Amsterdam is world-famous for its enchanting canals that thread through the heart of the city. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Best Canal Trips in Amsterdam offer a dreamy perspective of Dutch architecture, rich history, and modern charm. In 2025, the canal cruise scene in Amsterdam has never looked better—with themed boats, eco-friendly vessels, and gourmet experiences on the water.
Top Amsterdam Canal Tours You Must Try in 2025
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something magical about seeing the city from the water. Here’s a curated list of the Top 30 Best Canal Trips in Amsterdam You Must Try in 2025, complete with options for romantics, foodies, families, and adventurers.
📍 Classic Canal Tours in Amsterdam
1. Lovers Canal Cruise
A 1-hour classic canal trip ideal for first-timers. Offers audio guides in multiple languages and scenic views of iconic landmarks.
2. Blue Boat Company
Perfect for families, this tour includes kids’ audio guides with entertaining quizzes. Also provides evening cruises with optional snacks.
3. Stromma Canal Tours
One of the oldest operators offering hop-on-hop-off service, candlelight dinners, and special combo tickets with museums.
4. Gray Line Amsterdam
Known for their professional guides and open-air options. Enjoy detailed commentary on Amsterdam’s history and architecture.
5. Rederij Plas
A traditional cruise with high-quality service. Ideal for those wanting a no-frills yet authentic experience.
🌟 Luxury and Romantic Canal Experiences
6. Candlelight Cruise by Stromma
Wine, cheese, candlelight, and the calm of evening waters make this a dreamy cruise for couples.
7. Private Saloon Boat Tour
Hire a private vintage boat complete with a personal captain and catered meals. Great for anniversaries or proposals.
8. Flagship Amsterdam Private Cruise
Offers a variety of boats from ultra-modern to classic. Comes with your own crew and onboard bar.
9. Salonboot Hilda
An elegant wooden boat with polished interiors and gourmet snacks. Highly rated for its ambiance and privacy.
10. Romantic Sunset Cruise
Watch the golden hour glow over the canal bridges. Includes welcome drinks and soft background music.
🥂 Food & Drink Focused Canal Trips
11. Pizza Cruise by Lovers
Choose your favorite pizza, sip a cold drink, and enjoy city views. A hit among younger travelers and families!
12. Wine and Cheese Cruise
Float along with Dutch cheeses and fine wines. Perfect for gourmets and couples alike. 🍷🧀
13. BBQ Boat Amsterdam
Fire up the grill! You cook onboard while drifting through the canals. Ideal for groups and celebrations.
14. Brunch Cruise
Start your morning with coffee, pastries, and eggs on a leisurely 2-hour cruise.
15. High Tea on the Canal
Sip tea and nibble on cakes and sandwiches as you float by some of Amsterdam’s prettiest sights.
🤠 Unique & Themed Canal Cruises
16. Silent Disco Boat
Dance to your own beat with wireless headphones in a party boat atmosphere.
17. Comedy Canal Cruise
Laugh while you learn with onboard stand-up comedians giving funny takes on Amsterdam’s quirks.
18. Art & History Tour
Guided by local historians and artists, these tours dive into the creative soul of the city.
19. King’s Day Party Cruise
Every April 27, these boats turn into floating orange-clad celebrations with DJs and dancing.
20. Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise
Seasonal cruise in winter that takes you past incredible light art installations. A must-see!
🚤 Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Canal Tours
21. Those Dam Boat Guys
A locally run, super-casual cruise with witty commentary and zero emissions. Fun and eco-conscious.
22. Plastic Whale Cruise
Join a clean-up mission while boating! Fish for plastic and learn about sustainability.
23. Eco Boats Amsterdam
Solar-powered silent boats with private or group tour options. Eco-luxury at its best.
🌇 Best Canal Trips for Sunrise & Sunset
24. Sunrise Serenity Cruise
Ideal for morning people who want calm waters, fewer crowds, and magical lighting.
25. Golden Hour Open Boat Tour
Perfect for photography enthusiasts. Open-top boats allow unobstructed sunset shots.
👪 Family-Friendly Canal Trips
26. Blue Sky Boat for Families
Child-safe features and engaging stories tailored for kids. Great for a relaxed family outing.
27. Canal Motorboats: Self-Drive
No license required! Drive your own electric boat and enjoy a flexible, fun trip with family.
28. Pirate Boat Adventure (Kids Special)
Costumed guides, treasure maps, and pirate-themed fun make this perfect for younger children.
🌿 Budget-Friendly Canal Cruise Options
29. Classic Tour with Rederij Kooij
No-frills and affordable, these hour-long rides still offer stunning views and quality commentary.
30. Group Deals with Amsterdam Boat Experience
Big groups can score discounts on large boats, complete with party features or relaxed sightseeing.
ℹ️ Tips for Booking the Best Canal Trip
- ✉️ Book early if traveling during peak season or holidays.
- ☁️ Check the weather for open-boat tours—you don’t want a soggy ride.
- 🥊 Compare inclusions like drinks, meals, and live guides.
- 🌍 Opt for combo tickets that bundle museum entries or bike rentals.
- ♥️ Pick your vibe: luxury, casual, family-friendly, or romantic.
Sailing down ABest Canal Trips in Amsterdam isn’t just a tourist activity—it’s a window into the soul of the city. With so many styles of cruises available in 2025, you can tailor your experience to match your mood and interests.
Whether you’re savoring wine under candlelight, laughing through a comedy tour, or floating quietly with the sunrise—each canal trip in Amsterdam offers a unique memory. So, pack your camera and your sense of wonder. Your perfect boat awaits! 🚣📸
I’m Lily Wilson, a traveler, storyteller, and soul-searcher from the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii. At LilyOnTheGo.com, every journey begins with curiosity, courage, and a trusty carry-on. Travel, for me, has never been about ticking places off a bucket list. It’s about chasing sunrises in unfamiliar cities, sharing laughs with strangers who become friends.