Authenticity & Quality

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer said their guide “told interesting stories and spreaded a great mood,” which emphasizes the tour’s friendly, engaging tone. The comfortable boat and warm blankets are frequently highlighted as thoughtful details that enhance the overall experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Details

Starting & Ending Points

The tour begins and ends at the same location, either Stationsplein 40 or 26, providing a simple, no-hassle setup. The availability of two points makes it flexible for different transport options and helps avoid crowding at a single spot.

Duration & Timing

The 75-minute duration is ideal for a relaxed evening activity. It’s long enough to see several installations and enjoy a drink or two without feeling rushed. Be sure to check availability to see which times suit your schedule, especially as winter evenings can get dark early.

The Route & Key Spots

While the exact route isn’t detailed, it primarily covers the Grachtengordel, the famous canal ring that’s the heart of Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage site. The boat glides through this picturesque area, giving you a close-up view of the illuminated art pieces and historic architecture.

Included & Not Included

Included in your ticket:

• A boat ride with a friendly captain
• Unlimited drinks, including Glühwein and beer
• Warm blankets and a hostess for comfort

Not included:

• Food (so consider bringing snacks if you’re hungry)
• Toilet facilities are only for emergencies, so plan accordingly

Accessibility & Practicalities

Note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. The experience is designed for those able to board and disembark easily, and the boat’s layout might not be fully accessible.

Cancellation & Booking Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Authentic Traveler Insights & Reviews

Based on 25 reviews averaging 4.8/5, this tour resonates well with visitors. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and the beautiful views. One comments that “our guide told interesting stories and spreaded a great mood,” highlighting the personal, lively aspect. Others mention that they appreciated the comfortable boat with blankets and drinks, making the chilly weather manageable.

A solo traveler felt comfortable and recommended the experience especially if you’re with friends or family, emphasizing the lively atmosphere and informative commentary. The consistent theme across reviews is that the combination of visual beauty and knowledgeable guides makes for a memorable evening.

The Verdict: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, festive way to experience the Light Festival without the hassle of standing in crowds or braving cold weather on foot. Its short duration makes it suitable for those with tight schedules or as part of a broader evening in Amsterdam.

The inclusive drinks and cozy blankets make it especially appealing for groups of friends, couples, or solo adventurers wanting a social, warm setting to enjoy the city’s light art. If you’re interested in art, culture, and a touch of local festivity, this tour offers an authentic, enjoyable way to see the city from a different perspective.

Final Thoughts

For just $38, the Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour provides a charming, easy-going experience that combines spectacular sights with warmth and conviviality. It’s more than just a cruise; it’s a chance to see Amsterdam’s canals in a new light—literally—and connect with fellow travelers over drinks and stories. The fact that the boat is electric and covered adds a modern, responsible touch, making it a practical choice regardless of the weather.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a relaxed, enjoyable way to soak in the holiday spirit. With plenty of positive reviews backing its quality, it’s an experience that’s worth considering during your festive visit to Amsterdam.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable in winter weather?
Yes, the boat is fully covered and heated, making it comfortable even on cold winter nights. The blankets provided also help keep everyone warm.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, providing a relaxed window to enjoy the lights and scenery.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at either Stationsplein 40 or Stationsplein 26, both centrally located near Amsterdam’s main station.

Are drinks included?
Yes, your ticket includes unlimited drinks such as Glühwein, beer, and other refreshments.

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

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to accessibility limitations.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English and Dutch, providing commentary during the cruise.

Is food available?
No, food is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to dine elsewhere before or after the cruise.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, the tour allows you to reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in your planning.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of beautiful light art, knowledgeable guides, and warm, relaxed atmosphere makes it a top-rated choice for experiencing Amsterdam’s winter festival.

You can check availability for your dates here: