Amsterdam: The Bulldog Boat Bring Your Own Booze Cruise

If you’re seeking a relaxed, social way to see Amsterdam’s iconic canals, the The Bulldog Boat Bring Your Own Booze Cruise might just be your perfect match. This 1-hour open boat experience departs from Leidseplein, a lively hub packed with bars and nightlife, making it easy to combine with other activities. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the reviews and description paint a clear picture of a fun, informal outing that appeals especially to groups of friends looking to unwind with a drink in hand.

What we particularly like about this tour is its straightforward approach—no fuss, no frills, just a chance to float through the city with your favorite beverages. Plus, the fact that it’s smoke-friendly and caters to those who want to bring their own weed makes it stand out in a city known for its liberal attitudes. One possible downside is that it’s only an hour long, so if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration or a longer cruise, this might feel a bit quick. But for anyone wanting a casual, social experience—especially on a sunny day—this tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Amsterdam’s vibrant canal life.

This tour is best suited for groups of friends, party lovers, or anyone wanting a laid-back, social way to enjoy the city’s sights. If you’re after a more structured, guided experience or dinner cruise, you might want to explore other options. But if your goal is to relax, have fun, and enjoy your drinks while taking in the scenery, this cruise hits the right note.

Key Points

• BYOB Experience: Bring your own drinks, snacks, and even weed—perfect for a personalized, relaxed outing.
• Open Boat Design: Offers unobstructed views, ideal for enjoying the city’s scenery on a sunny day.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Designed for socializing, groups, and party-minded travelers.
• Top Sights Visible: Includes highlights like the Skinny Bridge and canal houses, along with views of the Anne Frank House.
• Flexible Timing: Check availability for starting times, with a 1-hour duration.
• Accessibility & Convenience: Departure point is right at Leidseplein, with easy access and nearby amenities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Amsterdam: The Bulldog Boat Bring Your Own Booze Cruise is designed for simplicity and fun. Departing from Leidseplein, a central spot famous for bars and nightlife, the tour offers a quick but lively introduction to the city’s waterways. The open boat design ensures you won’t miss a thing, with clear sightlines to the canal houses, bridges, and key landmarks.

Authenticity is key here. As the reviews highlight, bringing your own drinks makes the experience flexible and budget-friendly. You can stock up at the nearby supermarket, just a stone’s throw from the departure point, saving money and avoiding overpriced boat bar options. This setup is especially appealing to those who want to control their drinks and snacks, making the cruise feel more like a casual party on water.

The vibe aboard is described as laid-back, with a fun, social atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “The captain was such a chill dude,” which hints at a relaxed environment without strict rules or formality. The smoke-friendly policy also adds to its appeal for those who enjoy recreational cannabis.

In terms of sights, the boat passes by some of Amsterdam’s most recognizable features. You’ll get views of the Skinny Bridge, a favorite for photographers, and the classic canal houses that line the waterways. You might even catch glimpses of the Anne Frank House from a distance, adding a touch of history to the cruise.

What You Can Expect

The tour lasts just 60 minutes, making it a perfect quick activity or a break between more extensive sightseeing. It starts at Leidseplein—so you can easily combine it with a meal or a drink at one of the neighborhood’s many cafes. The departure involves walking down the steps of a wooden jetty, where your boat will be waiting.

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the city’s canals. The open design of the boat ensures plenty of space to move around and socialize. Whether you’re lounging at the bow or chatting with friends, the experience emphasizes a fun, informal vibe.

The guide is described as knowledgeable and engaging, providing a bit of insight into the sights along the route. However, the emphasis remains on the social aspect rather than a detailed historical tour.

The Value for Money

Considering that the cruise lasts an hour and includes a live guide, the cost seems reasonable—especially given the flexibility to bring your own drinks. No additional charges for drinks or snacks mean you can customize your experience without worrying about expensive bar tabs. The central departure point also saves on transportation costs.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

From the reviews, it’s clear that participants love the relaxed atmosphere and the ability to bring their own drinks. One reviewer said, “We loved the way they joked around, and we could bring whatever drinks we wanted to.” Another appreciated the easy logistics: “It was really easy because the supermarket is right next to the departure point.”

The small-group vibe also seems to be a plus, with travelers feeling like they’re part of an intimate, fun gathering rather than a large, commercial tour. The captain’s chill attitude makes a difference, turning a simple boat ride into what one reviewer called an “incredible experience.”

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What to Consider Before Booking

While this cruise is perfect for a casual, social outing, there are a few points to keep in mind. Since it’s smoke-friendly and BYOB, it’s strictly for adults (18+). Children under 18 are not allowed, so this isn’t suitable for family outings.

The duration is only 1 hour, which is great for a quick escape but might leave those wanting more wanting to book additional tours or activities. Also, if rain or bad weather causes cancellations, a full refund is automatic, adding a layer of security for your plans.

Lastly, the route may vary slightly depending on conditions, but you’ll generally see Amsterdam’s top sights from a unique perspective. Keep your expectations flexible for minor route changes.

The Sum Up

This Bring Your Own Booze canal cruise offers a relaxed, social way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways without the constraints of traditional tours. Its open boat design, combined with the freedom to bring your own drinks and even weed, creates a laid-back, fun atmosphere perfect for groups of friends or party lovers. The stunning views of key sights like the Skinny Bridge and canal houses make it a memorable experience, especially on a sunny day when the city’s waterways shine.

While it’s not a long or highly structured tour, it shines in its simplicity, affordability, and authentic Amsterdam vibe. Expect a lively, informal cruise that’s all about good company, great views, and enjoying the city’s canal life.

This experience is best suited for those who want a flexible, easy-going activity that can be easily combined with their other plans. Just pack your drinks, snacks, and your sense of fun—you’re in for a memorable hour on the water.

FAQ

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Yes, the tour is designed for you to bring your own drinks, snacks, and even weed, making it customizable to your preferences.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, the cruise is only for adults aged 18 and over, especially due to its smoke-friendly policy.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes, providing a quick but lively glimpse of Amsterdam’s canals.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Leidseplein, where you’ll walk down the steps of a wooden jetty to board the boat.

What sights can I expect to see?
You’ll see Amsterdam’s top sights, including the Skinny Bridge, canal houses, and views of the Anne Frank House from a distance.

What should I do in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions cause cancellations, you will receive an automatic full refund, so your plans are protected.

This tour offers a blend of scenic views, social fun, and the freedom to enjoy your preferred beverages—all in a short, lively hour on Amsterdam’s famous canals.

You can check availability for your dates here: