Amsterdam The Newest Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see Amsterdam that combines scenic views with local flavors, this Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise offered by Eco Boats Amsterdam might just be your perfect pick. While I haven’t taken this specific tour myself, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an experience that’s both relaxed and engaging—ideal for those wanting a taste of the city’s charm without the hustle of crowded tours.

What stands out? First, the small-group setting—with a maximum of 28 passengers, you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd. Second, the local skipper and host bring a friendly, authentic vibe, sharing stories and insights about Amsterdam’s sights. One potential consideration? Since the route can vary depending on weather and external factors, you might not get the exact views you expect every time. Still, this flexibility often means a smoother, more comfortable ride, whatever the skies decide to do.

This cruise suits a wide range of travelers: couples seeking a romantic outing, friends wanting a fun social experience, or even solo travelers eager for a relaxed, guided tour. If you appreciate good food, local stories, and beautiful canals, this experience offers a charming slice of Amsterdam.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate experience.
• Multilingual digital guide makes the tour accessible to non-English speakers.
• Electric boat provides a quiet, eco-friendly ride through the canals.
• Flexible weather accommodations with open, partly, or fully covered boat options.
• Includes Dutch cheese and unlimited drinks if booked, adding a tasty local touch.
• Departure right in front of Central Station makes it easy to find and convenient.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Canal Beauty of Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s canal belt (Grachtengordel) is a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. These waterways are the city’s arteries, lined with historic houses, charming bridges, and lively neighborhoods. The cruise offers a perfect vantage point to appreciate this architecture and the city’s layout, often missed when wandering on foot.

The route, while subject to change, typically includes notable sights like the Skinny Bridge (De Magere Brug)—a picturesque crossing that’s become an icon—and the Dancing Houses, which are famous for their quirky, leaning facades. You’ll also cruise past the Schreierstoren and along the Amstel River, soaking in the sights that define Amsterdam’s cityscape.

What makes this tour stand out is how it marries sightseeing with the relaxed pleasure of tasting Dutch cheese and sipping local drinks. This isn’t just a scenic ride—it’s a chance to slow down, enjoy some local flavors, and hear stories from your skipper, who acts as both guide and entertainer.

The Experience of the Cruise

The departure point is conveniently located in front of Amsterdam Central Station, marked by a dark green beach flag and staff clad in dark blue ‘Eco Boats’ shirts. The journey lasts around one hour, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules or young children.

Once aboard, your skipper and host will serve Dutch cheese along with unlimited drinks, which include wines, beers, or soft drinks—if you’ve selected that option when booking. This adds a layer of comfort and enjoyment, making the cruise feel more like a casual gathering than a formal tour.

While the boat is electric—meaning you’re gliding quietly through the water—its open, partly covered, or fully covered design adapts to the weather. In warmer months or clear weather, you’ll enjoy the breeze and sunshine; in rain or cooler days, the boat’s cover provides shelter without sacrificing views.

The multilingual digital guidebook, available in eight languages, ensures that non-English speakers can also follow along with key sights and stories. This thoughtful addition enhances the experience, especially for international travelers eager to learn about the city’s landmarks.

Highlights and Sights

Your cruise will pass by some of Amsterdam’s most recognizable sights:

• The Skinny Bridge—a symbol of the city’s romance and engineering ingenuity.
• Dancing Houses—a row of uniquely leaning buildings that seem to dance along the canal.
• Oosterdok and Schreierstoren—historic port areas with stories of the city’s maritime past.
• The Canal Belt itself, with its charming facades and picturesque bridges.

Many reviews praise the relaxed atmosphere and the stories shared by the skipper, adding context and personality to what you see. One reviewer mentioned how “the stories and the cheese made the experience feel special,” while another appreciated the “peaceful, eco-friendly ride” through the city.

Practical Details and Value

The duration of one hour is just right for a leisurely exploration—long enough to enjoy the views and conversation, but not so long that it becomes tiring. The max group size of 28 ensures a cozy vibe, allowing for more interaction with the guide and fellow travelers.

Price-wise, the tour offers good value, especially considering the included Dutch cheese and unlimited drinks—a nice touch that elevates the experience beyond a simple boat ride. The availability of skip-the-line booking and pay later options makes planning flexible, accommodating last-minute decisions or uncertain schedules.

Starting from Central Station means easy access, with clear directions and a recognizable flag. The option to choose between open or covered boats caters to all weather conditions—crucial in Amsterdam, where rain and sunshine can switch unexpectedly.

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Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxed, intimate experiences over large, noisy tours. It’s particularly suited for those who value local food and drink, and want to hear stories from knowledgeable guides. It’s also great for visitors who may prefer an eco-friendly ride—since the boats are electric—and for anyone wanting a flexible, weather-adaptable journey.

Couples seeking a romantic outing, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a casual, authentic experience will find this cruise a charming way to connect with Amsterdam’s canals and culture. For families, note the one-hour duration and the relaxed, friendly environment.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a charming, eco-friendly canal tour that combines scenic views with local flavors, the Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise by Eco Boats Amsterdam offers real value. The small group size, friendly guide, and flexible seating options make it a standout choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Amsterdam.

It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate good food, interesting stories, and a peaceful ride through one of the world’s most beautiful cityscapes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a different way to see the city, this cruise delivers a charming, memorable experience—privately guided and tastefully curated.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately one hour long, making it easy to fit into any sightseeing day.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from in front of Amsterdam Central Station, marked by a dark green flag and staff in dark blue ‘Eco Boats’ shirts.

What languages are available for the digital guide?
The free digital booklet is available in eight languages: German, Chinese, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, and English.

Can I skip the cheese and drinks?
Yes, if you prefer a simpler sightseeing experience, you can opt to cruise without the cheese platter and unlimited drinks.

Is the boat covered?
Depending on the weather, the boat can be open, partly covered, or fully covered, ensuring comfort in rain or shine.

Are drinks included in the price?
Unlimited drinks, including wine, beer, or soda, are included only if you select that option when booking. Otherwise, drinks are available for purchase.

This thoughtfully curated cruise offers a wonderful way to see Amsterdam from its waterways while enjoying some local treats. Perfect for those who want a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed fun—it’s a worthwhile addition to any city visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: