3 best and top-selling romantic canal cruises in Amsterdam
With its picturesque canals and romantic ambiance, Amsterdam is a beloved destination for couples. Of the many canal cruises available, 3 in particular stand out as the most popular and top-selling romantic cruises to float your boat and make your trip unforgettable. Read on to find out.
- By: David Wellington
Floating down the charming canals of Amsterdam, immersed in the city’s rich history and iconic scenery, is one of the most romantic experiences for couples visiting the Netherlands. The city offers many wonderful canal cruises to choose from, but 3 options shine above the rest for their popularity, glowing reviews, and ability to sweep you away on a magical journey.
These 3 cruises are consider the most popular and best-seller romantic cruises in Amsterdam and in this article, we’ll swoon over the details and let you know all the details you need to know about these 3 best romantic cruises. Let’s go.
1. Luxury Dinner Canal Cruise from Central Station
This Luxury Dinner Cruise by Tiqets provides an excellent evening out in Amsterdam, combining a delicious multi-course dinner with panoramic views of the city’s famous canals. This 2-hour cruise boards at 7:30pm near Prins Hendrikkade in central Amsterdam. Customers are advised to check-in 15 minutes early at the LOVERS café located right at the boarding point.
Once on board, passengers can sit back and relax as the boat winds its way through Amsterdam’s scenic waterways. A guide provides interesting commentary during the cruise, pointing out highlights along the route. The chef and crew provide a quality dining experience, with a 3-course dinner included.
Diners can choose from meat, fish or vegetarian set menus. Appetizers, soup, a main course and dessert are served. The exact dishes vary based on the chosen menu. Drinks are also included, with beer, wine, and soft drinks available throughout the evening.
The dinner cruise aims to provide a touch of luxury, from the meals to the views. Most reviews are positive, with customers praising the unique vantage point the cruise offers of Amsterdam at night. The food quality also receives good marks, although some complain the vegetarian option could be better. Overall, travelers highlight it as a memorable night out, with the convenience of instant e-tickets and inclusive drinks making it very popular.
For those seeking both sightseeing and dining in an intimate, romantic setting, the Tiqets Luxury Dinner Cruise comes highly recommended. Cruising by candlelight through the evenings in Amsterdam provides views of the historic city that those on land miss out on. Price for this cruise is 79 Euro.
Pros
- Unique views of Amsterdam by canal at night that you can’t get on land
- Romantic, intimate setting for couples or small groups
- Convenience of e-tickets and inclusive drinks
- Good food and service for the price point
- Combo of dining and sightseeing
Cons
- Vegetarian menu could be better according to some reviews
- Tour commentary may not appeal to all tastes
- Schedule could be inconvenient for some travelers
- Not ideal for large groups due to boat size
2. Luxury Boat Canal Cruise with Onboard Bar
This next Luxury Canal Cruise offered by GetYourGuide provides an ideal romantic experience for travelers looking to admire Amsterdam’s picturesque waterside scenery.
This leisurely 1-hour cruise is operated by Flagship company – a premier local company using a fleet of fully electric boats. The open-top boats in warmer months and enclosed boats in winter travel along the famous old canals, passing historic landmarks and charming neighborhoods.
Live commentary from an onboard skipper enlightens passengers on the landmarks and city as you sail by sites like the iconic Skinny Bridge, ritzy Amstel Hotel, eclectic museum quarter and the 17th century Grachtengordel area. Onboard, passengers can sit back and soak up the views while enjoying drinks and snacks from the bar.
The cruise aims to provide both comfort and flexibility for sightseers. Tickets can be reserved ahead of time and paid later, with cancellations accepted up to 24 hours in advance. Boarding is available at three centrally located points – Anne Frank House, Central Station or the Rijksmuseum.
With its knowledgeable local guides, roomy vessels, on-demand bar and adaptable booking options, the Luxury Canal Cruise offers an easy yet insightful overview of Amsterdam for both first-time and repeat visitors. Over 7500 user reviews gave this cruise a score of 4.7 from 5. The price for this cruise is only 18 euro.
Pros
- Unique views of Amsterdam from the canals that you can’t get on land tours
- Informative live commentary provides history and context
- Ability to relax with drinks and snacks from the onboard bar
- Electric boats provide a smooth and quiet ride
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies
- Centrally located boarding points are convenient
- Enclosed boats in winter keep you warm
Cons
- Less interaction and sightseeing compared to walking tours
- Commentary is only in English
- Price is moderately expensive
- Not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs
- Limited capacity means tours can book up
- In open boats you are exposed to weather elements
- Tour route is fixed, no customization
3. Private Dinner Luxury Canal Cruise
For an indulgent and unique way to take in Amsterdam’s scenic canals, this Private Dinner Luxury Canal Cruise by Tiqets allows you to wine and dine while cruising. This intimate 2-hour experience is for groups up to 5 people and includes drinks, a multi-course meal delivered from top local restaurants, and a personal captain guide.
Guests can handpick their starter, main course, and drinks from Amsterdam’s best restaurants along the route. The piping hot food is delivered directly to the boat as you cruise. Sipping a glass of wine or soft drink, you can relax and enjoy the views of the canal from your private vessel. An expert captain provides commentary and guides you through the sights, enriching the experience with history and context.
With smartphone e-tickets and instant delivery, booking this exclusive cruise is quick and convenient. The small group size makes it perfect for couples, close friends, or families looking for a memorable night out together. The ability to customize your meal selections adds to the tailored feel. Cancellations and rescheduling can be done up to 48 hours in advance.
From the gourmet food to the intimate setting and smooth ride, the Private Dinner Cruise focuses on luxury. Nighttime is an ideal opportunity to admire Amsterdam’s bridges, homes, and lights reflecting on the still water. Learning about the culture and stories behind the city’s iconic canals from your captain enhances theoverall experience. For those seeking a romantic, elevated way to take in the charm of Amsterdam on a special occasion or with VIP treatment, this cruise perfectly fits the bill. The price for this cruise is 171 euro.
Pros
- Intimate small group experience for up to 5 people
- Ability to personally select food from top Amsterdam restaurants
- Hot, multi-course meal delivered freshly on board
- Includes drinks like wine or soft drinks
- Expert captain provides informative guided commentary
- Unique views of Amsterdam’s canals at night
- Convenience of e-tickets and flexible cancellation policy
- Luxurious and indulgent way to sightsee
- Customized and tailored feel
Cons
- Very expensive, especially for solo travelers
- Limited availability and group size
- Food choices dependent on restaurants along route
- Less flexibility in timing than regular canal cruises
- Requires planning ahead for food choices and group
- Additional drinks and gratuities not included
- Route may be crowded at peak dinner times
- Cold weather could impact open-air experience
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day for a romantic cruise?
The evening is ideal, especially at sunset or after dark when you can see the city lights reflecting on the water. The later it gets, the more intimate the ambience.
What kind of food and drinks are served on a romantic dinner cruise?
Options vary, but often include a multi-course meal, champagne, wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, and other couples-friendly foods. Check cruise menus in advance.
What should I wear?
Dress up in cocktail attire or something classy. Avoid casual clothes in favor of looking your best for date night. Bring a coat or blanket if needed.
How do I request a private, just for two cruise?
Booking a private charter ensures it’s only you and your partner. Specify 2 passengers when reserving. Limited availability.
What romantic extras can I add?
Some companies offer flower petals, chocolates, rose bouquets, photos, music requests, and more. Inquire about romance package add-ons.
What landmarks and sights will we see?
It varies by route, but often includes spots like the Skinny Bridge, the Amstel Hotel, canal homes, Hermitage Museum, and Amsterdam’s historic city center.
Is commentary or music provided?
Many cruises have live or recorded commentary about the sites. You can request no commentary if you just want quiet ambience.
Can we get off mid-cruise?
No, you generally stay onboard the whole time for safety reasons. Private charters allow more flexibility to stop.
Are reservations required or can we walk up?
Reservations are strongly recommended as cruises fill up, especially summer and weekends. Book early.
More useful information about Amsterdam Canal Cruises
- Read on about all type of Amsterdam Canal Cruises.
- How much are tickets, and where can you buy them? Read our guide for Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets.
- Blue Boat Company or Lovers? Check out the top cruise providers in Amsterdam!
- Canal Cruise Amsterdam at Night – Read this before you book tickets!
- Sightseeing Canal Cruise in Amsterdam or a Dinner Cruise? Which one suits you?
We are a group of travelers who love to explore and write about Amsterdam. Over the years, we have gained extensive experience with cruising over the Canals in Amsterdam. Here, you could find all the essential information you need to know about Amsterdam Canal Cruises, including the different types of cruise, prices, tickets, operating hours, departure points, and many more.