CHEESE AND DRINKS TOUR: A TASTE OF AMSTERDAM ON THE CANALS

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Amsterdam’s scenic canals with a culinary twist, this Cheese and Drinks Tour offers a relaxed, flavorful glimpse into the city’s vibrant life. While it’s not a deep dive into history or architecture, it’s a lively, authentic experience that combines sightseeing, local flavors, and good company—all aboard a silent, eco-friendly boat.

What makes this tour stand out are two particular highlights: first, the chance to sample locally crafted Dutch cheeses paired with your choice of three drinks, and second, the informative live storytelling from guides who share stories behind the city’s sights. The fact that the boat is entirely electric means a smooth and silent glide through the canals—no noisy engines to distract from the view or conversation.

One potential consideration is that the tour is only an hour long, which is perfect for a quick taste of Amsterdam but may leave some craving a deeper exploration. Also, navigating the steps into the boat requires some mobility, so those with mobility challenges might want to plan accordingly. This tour is best suited for anyone who appreciates good food, a relaxed pace, and a friendly atmosphere—perfect for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers who want a laid-back experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch flavors: Enjoy locally made cheeses paired with three drinks of your choice.
• Exclusive canal routes: Cruise through smaller, less-trafficked canals, avoiding large boat crowds.
• Eco-friendly sailing: Experience Amsterdam’s waterways quietly and sustainably aboard a 100% electric boat.
• Live storytelling: Guides share engaging tales about the city’s landmarks and hidden gems.
• Pet-friendly: Even your furry friends are welcome onboard.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, and reserve now to secure your spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Amsterdam Experience in a Short Time

This tour provides a window into Amsterdam’s charm without overloading your schedule. The 60-minute cruise lets you relax and take in the sights while enjoying some of the best local cheeses and drinks. The boat departs from Oudezijds Voorburgwal 226, a central location next to the Bulldog Hotel. From there, you glide through UNESCO-listed canals—famous for their historic 17th-century buildings, charming bridges, and iconic houseboats.

What makes this experience appealing is its combination of taste and scenery. The included cheeses are locally crafted, offering a genuine flavor of Dutch culinary craftsmanship. You get to sample the cheeses as you listen to your guide’s stories. The three drinks—whether beer, wine, soft drinks, or a premium cocktail—add to the convivial atmosphere. It’s an experience designed to please those who enjoy good food and drinks in a scenic setting.

The guide’s storytelling appears to be a highlight, with visitors remarking on guides like Angela, who is both funny and knowledgeable. One reviewer notes, “Angela the guide was both funny and knowledgeable!!” which sets the tone for a fun, engaging commentary that enriches the sightseeing. Passengers appreciate not just the views but the stories behind landmarks like the Oude Kerk or the Skinny Bridge, adding context and personality to the sights.

A Glimpse of the Canal Itinerary

The cruise follows a carefully curated route, passing through several notable spots. While the full itinerary includes stops at Oude Kerk, Amsterdam Centraal, NEMO Science Museum, Het Scheepvaartmuseum, Stopera, Herengracht, Skinny Bridge, Munttoren, and Grimburgwal, the focus remains on the journey rather than specific stops—since it’s a guided sightseeing cruise. Each landmark offers a photogenic moment, and the boat’s silent electric engine ensures you won’t miss a thing due to noise pollution.

The route is designed to showcase Amsterdam’s most scenic and historic waterways. The guide’s commentary helps you understand what makes each area special, from the architectural details to the stories of the city’s maritime past. Passengers have expressed particular appreciation for the stunning views and the chance to see parts of the city that larger boats might overlook.

The Food and Drink Experience

The Dutch cheeses served are a highlight—simple, locally produced, and paired with a variety of drinks. You’ll savor a snack-sized portion of cheese, ideal for tasting without filling up. The drinks menu allows for some customization: you can choose from beer, wine, soft drinks, or a premium cocktail. The included three drinks are enough to add a relaxed, social feel to the cruise.

Guests have complimented the quality of the drinks and cheeses, with one reviewer noting, “Good drinks and good cheese – what more can you ask for.” The casual setup makes it easy to chat and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or formal.

Comfort and Accessibility

The boat has comfortable cushioned seating with panoramic views, allowing everyone to take in the sights comfortably. Since it’s a 100% electric boat, the ride is remarkably quiet—perfect for conversation and soaking up the ambiance. The experience is pet-friendly, so bringing along a furry friend adds to the laid-back, inclusive atmosphere.

However, prospective travelers should be aware that getting onto the boat involves a fairly big step, and assistance will be available. It’s not suitable for those in wheelchairs or with significant mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

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Pricing and Value

At $36 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering it includes a guided cruise, snacks, and drinks. The value is enhanced by the up-close views of Amsterdam’s unique waterways, the engaging storytelling, and the relaxed pace. For a short, enjoyable introduction to the city’s canals combined with local flavors, it’s a good deal.

Keep in mind, this tour is best suited for those looking for a quick, flavorful introduction rather than an in-depth exploration. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a sunset activity with friends or loved ones.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy culinary experiences paired with sightseeing. It’s great for couples seeking a romantic yet informal outing, families wanting a light, educational activity, or friends looking for a fun, social way to see the city. The guide’s storytelling and friendly atmosphere ensure it’s accessible for most visitors, although those with mobility challenges should consider the steps into the boat.

If you’re a fan of authentic local flavors, scenic waterways, and relaxed learning, this tour offers a charming slice of Amsterdam’s life. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with tasting Dutch cheeses and drinks without the fuss of larger, more commercial boat tours.

The Sum Up

In sum, the Cheese and Drinks Tour offers a simple, enjoyable way to experience Amsterdam’s canals while indulging in local cheeses and drinks. The electric boat ensures a quiet, eco-friendly ride, and the live storytelling adds personality and depth to the journey. Its affordability, pet-friendliness, and scenic route make it an appealing choice for a wide range of travelers.

This tour isn’t about grandiosity or exhaustive history; instead, it’s about enjoying some of the city’s best flavors and sights in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for those who value authenticity, comfort, and good company. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a taste of Amsterdam’s charm with minimal fuss, this experience fits the bill beautifully.

For anyone wanting a light, flavorful, and scenic introduction to the city’s waterways, this cruise provides a memorable, accessible, and engaging option. It doesn’t overpromise—what it delivers is a delightful blend of scenery, stories, cheese, and drinks that will leave you with a warm appreciation for Amsterdam’s unique spirit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and children are welcome. Just keep in mind that the experience involves a boat ride and some steps into the boat, so plan accordingly.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts exactly 60 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that won’t take up your entire day.

What drinks are included?
You can choose from beer, wine, soft drinks, or a premium cocktail. You get three drinks included in the price, allowing for some customization.

Are pets allowed on board?
Yes, pets are welcome, making it a pet-friendly outing for animal lovers.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 226, next to the Bulldog Hotel, and ends back at the same location after the cruise.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The boat involves a fairly big step to board, so it might not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility challenges.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

With its combination of scenic views, local flavors, and engaging guides, this Cheese and Drinks Tour can be a delightful highlight of your Amsterdam visit—informal, authentic, and charming.

You can check availability for your dates here: