Haarlem’s waterways offer excellent value for travelers wanting to see this Dutch gem from a different angle. The standard 50-minute Spaarne River cruise (€18.50) packs in the main highlights while keeping costs reasonable. Canal tours by open boat deliver up-close views of the city’s remarkable Golden Age architecture and are especially pleasant on sunny days. My favorite option is the 90-minute cheese and wine cruise – it combines sightseeing with authentic Dutch flavors, making it worth the extra time and money. For families or small groups, private boat rentals provide flexibility to explore at your own pace. Let’s check out the best boat tours Haarlem has to offer.
Key Points
- Haarlem offers a range of boat cruises, including the 50-minute Open Boat Canal Tour, Local Beer Tasting Cruise, and Private Boat Rental for intimate experiences.
- Cruises showcase historic landmarks, Dutch architecture, and the scenic Spaarne River, with knowledgeable guides providing commentary on the city’s 900-year history.
- Customer feedback highlights excellent value, beautiful views, and memorable experiences, with an overall rating of 4.1/5 for the sightseeing cruises.
- While most cruises are not wheelchair accessible, they are pet-friendly and offer a “reserve now, pay later” policy with free cancellation.
- Early reservations are recommended due to high demand, with online booking platforms providing easy access to cruise details and facilitating the booking process.
Haarlem: 50-minute Boat Cruise
Drifting along the picturesque Spaarne River, the 50-minute Haarlem boat cruise offers a delightful way to explore the city’s historic waterways.
For €18.50 per person, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Dutch architecture, commentary via audio guide, and the chance to see major landmarks like the Teylers Museum and Jopen Church.
With a maximum of 40 travelers per tour, the cruise provides an intimate experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s pet-friendly for service animals.
Reviewers praise the relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff, though some note language barriers.
Conveniently, you can book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Haarlem: Open Boat Canal Tour in the Historical City Center
Set out on a delightful open boat tour through the historical city center of Haarlem, where you’ll discover the charm of the city’s picturesque waterways.
This 50-minute cruise offers an optional audio guide, allowing you to learn about the landmarks and history as you glide along the tranquil canals.
With a customer rating of 4.3 out of 554 reviews, this popular tour provides a relaxing way to experience Haarlem’s rich culture and architecture from a unique perspective.
Priced at $21.05 per person, the Haarlem Sightseeing Canal Cruise is a must-do activity for those seeking to enjoy the city’s beauty and historical significance.
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Haarlem: Canal Cruise Spaarne Mill to Mill
Explore the Spaarne River on this captivating canal cruise through Haarlem’s historic heart.
You’ll pass by museums, castles, and heritage buildings, including a 16th-century weigh house. Marvel at the stately homes, green landscapes, and iconic windmills that dot the waterway.
A knowledgeable guide will highlight the importance of windmills in Dutch history. With open-top and heated boats, you can enjoy the journey no matter the weather.
This 4.5-star tour accommodates up to 40 travelers and includes all fees and taxes. Though not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and service animals are welcome.
Conveniently located in central Haarlem, the cruise departs and returns to the same meeting point, with a flexible cancellation policy.
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Haarlem: a Scenic 75-Minute Cruise With Refreshments Onboard
Experience the beauty of Haarlem’s waterways on this captivating 75-minute cruise along the Spaarne River.
Marvel at the picturesque city skyline, historic buildings, and iconic windmills as you glide peacefully through the water.
This popular tour offers refreshments on board, allowing you to sit back, relax, and fully learn about Haarlem’s serene ambiance.
With a rating of 4.3 from 554 reviews and a price of $21.05 per person, this cruise provides an excellent value for money.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local seeking a new perspective, this scenic journey is a must-do activity to experience the charm of Haarlem.
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Guided Canal Cruise in Haarlem, See All the Highlights
If you’re looking to see Haarlem’s top sights from a unique perspective, the Guided Canal Cruise is a fantastic option.
The 50-minute electric boat tour departs from the iconic Windmill De Adriaan, providing a sustainable and quiet experience. Along the way, you’ll enjoy commentary from a knowledgeable captain, who’ll share stories about Haarlem’s 900-year history.
The comfortable boats offer pillows and a cozy atmosphere, and you can purchase drinks and snacks at regular bar prices. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 34 reviews, this cruise offers great value for money.
However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
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Haarlem: City Cruise
For those seeking a captivating way to take in Haarlem’s historic cityscape, the Haarlem: City Cruise offers an immersive experience.
This 50-minute tour showcases the city’s charming canals and landmarks, earning a 4.3 rating from 554 reviews. Priced at $21.05 per person, the cruise provides an opportunity to leisurely observe Haarlem’s architectural gems and natural beauty from the comfort of a boat.
With its convenient duration and affordable cost, the Haarlem: City Cruise is an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore the city’s waterways and soak in its rich history and culture.
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Local Beer Tasting Cruise Through Haarlem
How about exploring Haarlem’s charming canals while savoring a selection of local craft beers?
The 90-minute Local Beer Tasting Cruise through Haarlem is the perfect way to experience the city’s historic sights and flavors. For $41.69 per person, you’ll be guided by a dedicated Beer Ambassador as you sample 4 special beers from the renowned Jopen Brewery, accompanied by amuse bites.
Cruise past landmarks like the Windmill De Adriaan and Frans Hals Museum, all from the comfort of a heated, semi-open boat.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a hassle-free way to discover Haarlem’s rich beer culture and scenic waterways.
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Local Cheese and Wine Cruise Through Haarlem
Aside from exploring Haarlem’s captivating canals, you can indulge in the city’s renowned culinary delights on the 90-minute Local Cheese and Wine Cruise.
Hosted by Smidtje Canal Cruises, this experience lets you savor a selection of Dutch cheeses and three exquisite wines as you float through the historic waterways.
Available only in July and August, the cruise is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot in advance. The price starts at $41.69 per person, and you can opt for a “reserve now, pay later” option.
With a heated boarding location, on-board host, and facilities, this cruise offers a relaxing and informative way to experience Haarlem’s culinary and scenic delights.
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BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise
Experience Haarlem’s picturesque canals from a unique vantage point with the BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise.
This 2-hour tour offers a scenic canal adventure while you savor a delicious BBQ meal. Priced from €65 per person, the cruise includes a live English and Dutch-speaking guide who’ll share stories about Haarlem’s rich history.
Feast on grilled meats, veggie skewers, and a welcome drink, all while taking in views of landmarks like the Grote Kerk and Molen de Adriaan windmill.
Ideal for friends and family, the cruise accommodates intimate groups but isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95.
Secure your spot with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Haarlem: Private Boat Rental City Center
Situated in Haarlem’s historic city center, the private boat rental service offers a delightful way to explore the city’s picturesque 900-year-old canals.
At just €89.80 per group, you can sail for 2 hours with up to 12 participants. The fully electric boats are easy to steer and include comfortable pillows and a swim plateau.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the host is available to explain boat operation and suggest scenic routes.
With a 5/5 rating based on 24 reviews, this experience provides great value and the opportunity to navigate Haarlem’s waterways at your own pace.
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Haarlem: Dutch Windmill & Spaarne River Sightseeing Cruise
For a delightful tour of Haarlem’s iconic windmills and picturesque waterways, embark on the Dutch Windmill & Spaarne River Sightseeing Cruise.
This 1.5-hour experience takes you past highlights like the Windmill De Adriaan, The Unicorn Windmill, and Teylers Museum.
Capture stunning photos of the Dutch architecture, enjoy scenic river views, and unwind with snacks and drinks onboard the semi-open or covered and heated boats.
Suitable for all ages, this cruise offers an informative guided tour and accessibility features.
With a 4.1/5 overall rating, it’s likely to sell out, so reserve your spot now and pay later.
Discover Haarlem’s charming waterways and historic landmarks on this memorable sightseeing adventure.
Read our full review: Haarlem: Dutch Windmill & Spaarne River Sightseeing Cruise Review
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Haarlem: Sightseeing Canal Cruise Through the City Center
This leisurely 50-minute sightseeing canal cruise showcases Haarlem’s historic city center from a captivating waterfront vantage point.
You’ll admire landmarks like the iconic Windmill De Adriaan, the stunning Teylers Museum, and the acclaimed Frans Hals Museum.
An audio guide available in multiple languages provides insightful commentary as you glide along the Spaarne River.
The semi-open or covered and heated boats ensure your comfort in any season.
This cruise earns high marks from customers for its engaging guides, beautiful views, and excellent value.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, it’s an effortless way to experience Haarlem’s charms from the water.
Read our full review: Haarlem: Sightseeing Canal Cruise Through the City Center Review
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The Sum Up
Haarlem offers a variety of boat tours and cruises to explore the city’s charming canals and historic landmarks. Whether you prefer a short 50-minute cruise or a longer 75-minute tour with refreshments, there’s an option to suit your interests and schedule. For a more personalized experience, you can even rent a private boat and discover Haarlem at your own pace. These cruises provide a unique and relaxing way to experience the city’s picturesque waterways.